Sandalwood is extracted from the heartwood of the Santalum spicatum (a desert tree) by steam distillation. In Western Australian where this tree is grown there are strict controls over harvesting and replanting. This ensures regeneration and sustainability of the sandalwood industry. It means that only a tightly controlled amount of sandalwood can be harvested each year. For every tree that is harvested, 12 sandalwood seeds must be planted in its place.
Sandalwood essential oil has a rich, warm and woody aroma and apart from giving its glorious scent to a product it is often used for its soothing properties on dry skin.
Vetyver is a type of grass that is native to India but is now most widely grown for the perfumery industry in Haiti. Vetyver oil is distilled from the roots of the grass (part of the same family as Lemongrass) and imparts a warm and sensual fragrance with mildly spicy undertones.