Patchouli Pogostemon patchouli

Extraction Method:

Steam Distilled

Part of Plant: 

Leaves

Country of Origin: 

Indonesia

Growing Method:

Cultivated

Description:

Patchouli is a very fragrant herb with soft oval leaves and square stems.  It grows from 2 to 3 feet in height and provides an unusual odour that is nonetheless characteristic of patchouli when the leaves are rubbed.

Colour: 

Deep Golden Brown

Aromatic Description: 

Patchouli has a warm, earthy aroma with fresh fruit - like tones.

Strength of Aroma:

Medium

Blends well with:

Sandalwood, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Rose, Sweet Orange, Cassia, Myrrh, Opopanax, and Clary Sage.

Aromatic Note:

Base

Consistency:

Medium to Thick

Common Uses: 

Patchouli is recognized by aromatherapists as being effective for combating nervous disorders, helping with acne. 

Patchouli reduces appetite, water retention, and exhaustion. A cell rejuvenator and antiseptic, it treats dandruff, sores, acne, and skin irritations like eczema, athlete’s foot, inflamed, cracked or mature skin, inflammation, and dandruff. 

Patchouli counters nervousness and depression by putting problems into perspective and releasing pent-up emotions. It has the ability to bring the body and mind together if one is feeling disjointed.  It is also an aphrodisiac.

In the perfumery industry, it is interesting to note that Patchouli improves with age, and that the aged product is what is preferred over freshly harvested. 

In aromatherapy, Patchouli is an excellent fixative that can help extend other, more expensive oils.

Therapeutic Actions: 

Antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic, antimicrobial, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, antitoxic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, digestive, diuretic, febrifuge, fungicidal, nerving, prophylactic, stimulating and tonic agent.

Works with the following Body Systems:

Integumentary, Nervous, Skin care

Best form of Application:

To skin - Massage, compress, bath, ointment, skin care

Inhalation – direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporiser

Shelf life: 

Users can expect a shelf life of 6 Months to 2 Years with proper storage conditions (cool, out of direct sunlight).

Cautions: 

None known

History:

Before it became popular in Europe, Indian shawls and Indian ink were identified by the unique patchouli odour.