Raktacandana (Raktacandana (Raktanga, Kshudrachandana, Raktasara, Raktabija, Raktapushpa, Sukomala, Raktabija, Raktarka))
Raktacandana (Pterocarpus santalinus), also known as Red Sandalwood or Red Sanders, is a valuable Ayurvedic herb recognized for its cooling, wound-healing, and skin-toning properties. It is traditionally used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes and is native to southern India.
Botanical name: Pterocarpus santalinus. Also known as: Raktachandan, Raktasaara, Raktanga, Ranjana, Harichandan, Tamra Sara, Tamradru, Kshudra Chandana, Lal Chandan, Red Sandalwood, Red Sanders, Erra Chandanam, Shivappu Chandanam, Kempu Gandha, Chuvanna Chandanam, Rakthachandanam, Raktachandan, Pterocarpus Santalinus, Ratanjali, Raktchandanam, Shen chandanam, Atti, Sivappu chandanam, Lal chandan, Ruby wood.
Properties
Antifungal, Antibacterial, Anticholinesterase, Antidiabetic, Antipyretic, Anti-inflammatory, Anticancer, Antiulcer, Antioxidant, Hepatoprotective
Dosage
General: It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using Raktacandana. Powder (Choorna): 3-6 grams per day in divided doses, 1/2 to 1 level teaspoon (2-3 grams) twice daily with warm water. Preferably after meals if Pitta predominates or before meals in Kapha cases, 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon with warm water once or twice daily. Children (6-12 years): 500mg to 1g powder once daily with honey or a pinch of jaggery. Elderly: Start with 1g/day, split into two doses. Tablets: 2 tablets of 500mg twice daily with honey or jaggery for skin eruptions. Decoction (Kashaya): 50-100 ml. 5 g in 100 ml water, boiled down to 25 ml, taken once daily. Oil (Taila): 2-25 drops. Syrup/Arishtam: 10-20 ml twice daily with lukewarm water. Follow the label instructions. Pregnancy: A pinch (1 gram) of red sandalwood powder can be added to a cup of milk and administered to pregnant women for 2-4 weeks, specifically for threatened abortion or unexplained bleeding. This should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Madhura (Sweet)
- Virya: ["Sheeta (Cooling)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (Pungent)"]
Benefits
- Raktaprasadana (Blood purifier)
- Varnya (Improves complexion)
- Dahahara (Relieves burning sensation)
- Trishnahara (Relieves thirst)
Traditional uses
- Raktavikara (Blood disorders)
- Pittajanya vikara (Pitta-related disorders)
- Daha (Burning sensation)
- Trishna (Excessive thirst)
- Kushta (Skin diseases)
- Vrana (Wounds)
- Acne
- Heat Rash
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: balancing
Preparation methods
- Choorna (Powder): The heartwood is ground into a fine powder. Traditional methods involve grinding on a granite stone with medicated water and sun-drying. Modern mills use stainless steel pulverizers under an inert atmosphere.
- Paste: Mix the powder with water, rose water, honey, yogurt, or milk to form a paste for external application.
- Decoction: Boil 5g of the herb in 100ml of water until it reduces to 25ml.
- Oil: Red sandalwood oil (Taila) can be used.
- Other Forms: It is also available in tablets, syrups (Arishtam) and as part of other herbal formulations.
Contraindications
- Gastrointestinal Discomfort: High doses may cause mild nausea or diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
- Hypotension: Individuals on blood pressure-lowering drugs should monitor their readings, as heartwood extracts may further lower blood pressure.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Due to a lack of sufficient clinical data, use during pregnancy and lactation should be under professional supervision and at minimal dosages (less than 1 g/day).
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience skin allergies or irritation. A patch test is recommended before extensive topical use. Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
- Amenorrhea or Oligomenorrhea: It is not recommended in amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea.
Side effects
- Generally safe in small amounts, but it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before use.
- Can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, redness, itching, or rash in some people. Perform a patch test before extensive use.
- The powder can stain clothing and surfaces.
- May cause mild digestive issues or stomach cramps.
- Limited data, so best to avoid or use only under medical supervision during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Not recommended in amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea.
Interactions
- Some Ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine. It is advised to take allopathic medicine first, wait 30 minutes, and then take the Ayurvedic medicine.
- Due to potential blood-thinning properties, caution is advised if taking anticoagulants.
- People on medication for high blood pressure or diabetes should consult a doctor before taking red sandalwood.
- Generally goes well with dietary supplements like multivitamins and Omega 3 fatty acids, but consult a doctor if taking multiple products.
- Shankapulshpi, another Ayurvedic preparation, may decrease phenytoin levels, diminishing its efficacy.
- Herbal supplements, in general, can potentially interact with various medications, including those with a narrow therapeutic index like digoxin, cyclosporine, and warfarin.
- It is essential to inform your healthcare providers about all medicines and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Clinical evidence
Clinical trials and case studies indicate that Pterocarpus santalinus may be effective for tension-type headaches and skin conditions like acne and heat rash. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed a significant reduction in TTH intensity. Clinical case series documented lesion reduction in skin conditions. Further research is needed.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Raktaprasadana (Blood purifier)
- Varnya (Improves complexion)
- Dahahara (Relieves burning sensation)
- Trishnahara (Relieves thirst)
Classical clinical indications
- Raktavikara (Blood disorders)
- Pittajanya vikara (Pitta-related disorders)
- Daha (Burning sensation)
- Trishna (Excessive thirst)
- Kushta (Skin diseases)
- Vrana (Wounds)
- Acne
- Heat Rash