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What Is Sandalwood Paste?

Meghan Perry
Meghan Perry

Sandalwood paste is a type of paste derived from the sandalwood herb. It comes from areas in Australia, Indonesia, India, and the Pacific Islands and is often used for the medicinal properties it possesses. One of the most common uses of sandalwood paste is for skin care as it has been shown to have many benefits. This paste can either be used on its own or mixed with other types of herbs or natural ingredients to create different types of skin care products.

One of the main uses is for acne because it has astringent and antiseptic properties. It can be used to prevent acne, to shrink already-formed pimples, and to fade and reduce the appearance of scarring caused by acne. Sandalwood paste may also reduce the appearance of stretch marks and smooth the skin. Although it removes excess oil from the skin, it doesn't contain artificial chemicals and still retains the necessary moisture so that the skin doesn't dry out.

Sandalwood paste may be used on stretch marks.
Sandalwood paste may be used on stretch marks.

Another property of sandalwood paste is that it disinfects. With this in mind, it can also be used on the skin as a cleanser; some people use it as a shower gel. It will also tighten and tone the skin as well as reduce the size of pores. Sandalwood paste also has antiseptic properties, and for this reason, it can be used to clean and treat scrapes or small cuts. As it also has anti-inflammatory properties, it is helpful in easing the itch of insect bites or rashes too.

Sandalwood paste is used in skin care and can reduce acne.
Sandalwood paste is used in skin care and can reduce acne.

While it can be used on its own, sandalwood paste can also be mixed with other ingredients to increase its effectiveness or for specific purposes. For example, mixing it with rosewater may increase its effectiveness when it is used to treat scarring or prevent acne. It may also be mixed with turmeric or coconut milk or oil. Depending on what it is mixed with, it may become more effective for certain uses over others.

Sandalwood essential oil is a highly concentrated liquid from the sandal tree.
Sandalwood essential oil is a highly concentrated liquid from the sandal tree.

Some people also use sandalwood paste to relieve or reduce headache pain. In addition, it may, in some cases, reduce fevers. For these uses, the paste is applied either to the temples or the forehead to be most effective. While negative reactions to sandalwood paste are rare, it may be a good idea to test it on a small area of skin before applying it to the entire face or affected area.

Discussion Comments

literally45

I use sandalwood paste for its aromatherapy effects. I purchase mine from the Indian grocery as they have a very affordable one imported from India.

I like the scent and using just a little bit on my forehead or under my nose calms me down. I only use it at home, so I use it in the evening or on the weekend. It's also wonderful to use during meditation because it's relaxing for the body but keeps the mind alert.

I've heard that sandalwood paste may also help with skin conditions or sinus problems but I'm not sure. I've not used it for these purposes.

stoneMason

@ZipLine-- I used an topical oil for stretch marks after pregnancy and sandalwood oil was one of the ingredients. It didn't get rid of the stretch marks completely but lightened their color and appearance. So it definitely helped. I'm sure the paste would help too but the oil might work better since it absorbs more easily.

I purchased mine online. There are usually more options online. But some health stores or organic stores may carry it too.

ZipLine

Does anyone use sandalwood paste for stretch marks? Is it effective? Where can I find this product?

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    • Sandalwood paste may be used on stretch marks.
      By: Leo Lintang
      Sandalwood paste may be used on stretch marks.
    • Sandalwood paste is used in skin care and can reduce acne.
      By: picsfive
      Sandalwood paste is used in skin care and can reduce acne.
    • Sandalwood essential oil is a highly concentrated liquid from the sandal tree.
      By: viperagp
      Sandalwood essential oil is a highly concentrated liquid from the sandal tree.
    • Sandalwood paste may be used to reduce headache pain.
      By: vadymvdrobot
      Sandalwood paste may be used to reduce headache pain.