A variety of sandalwood. The name means “snake essence” because snakes were said to live in the forests of those trees because they were attracted to their scent.

One kind of Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) said to be “blue” on the inside. The name “essence of snakes” is said to come from snakes being particularly attracted to those trees.

A variety of sandalwood. The name means “snake essence” because snakes were said to live in the forests of those trees because they were attracted to their scent.

A kind of sandalwood.

A variety of sandalwood. The name means “snake essence” since snakes were said to live in the forests of those trees because they were attracted to their scent.

A variety of sandalwood. The name means “snake essence” because snakes were said to live in the forests of those trees because they were attracted to their scent.

A type of sandalwood, its name literally meaning “snake-essence sandalwood.”

A variety of sandalwood. The name means “snake essence” because snakes were said to live in the forests of those trees because they were attracted to their scent.

A name for sandalwood, or perhaps a particular species of sandalwood, that is believed to be “desired/beloved” (Skt. iṣṭa) by snakes (Skt. sarpa).

One kind of Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) said to be “blue” on the inside. The name “essence of snakes” is said to come from snakes being particularly attracted to those trees.