Sandalwood

Production

Harvest

Native to New Caledonia and Vanuatu, Santalum austrocaledonicum is a slow-growing tree, valued for the aromatic richness of its wood. Unlike Indian sandalwood (Santalum album), which is becoming scarce, New Caledonian sandalwood is subject to controlled and responsible management. After each harvest, young plants are systematically replanted, ensuring the natural renewal of the resource. On the main island, eight tribes share the cultivation areas, perpetuating a local tradition closely linked to the respect of forest cycles.

Manufacturing

Our sandalwood essential oil is produced in the southwest of the archipelago, within the Wapan tribe, where a local distillery directly processes the harvested wood. Supported by the forestry control administration, the customary authorities manage the sustainability of the sandalwood supply and replant three trees for every tree used. This short supply chain values local expertise and ensures complete traceability.

Extraction process steps:

• Harvesting the wood: the trees are selectively cut according to the quotas defined by the customary authorities.

• Drying: the wood is cut into chips and then naturally dried to reach the optimal moisture content.

• Steam distillation: the chips are distilled for several hours, extracting a precious and concentrated oil.

• Decantation: the oil is separated from the distillation water, then left to mature for a few weeks to reveal its full aromatic richness.

• Filtration and quality control: each batch is filtered, analyzed, and packaged according to strict standards.

Application

New Caledonian sandalwood essential oil offers a warm and deep olfactory profile. Its creamy woody notes, similar to those of Indian sandalwood, provide a soft, sensual, and lasting signature. It is distinguished by nuances reminiscent of copahu and cedar, enhanced with milky and velvety tones.

Uses in perfumery:

• Base ingredient for woody, oriental, or floral compositions

• Natural fixative in long-lasting perfumes

• Harmonizer of amber or musky accords

Aromatherapy :

Rich in alpha-santalol and beta-santalol, sandalwood essential oil is traditionally used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and inner calm. Its unique composition gives it an olfactory softness, valued during moments of centering.

Main components:

• Alpha-santalol (39.00 to 50.00%)
• Beta santalol (15.00 to 21.00%)
• Lanceol (2.00 to 16.00%)
• Trans alpha bergamotol (3.00 to 8.00%)

Uses in aromatherapy:

• In diffusion to create an atmosphere conducive to meditation

• In massage, diluted in a carrier oil, to promote relaxation

• In synergy with other gentle oils (lavender, neroli, frankincense)

Technical and regulatory

Usage tips

Manual:

A utiliser en diffusion, de préférence à froid, à l'aide d'un appareil approprié. Ne respirer pas les huiles essentielles au-dessus de l’appareil de diffusion. Ne pas ingérer ni utiliser en application sur la peau. Tenir hors de portée des enfants. Ne pas utiliser pour les enfants de moins de 7 ans, les femmes enceintes et allaitantes, les personnes ayant des antécédents de troubles épileptiques ou convulsifs ainsi que chez les personnes asthmatiques ou allergiques aux huiles essentielles et extraits de plantes.

Consult our guides: storage and preservation methods and precautions for use