Pterocarpus santalinus L. f.

Pterocarpus santalinus L.f. (Fabaceae) is commonly known as “Lal Chandan” or “Sandal Surkh” (Red sanders). It is an endangered species, a tree (declared by IUCN) endemic to the southern part of Eastern Ghats of India, specifically Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh and adjoining state. P. santalinus, though restricted to narrow geographical terrains, is introduced and successfully grown in many other areas. Red sander wood yields santalin, a natural dye, which is used as a colouring substance, particularly in the preparations of pharmaceutical products and food items. In the traditional Unani system of medicine, Sandal Surkh is an astringent, bitter, blood purifier, cardiotonic, constipative, coolant (mild), demulcent, exhilarant, refrigerant and sedative agent used to treat chronic cough, excessive thirst and hiccups, leucorrhoea menorrhagia, spermatorrhoea, dysuria and rashes. The logs are used to make toys, furniture, carvings, antique products and musical instruments. Its distinctive attractive red coloured timber, along with its superior wood qualities have led to its frequent illegal harvesting which is the primary reason for its endangered status. A comprehensive review of the ethnobotany of Pterocarpus santalinus and other relevant information is discussed in the current chapter.