Micropropagation of Sandalwood (Santalum album L.)

Abstract

Sandalwood (Santalum album), well known as the “fragrant gold” of the Indian forest, where it occupies a pre-eminent position, is a very precious and valuable tree; the epitome of human excellence, it imparts fragrance even to the axe that fells it. Sandalwood has a place in a variety of peaceful human endeavors and disciplines such as literature, scriptures, religion, culture, science and technology, forestry, botany, perfumery, cosmetics, agarbattis and flavors. In addition, sandalwood has various medicinal properties and is useful in reducing vomiting, fever, thirst, and body heat. It also acts as a diaphoretic, alexipharmic, and anti-aphrodisiac. The wood is excellent for carving idols and in the manufacture of various objects of art such as richly carved boxes, cabinets, worktables, and walking sticks (Chadha 1972). Because of such useful qualities, sandalwood has fallen victim to man’s greed, and due to excessive exploitation, is facing near extinction. In addition, sandalwood is attacked by number of diseases, of which spike disease is the most destructive (Parthasarathi and Venkatesan 1982). This disease has acquired a virulent epidemic status in major sandal forestry in India. These factors call for concerted efforts for the preservation and protection of existing sandal plantation as well as alternative techniques for rapid multiplication of this elite species.