Aka Northern Sandalwood, Queensland Sandalwood, Desert Peach, True Sandalwood, Sandalwood, Plumwood.
Australia has around six species of sandalwood, however only Santalum lanceolatum (also called Northern Sandalwood is widespread in Western Australia’s Kimberley region and the Pilbara region through most of the Northern Territory, through to the west and north of Queensland, western New South Wales, there are also occurrences of the tree in northern South Australia and north west Victoria.) and Santalum spicatum are sold commercially. The Northern Sandalwood shrub is found mainly on sandy soils or sandplains and grows up to 7m tall. It produces a small, edible fruit that is purplish black in colour. Sandalwood trees are a partially parasitic species in the same family as mistletoe.
Considered more ecologically responsible than traditional Indian Sandalwood, Sandalwood Santalum lanceolatum is quickly becoming a popular choice among aromatherapists and perfumers alike.
Northern Sandalwood plays a different role to traditional sandalwood oils due to its unique floral aromas. When applied directly to the skin as a perfume, it offers several different floral layers, exhibiting potential in skincare formulations and for calming notes in aromatherapy.
There is documented evidence of traditional use of Northern Sandalwood in Australia, the fruit was eaten by indigenous people, the leaves were placed on a bed to assist in rheumatic conditions, the timber may have also been use by new mothers who would crouch over the aromatic smoke of Sandalwood leaves and wood chips for a period of time. Leaves and twigs were burnt to repel insects.
