Synopsis

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

Heartwood, particularly from trees like Pterocarpus santalinus (Red Sandalwood) and Azadirachta indica (Neem), has a long-standing history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine for treating skin infections and other dermatological conditions. In Ayurvedic texts, heartwood powders or decoctions are applied topically or taken internally for their purported antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. For example, Red Sandalwood is traditionally employed to soothe skin irritation, heal wounds, and treat boils or eczema, while Neem heartwood is used for its reputed antiseptic and antimicrobial actions.

Scientific validation for these uses is limited but emerging. Some in vitro studies have demonstrated that extracts from the heartwood of certain species possess antibacterial and antifungal activities against pathogens implicated in skin infections. For instance, research has noted the presence of bioactive compounds such as santalin A and B in Red Sandalwood, and nimbidin in Neem, which may contribute to antimicrobial effects. However, clinical trials in humans are scarce, and there is insufficient high-quality evidence to strongly support the efficacy of heartwood preparations for skin infections by modern medical standards. Most of the support remains anecdotal or based on traditional usage, with a modest but growing body of preclinical evidence.

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