Hawaiian Sandalwood Hawaiian Sandalwood (USA)

‘Iliahi Heritage in Hawai‘i

‘Iliahi (Hawaiian Sandalwood) has long been celebrated for its rich aroma and cultural significance, thriving in the volcanic soils of Hawai‘i. However, the ‘iliahi trade holds a complex and sensitive place in history. In the early 1800s, high demand in international markets brought economic activity but also exploitation, as Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) were compelled to harvest under harsh conditions. Overharvesting and land mismanagement degraded the ecosystem. Today, dōTERRA honors this history through its commitment to the care, protection, and long-term survival of ‘Iliahi.

Our ‘Iliahi comes from the western coast of the island of Hawai‘i specifically the Kealakekua Mountain Reserve (KMR). Cattle ranching and logging over the past 150 years hindered the regrowth of forests. Today, about 9,000 acres of the reserve’s total acreage are under conservation to protect it from further overharvesting. A forest management plan has been approved and is overseen by the State of Hawai‘i. We estimate that KMR will be the largest reforestation effort in all of Hawai‘i where the team is planting a variety of native species, including ‘Iliahi, Naio, and Koa. To date, over 600,000 native trees have been planted at KMR.

Harvest and Production Process

Sandalwood is a hemiparasitic plant; this means that it connects to the roots of other plants for its water and nutrients. The highest concentration of essential oil is in the heartwood, or center, of the tree. The ratio of heartwood to sapwood increases substantially as trees age, so older trees have the highest oil content. To ensure a sustainable harvesting program, it is critical to allow trees to age. It is also important to continue actively planting to ensure excess replenishment of these Sandalwood forests.

At KMR, ‘Iliahi trees are sustainably managed under a regulated plan. Harvesting is limited to mature trees, fulfilling their ecological roles, while dead or fallen trees are freely sourced to minimize environmental impact.

The harvested wood is chipped and distilled using traditional steam methods. Steam separates the essential oil, which rises to the surface as the water-oil mixture cools. This careful process preserves the prized oil while protecting the health of the forest.

Comprehensive Impact

Our efforts at KMR extend beyond reforestation, empowering the local community as environmental stewards and cultural preservationists through a partnership with Hiki Ola, a non-profit organization fostering education, cultural heritage, and sustainable land management.

• Educational Programs: Collaborating with Ke Kula ‘o ‘Ehunuikaimalino, a Hawaiian language immersion school, to support youth education.
• Cultural Preservation: Partnering with Hālau Ka‘eaikahelelani to teach hula traditions and designate parts of the reserve for cultivating plants essential to hula.
• Reforestation Activities: Hosting Wellness Advocates (Reforestation Advocates) to participate in tree planting, nursery tours, and distillery visits.

Through these initiatives, dōTERRA supports both the regeneration of ‘Iliahi forests and the well-being of Kānaka Maoli people and culture.