Why We Use New Caledonian and Australian Sandalwood; The Complexity of Sustainably Sourcing Sandalwood Essential Oil

May 13, 2024Healing Moon Farm and Ranch

When it comes to sourcing essential oils, quality and sustainability are key factors to consider. That's why we have made the conscious decision to use New Caledonian and Australian sandalwood essential oils in our products. These oils not only offer exceptional benefits but also come from sustainable sources.

What makes New Caledonian and Australian sandalwood essential oils stand out?

New Caledonian and Australian sandalwood essential oils are known for their high quality and unique aroma profile. They are prized for their therapeutic properties, making them popular choices in aromatherapy and skincare products.

Why avoid Indian sandalwood?

The Indian sandalwood tree, from which sandalwood essential oil is traditionally derived, is facing the threat of extinction due to overharvesting and illegal poaching. By choosing New Caledonian and Australian sandalwood essential oils, we are contributing to the conservation of this endangered species.

It's actually a bit more complex than that, as currently Australian is leading the front to protect and create sustainable plantations for Indian sandalwood. However, to ensure we are meeting our sustainability commitment, we have decided to only use New Caledonian and Australian sandalwood oils until conservation efforts make more headway for Indian sandalwood. 

Challenges in sourcing sustainable sandalwood

Procuring sandalwood sustainably is a complex task due to the prevalence of poaching and misinformation in the sandalwood market. It requires careful monitoring and verification of sources to ensure that the oils we use are ethically and sustainably sourced.

By opting for New Caledonian and Australian sandalwood essential oils, we are not only offering our customers high-quality products but also supporting the conservation of sandalwood trees. Sustainability is at the core of our values, and we are committed to making responsible choices in our sourcing practices.

If you'd like to take a deep dive into the harvesting, production, and sustainability of the different Sandalwood essential oils, check out the links below:

Safeguarding sandalwood: A review of current and emerging tools to support sustainable and legal forestry

How Australia is creating a long-term sustainable future for one of the world’s most precious essential oils - sandalwood.

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