Synopsis

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

Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) has been traditionally used by Indigenous Australians for a variety of medicinal purposes, including treatment of wounds and skin infections. More recently, scientific studies have investigated its essential oil for antimicrobial properties. Laboratory research has demonstrated that Australian Sandalwood oil exhibits moderate antibacterial activity against a range of Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The activity is primarily attributed to the presence of α- and β-santalol, which can disrupt bacterial cell membranes. However, when compared to standard antibiotics or the more widely studied Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album), the efficacy of Australian Sandalwood is less pronounced. Most evidence is limited to in vitro (test tube) studies, with a lack of robust clinical trials assessing its effectiveness in treating bacterial infections in humans. While the traditional use aligns somewhat with these findings, the current scientific evidence to support the use of Australian Sandalwood as a treatment for bacterial infections is still preliminary and not sufficient for strong recommendations. Thus, while there is scientific interest and some supporting data, the overall evidence is moderate and primarily preclinical.

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