Red Sandal Wood Plant (Red Chandan)

Red Sandalwood, also known as Pterocarpus santalinus, is a deciduous tree that is native to southern India. It is highly valued for its aromatic red wood, which is used in traditional medicine, as well as for making furniture, musical instruments, and decorative items.

The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and has a dense, spreading crown. Its leaves are compound and alternate, with 5-7 leaflets. The tree produces fragrant flowers that are yellow or orange in color, and its fruit is a pod that contains one to four seeds.

The most valuable part of the Red Sandalwood tree is its heartwood, which is deep red in color and highly aromatic. The heartwood contains a compound called santalin, which gives it its distinctive color and scent. The wood is highly prized in traditional medicine and is used to treat a variety of conditions, including skin diseases, digestive disorders, and fever.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Red Sandalwood is also highly valued in the woodworking industry. The wood is prized for its durability and resistance to decay, and is used to make high-quality furniture, flooring, and decorative items.

Due to its high value, Red Sandalwood has been overexploited in many areas, leading to a decline in populations and the imposition of restrictions on its harvest and trade. As a result, Red Sandalwood is now a protected species in many parts of the world.