Red Sandalwood (scientific name: Pterocarpus santalinus , Japanese name: Kouki Shidan, English name: Red Sandalwood) is a fine wood of the legume family found in India. Due to its exceptional strength and durability, it has been prized as a material for luxury furniture and crafts. It is particularly known as the finest material for shamisen necks. It was also once consumed in large quantities in the West as a natural dye, and is now designated as an endangered species. It is also characterized by its aromatic fragrance, similar to sandalwood.
In traditional medicine, it is used to stabilize the central nervous system, and there are records of it being used to treat impotence, frigidity, respiratory problems, and to support the physical strength and immunity of weak children.In the field of beauty, it is also used to maintain skin condition, such as dry skin and age-related changes (age spots and wrinkles).
In terms of chemical components, the heartwood has been reported to contain naphthoquinone pigments such as santalins (santalin A and B) , flavonoids , isoflavones , phenolic compounds , and terpenoids . Based on these ingredients, physiological activities such as antioxidant , anti-inflammatory , neurostabilizing , antibacterial , and skin condition support have been suggested, primarily based on basic research and information on traditional use. However, since the local name "Rakta Chandan" may not match the exact scientific name, care must be taken to identify the plant when procuring raw materials.
Characteristics of the Koukitan
- Scientific name: Pterocarpus santalinus
- Classification: Fabaceae, Padocanthus genus
- Japanese name: Koukishitan (red sandalwood)
- English name: Red Sandalwood
- Distribution: India
- Parts used: Heartwood (wood), powder (traditional use)
- Conservation status: Endangered species (please handle and procure with care)
Main ingredients (reported examples)
- Naphthoquinone dyes: Santarin A, Santarin B
- Flavonoids: flavonoids and isoflavone derivatives
- Phenolic compounds: polyphenols
- Terpenoids: Sesquiterpenes
- Other: essential oil components, trace minerals, etc.
Expected effects (beauty and health focus)
- Neurostabilizing effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining balance in the central nervous system.
- Anti-inflammatory support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to reducing the inflammatory burden by modulating the inflammatory response.
- Antioxidant support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to suppressing oxidative stress and protecting cells.
- Respiratory condition support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining respiratory condition during times of respiratory distress.
- Immune and physical strength support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining physical condition during a weak constitution or recovery period.
- Skin condition support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining skin condition, such as preventing dryness and age-related skin changes (blemishes and wrinkles).
- Antibacterial and environmental maintenance support effects: It has been reported to have growth inhibitory activity against some microorganisms.
