Santalum album, commonly known as sandalwood, is a very valuable and aromatic evergreen tree species belonging to the family Santalaceae. It is primarily found in the Indian subcontinent as well as other regions of southern Asia, including Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Considered as a small to medium-sized tree, it typically reaches a height of 4 to 9 meters and has a sturdy stem covered with rough, grayish-brown bark.
The term "Santalum album" also refers to the highly prized heartwood of this tree, which possesses a unique fragrance and is widely used for its exceptional scent in perfumery, religious ceremonies, and traditional medicines. The heartwood has a pale yellow to golden color, and its fragrance is characterized as warm, soft, and woody.
Due to its pleasant aroma and various therapeutic properties, Santalum album has been in high demand for centuries. The extraction of sandalwood oil, obtained from the heartwood through a steam distillation process, is an essential aspect of the sandalwood industry. This oil is incorporated into numerous products, including perfumes, soaps, cosmetics, and candles.
However, the popularity and commercial exploitation of Santalum album have led to overharvesting and illegal trade, resulting in significant decline and endangerment of the species. Consequently, many countries have introduced conservation measures and strict regulations to safeguard these valuable trees and preserve their natural habitats.
Overall, Santalum album is an iconic tree with a rich history and is treasured for its fragrant heartwood, which possesses cultural, commercial, and medicinal significance.
