Agarwood vs Sandalwood: Not the Same Family

Fundamentally different

Agarwood (Thymelaeaceae) is resinous wood from a wounded tree; sandalwood (Santalaceae) is fragrant from its own heartwood oils—no wound needed. One "falls ill to become scent", the other is "born fragrant".

Scent and use

Sandalwood is sweet, warm, milky—common in sticks and carving. Agarwood is more complex, cool-sweet or medicinal—best for tasting and blending. Don’t confuse them. Science summary.