Patchouli Essential Oil (10 ml)
Patchouli's Story
Patchouli is a very interesting character with a lot of contrasting traits. There is an old, ancient air about her, and Patchouli is actually quite balanced with her feet very well grounded but with aspirations shooting up into the sky.
She has such an enigmatic personality that she seems to have borrowed features from all her oil siblings and friends. She can be intense, persistent, fiery, yet refreshing, pungent, citrusy. It’s like the Creator couldn’t decide what distinctive features and aromas to throw in- but luckily the indecision turned Patchouli into a very charming cocktail who has something for everyone.
Patchouli personality has a tendency to stick to projects and has the drive and persistence required to see tasks come to fruition. She also has the ability to delve into the human psyche, which is why she makes the best negotiator, psychologist and even investigative journalist. When around Patchouli you may realise that her late-night-radio-jockey voice can make you feel sedated and euphoric, as if you are in a trance or relaxing meditation that you don’t want to come out of. So whether you need someone to help you understand some part of yourself, or simply want to be lulled to sleep, you know who to go to!
Aroma
Rich, intense, earthy, woody, sweet and herbaceous. Smells slightly like bitter chocolate and wine.
Clinical Applications
Anxiety and depression: The calming and uplifting aroma of Patchouli makes this a great addition in blends formulated to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. Inhaling the aroma of Patchouli instills a sense of balance so your mind and emotions are in sync with the physical world. Inhaling the aroma also reduces spontaneous activity, helping you go to sleep faster and stay asleep longer (Ito and Ito 2011).
Immunostimulant: Multiple studies have indicated that Patchouli has different properties that act together to boost the immune system. Patchoulol, a major component of Patchouli, offers immune support by its powerful immunomodulatory action (Liao et al. 2013). Patchouli alcohol facilitates recovery by its actions against strains of influenza virus (Ghule et al. 2006; Kiohara et al. 2012; Wu et al. 2013). In addition to immune-boosting activity, Patchouli also offers resistance to bacterial infection (Hu et al. (2006). Patchouli is an excellent addition to immune-boosting blends and works well with Palmarosa.
Musculoskeletal: Patchouli’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions make this a great addition to blends for relief from inflammation, muscle spasms, pain, and stress-related aches. Patchouli’s anti-inflammatory properties have been proven in several studies (Raharjo and Fatchiyah 2013; Jeong et al. 2013; Li et al. 2014; Su et al. 2016).
Skin: Patchouli has long been used in Ayurvedic, Chinese and Greek traditional medicines for its numerous skin healing properties. Topical application of Patchouli moisturizes and cools the skin, reducing dryness, eczema, sores, and inflammation. It aids in the healing of wounds, promotes skin healing, helps fade scar tissue and reduces skin disorders by its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial actions Holmes (1997). Patchouli is also an effective insect repellant.
Safety & Dilution
Patchouli is non-toxic and non-irritating.
Only use diluted on the skin (dilution ca be done in any carrier like coconut, olive oil, lotion etc). See here DILUTION GUIDELINES according to age or ailment.
Discontinue in case of any skin irritation. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears and sensitive areas.
Keep out of reach of children. Do not apply on the skin of children younger than 2 years old. If pregnant, nursing or under medical care please consult physician. Do not use internally, unless directed by a licensed aromatherapist or physician.
Use with caution around pets. When diffusing in the room make sure the door is open so that the animal can leave in case of discomfort.
Shelf Life & Storage
Shelf life: 20 years
We recommend storing oils in a cool, dark and dry area away from direct sunlight. Keep the cap closed tightly to avoid oxygen exposure. Oils that are past expiry date should not be used for therapeutic purpose but they can still be used for cleaning.
More Information
Latin Name: Pogostemon cablin
Botanical Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
Main chemical constituents: Patchoulol
Country: India
Extraction Method: Steam distilled
Plant part used: Leaves
Culture: Unsprayed
Aromatic note: Base