Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Heartwood, derived from the innermost part of the trunk of mature trees such as sandalwood (Santalum album) or teak (Tectona grandis), has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine. In these traditions, heartwood extracts and powders have been used topically to manage various skin conditions, including eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis). The rationale is based on heartwood’s reputed anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties. For example, sandalwood oil and paste are well-known Ayurvedic remedies for inflamed or itchy skin, and are sometimes included in preparations for eczema and similar dermatoses.

However, the scientific evidence supporting heartwood’s efficacy in treating eczema is limited and mostly anecdotal. A small number of laboratory and animal studies suggest that certain heartwood-derived compounds (such as santalols from sandalwood) have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which could theoretically benefit eczema-prone skin by reducing inflammation and the risk of secondary infections. Nonetheless, there are very few well-designed clinical trials testing heartwood preparations specifically for eczema in humans, and existing studies are often of low quality or focus on general skin irritation rather than eczema per se. Thus, while traditional use is well-established, scientific validation is weak, and more rigorous studies are needed.

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