Red sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus)
What red sandalwood is, how classical Indian texts describe it, what published studies show and where they fall short, how to use it safely, and which GraceYes products contain it.
Names
Lal Chandan (Hindi); Raktachandana (Sanskrit). The part used is the heartwood.
Classical Indian view
API Vol III lists it as Pittahara (reduces pitta) and Vishaghna, with uses in Raktadosha (blood disorders) and Vrana. Note that the "Chandana" in Charaka's Varnya group means white sandalwood, not red.
Key compounds
Santalins A and B, pterostilbene, savinin.
What studies show
- It protected skin fibroblasts from UVB and lowered collagen-breaking MMP-1; this was lab work (PubMed).
- It reduced eczema-like lesions in mice (PubMed).
- Santalin inhibited melanin production in cells (PubMed).
Limits
There are no human cosmetic trials.
Safety
Contact dermatitis has been reported (PubMed). The tree is IUCN Endangered and listed in CITES Appendix II, so use legally sourced material only (Down To Earth).
GraceYes products that contain it
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Studies are linked so you can read them yourself. Always patch-test a new product, and speak to a doctor about any skin or scalp condition.