Sandalwood Sustainable Harvesting Methods

Sandalwood oil is one of the most valuable essential oils globally, extracted primarily from trees of the genus Santalum (Indian sandalwood, Santalum album) and Osyris (African sandalwood, Osyris lanceolata). The oil is highly sought after in the fragrance, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries due to its unique woody aroma and numerous therapeutic properties. The global sandalwood oil market was valued at approximately $150 million in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5% from 2023 to 2030. Sandalwood oil is composed mainly of sesquiterpenes, with α-santalol (41–55%) and β-santalol (16–24%) being the key components responsible for its fragrance and medicinal benefits. Traditionally, sandalwood oil has been used in Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and aromatherapy for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and sedative properties. Due to increasing demand, commercial production of sandalwood oil has expanded beyond its native regions, leading to conservation concerns as wild populations continue to decline.