Sandalwood has been cherished since ancient times as a fragrant wood, produced in tropical and subtropical regions such as India, Indonesia, Fiji and Australia. The distinctive sweet aroma derived from sandalwood is used in Buddhist and Hindu ceremonies as well as traditional herbal medicines. In Japan, it is known as one of the most precious fragrant woods along with agarwood and kyara. Also called sandalwood, its long-lasting fragrance is widely appreciated around the world in the form of essential oils and incense.
Sandalwood was introduced to Japan in the Nara period (710-794). At that time, sandalwood was highly valued as an incense in Buddhist ceremonies, and its fragrance arrived in Japan along with the spread of Buddhism. As Japan’s own kodo (the art of incense making) developed, sandalwood became an indispensable ingredient in incense implements and preparations, and was loved as one of the noble fragrances along with agarwood and kyara.
In the aristocratic culture of the Heian period (794-1185), sandalwood was also used in a game called ‘korimono-matching’ or ‘korimono-matching’, and the culture of enjoying different fragrances flourished. Sandalwood has a gentle, elegant sweetness, and its calming fragrance is said to soothe people’s hearts.
Sandalwood has a distinctive deep sweetness and softness, with a warm, woody aroma. This fragrance is known for its relaxing effect, calming the mind and relieving anxiety and tension. The scent of sandalwood is believed to enhance meditation and mental focus and it has been used in spiritual practices and meditative settings.
In addition, sandalwood is also used as a medicinal herb, and in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, sandalwood is thought to cool body heat and bring stability to the mind. For these reasons, sandalwood is valued not only for its fragrance, but also for its benefical effects on health and beauty.
In modern times, the scent of sandalwood remains popular for its relaxation effects, stress relief, and enhancement of concentration. Sandalwood essential oil is often used in aromatherapy, yoga and massage, where its pleasant aroma provides deep soothing effects. Furthermore, sandalwood’s long-lasting fragrance makes it a valuable addition to perfumes and fragrance products, making it an easy for refreshment and daily relaxation.
There are many ways to incorporate sandalwood into your daily routine. In addition to the traditional method of burning sandalwood in an incense burner, there are various products that incorporate the scent of sandalwood into everyday life, such as sandalwood incense sticks, aromatic oils, soaps and even body creams. Enjoying the gentle fragrance can create a time of healing and refreshment for the mind and body.
The scent of sandalwood has been cherished by people since ancient times, and even today, it is a familiar fragrance that brings healing and tranquility to many. By incorporating this historical scent into everyday life, one can experience a soothing sense of peace and enjoy enriching moments of relaxation.
