Santalum album, or Indian sandalwood, is a small tropical tree that is widely known for its fragrant and medicinal qualities. It has been used in traditional medicine for over two thousand years for common colds, bronchitis, and skin disorders. The heartwood of the tree is the only part used for its fragrance and is yellow-brown in color. The sapwood is white or yellow and is used to make turnery items. Due to its high value, sandalwood has been extensively harvested, leading to the species being recognized as vulnerable by the IUCN. Legislation protects the species, cultivation is researched and developed, and the Indian government has banned the export of the timber to reduce over-harvesting. Sandalwood oil has been shown to have a wide range of medicinal properties, including anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant potentials. With a viable harvest after 40 years, Santalum album is a widely cultivated plant and a culturally significant resource.