Sandalwood

Santalum album — true Indian sandalwood — has been the cornerstone of Ayurvedic skin rituals for 4,000 years. The heartwood contains α-santalol and β-santalol, both well-documented anti-inflammatories with antibacterial activity against acne-triggering C. acnes and P. aeruginosa. Classical Ayurveda uses it in ubtan (bridal pastes with turmeric and chickpea flour), face masks, and cooling skin preparations for inflamed acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The essential oil is phototoxic at higher concentrations — powder and water extracts are safer. Forest Essentials, Kama Ayurveda, and Ranavat all centre sandalwood in their luxury Ayurvedic lines. Genuine heritage ingredient with real evidence; watch for adulteration because true Indian sandalwood is CITES-protected and endangered (Australian sandalwood is the common substitute).