Chandana (चन्दन), commonly known as Sandalwood, is one of the most revered herbs in Ayurveda for its cooling, soothing, and complexion-enhancing properties. Derived from the heartwood of the Santalum album tree, Chandana has been used since Vedic times in beauty rituals, spiritual practices, and skin care. The word Chandana originates from the Sanskrit root “Chadi”, meaning to please or soothe, perfectly reflecting its effect on both skin and mind.
In Ayurvedic dermatology, Chandana is classified as Varnya (complexion enhancer), Pittahara (Pitta pacifying), and Tvachya (skin nourishing). It is highly effective in calming inflammation, acne, prickly heat, sunburn, pigmentation, and emotional stress that reflects on the skin.
Botanical Profile
- Botanical Name: Santalum album
- Common Names: Sandalwood, White Sandalwood, Chandana (Sanskrit)
- Family: Santalaceae
- Part Used: Heartwood (powder and oil)
- Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Madhura (sweet)
- Virya (Potency): Sheeta (cooling)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
- Guna (Qualities): Snigdha (unctuous), Laghu (light)
- Doshic Action: Pacifies Pitta, mildly balances Kapha; can aggravate Vata if overused in dry climates
Skin Benefits of Chandana
1. Pitta-Soothing & Anti-Inflammatory
Chandana is one of the most effective natural ingredients for reducing skin heat, redness, and irritation caused by Pitta aggravation. It soothes:
- Acne and pustular breakouts
- Sunburns and photodamage
- Allergic rashes and prickly heat
- Rosacea and skin sensitivity
2. Brightens Complexion (Varnya)
As a varnya dravya, Chandana improves the skin’s natural glow by reducing dullness, tanning, and pigmentation. It is commonly used in bridal rituals and glow therapies.
3. Antiseptic and Astringent
Chandana is naturally antibacterial, helping to cleanse pores, prevent breakouts, and reduce excess oil on the skin without stripping moisture.
4. Aromatherapeutic and Stress-Relieving
Its soft, woody aroma has a calming effect on the mind, supporting Sattva (clarity) and reducing stress-related skin issues like acne or inflammation. It is often used in meditative and spiritual skincare rituals.
5. Anti-Aging and Skin Toning
Its antioxidant qualities help reduce early signs of aging, including fine lines, pigmentation, and loss of skin firmness.
Classical References
- Charaka Samhita: Listed under Varnya Mahakashaya (complexion enhancers), Pittahara, and Tvachya (skin-nourishing) herbs.
- Sushruta Samhita: Applied in lepa for burns, wounds, skin diseases, and inflammatory conditions.
- Bhaishajya Ratnavali: Prescribed in formulations like Chandanadi Taila, Usheerasava, and Chandanadi Vati for skin and urinary Pitta disorders.
External Applications in Skincare
Chandana is one of the most popular external skincare ingredients in Ayurveda:
- Face Packs / Lepas: Pure sandalwood powder mixed with rose water or milk for cooling acne, tanning, and blemishes
- Chandanadi Taila: Classical cooling oil for skin inflammation, acne, and pigmentation
- Sandalwood Soap & Creams: Used for daily Pitta-balancing skincare routines
- Steam Infusions: Aromatic sandalwood water used for facial steaming and stress relief
Internal Use in Ayurveda
Though more commonly used externally, Chandana is also taken internally for blood purification and Pitta balance:
- Chandanadi Vati: Tablet formulation used in heat-related conditions, acne, burning sensations
- Usheerasava: Cooling fermented tonic with Chandana and vetiver for skin inflammation
- Kwatha (Decoction): From Chandana bark, used to reduce fever, inflammation, and acne from within
Caution: Internal use should be guided by an Ayurvedic practitioner. Overuse may dry the body or aggravate Vata if not balanced with unctuous carriers.
Ayurvedic Skincare Rituals with Chandana
| Concern | Ritual Remedy |
|---|---|
| Sunburn | Chandana + aloe vera gel pack |
| Acne & Heat Rashes | Chandana + neem + rose water |
| Pigmentation | Chandana + manjishtha + milk face mask |
| Bridal Glow | Chandana + turmeric + saffron ubtan |
| Sensitive Skin | Chandana + yashtimadhu + cucumber juice |
Related Terms
- Pitta Skin
- Chandanadi Taila
- Varnya Dravyas
- Manjishtha
- Tvachya Mahakashaya
- Ayurvedic Bridal Ubtans
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use sandalwood powder daily on my face?
Yes, but use it with hydrating carriers like rose water or milk. Overuse in dry skin may aggravate Vata due to its cooling and drying nature.
Q2: Is Chandana good for acne-prone skin?
Absolutely. Chandana helps reduce inflammation, redness, oiliness, and bacterial growth, making it ideal for acne.
Q3: Does sandalwood lighten skin?
Chandana doesn’t bleach the skin but improves tone and clarity by removing heat, toxins, and pigmentation.
Q4: Which skin types benefit most from Chandana?
Pitta skin types benefit the most, but it can be adapted for Kapha (with warming herbs) and Vata (when used with oils or milk).