Patchouli has probably the most distinctive smell of all the essential oils, with its strong, fragrant, earthy, exotic musky notes and deep woody undertones. This plant, which bears an uncanny resemblance to lavender, is native to India and Malaysia and was commonly used to repel mosquitoes and kill bed bugs.

Between the18th century to the mid-19th century, the dried patchouli leaves were used as packing materials for Chinese silks and cashmeres to protect these delicate fabrics from moths whilst in transit. During Victorian times, these scarves, shawls & fabrics made their way to England and quickly gained a reputation for luxury due to its heady aromatic fragrance, and of course only available to the elite & high society.

Patchouli went through a revival during the 70’s and now we associate patchouli with the hippie era, but there is way more to patchouli than just Woodstock, bongs, mung beans & free love. Believe it or not, patchouli is an amazingly effective oil in skin care as its cell regenerating properties accelerates healing and helps break down cellulite. Like a fine red wine, Patchouli is one of the few oils that actually improves with age and mature skin benefits from its deep moisturising collagen repairing properties.

Patchouli really is a wonder oil, from its ability to sedate to settling anxiety and infection, we can see why this wonder oil has been labelled the true title of ‘liquid gold’ (Kocevski D et al 2013).

Lets explore some of the ways in which we can use patchouli. 

• Soothe inflammation : Mix 4 drops with a little almond or olive oil and rub on feet, abdomen, low back and any other achy joints or areas of concern.

     

• Stress buster& feel good boost : Add 6 drops to a diffuser, inhaling the aroma will help release the feel good hormones, serotonin and dopamine in the body. Or combine 5 drops each of patchouli & lavender essential oil and add to bathwater for a deep relaxing soak.

     

• Skin health : Add a few drops to your face and body wash, or dilute with equal parts carrier oil and massage on the skin.

     

• Natural insect repellent : Add 10 drops to 100ml water spray bottle, spray on skin, furniture, clothes, bedding and soft furnishings.

     

• Hair health : Massage a few drops into the scalp or add a few drops to your conditioner.

     

• Libido booster : Use 5 drops in the diffuser or combine 3 drops with 3 drops olive oil and dab on wrists, temples & back of the neck.

     

• Natural deodorant : Combine a few drops with a carrier oil and massage over body and under arms.

     

• Natural antibacterial : Keep in the medicine kit and apply topically.

PATCHOULI

Botanical name: Pogostemon cablin

Origin: Native to tropical Asia, especially Indonesia and the Philippines.

Aroma characteristics: Spicy, woody, strong, sweet, deep and exotic, earthy, heady uplifting & sedative.

Therapeutic properties: Antidepressant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, calmative, cytophylactic (protects cells), nervine, immune-stimulant.

Therapeutic uses: Viral, fungal, bacterial infection, parasitic infection, respiratory tract infection, insect repellent, insect bites and stings, gastrointestinal infection, bronchitis, catarrh, colds, influenza, rheumatism, muscular pain, acne, abscesses, depression, moodiness, irritability, problematic skin conditions.

• Moisturises dry skin and reduces appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin
• Aids the lymphatic system and improves circulation
• Boosts the immune system
• Combats colds and flu
• Supports the nervous system and improves fatigue
• Skin care for cracked skin (heels) and skin infections

All the essential oils highlighted in this column are available at The Emporium of the Enchanted Forest (inside the VaVa Yoga Studio), and you can explore our Apothecary and discuss any questions you may have with me, Ashlí.

References

Kocevski D, Du M, Kan J, Jing C, Lačanin I, Pavlović H. Antifungal effect of Allium tuberosum, Cinnamomum cassia, and Pogostemon cablin essential oils and their components against population of Aspergillus species. J Food Sci. 2013 May;78(5):M731-7. doi: 10.1111/1750-3841.12118. PMID: 23647469.

Patchouli

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