The Neuroscience of Indian Sandalwood: How Its Aroma Affects Mood, Cognition, and Sleep

For centuries, Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) has been prized not only for its rich, woody fragrance but also for its spiritual, therapeutic, and medicinal uses. In recent years, neuroscience has begun to prove what ancient traditions have long held to be true: the aroma of Indian sandalwood has a tangible effect on mood, cognition, and sleep quality. But how exactly does this precious oil influence our brain? This article explores both emerging and historical scientific research detailing the unique effects Indian sandalwood has on mood and cognition.

Understanding the Neurological Pathways of Aroma

Our sense of smell is deeply tied to the brain’s limbic system, the area responsible for regulating emotions, memory, and arousal. When we inhale aromatic molecules, they travel through the olfactory bulb, which connects directly to the amygdala and hippocampus—regions involved in emotional processing and memory formation. This unique neural pathway helps explain why certain scents can trigger vivid emotions or memories almost instantly.

A 2016 study on the role of odor evoked memory concludes that olfactory stimuli bypass the brain’s usual relay systems and directly engage areas involved in mood and memory. Research has found that odour-evoked memories are often more emotionally powerful and longer-lasting than memories triggered by other senses, making aroma an effective tool for influencing psychological well being.

The Impact of Indian sandalwood on psychological health

Spending time in nature is known to trigger dopamine and serotonin release, promoting feelings of pleasure and relaxation. Interestingly, certain natural aromas, like those of Indian sandalwood, appear to mimic this effect. 

Topaz Shrestha, PhD Researcher at the University of Cork’s School of Applied Psychology, emphasises the role of sensory experiences in supporting both psychological and physical health. “Environmental psychology looks at the relationship between humans and the external world. Natural scents, like sandalwood, can bring a sense of connection to nature, even in urban or indoor settings,” says Shrestha. 

Shrestha notes that this type of emotional balance mirrors what we experience when we feel connected to nature, “People who have a stronger sense of connection to nature often report higher levels of life satisfaction, reduced anxiety, and greater vitality. 

Research suggests that odours can evoke emotional memories and affect brain regions involved in reward and emotional processing, similar to the experience of being outdoors. 

Inhaling sandalwood’s warm, grounding aroma can mimic  the same calming and mood-lifting effects associated with time spent in nature by activate the brain’s reward pathways. 

“Natural scents such as Indian sandalwood offer an accessible way to encourage this sense of connectedness and support emotional wellbeing in daily life.”she says.

Indian Sandalwood and Mood Enhancement

Indian sandalwood contains the naturally occurring compound alpha-santalol, which has been found to exert calming and mood-stabilising effects when inhaled. The inhalation of Indian sandalwood and alpha-santalol odours has been associated with measurable physiological changes, such as increased skin conductance and pulse rate, indicators of heightened arousal, but paradoxically, subjects also report subjective feelings of calmness and improved mood. 

This combination of physiological arousal and relaxation suggests that sandalwood helps the body enter a balanced state where one is alert but emotionally regulated, making it ideal for mood enhancement and stress management.

Indian sandalwood’s Impact on Sleep

Beyond its mood-stabilising effects, the scent of Indian sandalwood also supports sleep by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to lower heart rate and promote relaxation in preparation for rest. By helping to reduce  anxiety and alleviate stress, which are common barriers to falling and staying asleep, Indian sandalwood has demonstrated its ability to enhance overall sleep quality.

Cognitive Benefits: Focus, Clarity, and Mental Performance

In a 2023 study examining the effects of inhaling Indian sandalwood  essential oil, participants reported increased attentiveness and improved task performance. The research suggested that sandalwood oil contributed to heightened clarity and reduced mental fatigue, without overstimulation or agitation.

Incorporating Indian Sandalwood into Your Daily Routine

Indian sandalwood has long been used to promote calm, focus, and relaxation. Incorporating it into daily life can be as simple as diffusing a few drops of pure Indian sandalwood essential oil with the Heartwood’s Sensational Set, to create a peaceful environment for meditation or winding down. 

Using Heartwood's King of Woods Indian sandalwood infused body wash and lotion set, especially in a warm, steamy bathroom, offers a gentle way to start the morning feeling grounded or to relax before bed. For quiet moments, burning Indian Sandalwood Incense adds a calming presence to reflection, yoga, or evening rituals, helping to create a sense of stillness and ease.

Conclusion

Indian sandalwood offers more than just an appealing scent. Modern neuroscience confirms its effects on mood, cognitive function, and sleep, validating ancient traditions that have long harnessed its therapeutic properties. Whether to enhance focus, promote emotional balance, or support restful sleep, Indian sandalwood remains a powerful natural tool for holistic wellbeing.