Sandalwood smuggling on the rise

Sandalwoods are medium-size, fragrant, exotic trees found in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Australia, Indonesia, and the Pacific Islands. In India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka it is called Chandan. However, it is also a threatened species. Some countries regard the sandal oil trade as ecologically harmful as it encourages overharvesting. Although sandalwood trees in India and Nepal are government-owned and their harvest is controlled, many trees are illegally cut down. Sandalwood oil prices have risen dramatically, and therefore the illegal trade has increased.

The illegal trade route from India to China via Nepal by smugglers is being continually monitored by police in Nepal who often seize red sandalwood near the border with Tibet.

Sandalwood oil is commonly used in the cosmetic industry and sandalwood paste is known for its healing qualities. For acne, the Nepalis make a paste of half a teaspoon each of turmeric powder and sandalwood powder in a little water and apply it to the face or area. Dull complexions, they say, look better after drinking half a teaspoon of sandalwood powder with one cup of milk daily. To treat excessive sweating, mix one part of dry sandalwood powder in one part of rose water and apply over affected area. To treat upset stomachs, add one teaspoon of sandalwood powder to a cup of water and add to the resultant emulsion the following: one teaspoon each of sugar, honey and the leftover water when rice is boiled.

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