The Amazing Benefits Of Patchouli Essential Oil

The health benefits of patchouli essential oil can be attributed to its properties as an antidepressant, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, deodorant, diuretic, fungicide, insecticide, sedative, and a tonic substance. It also has wound healing and scar reducing properties, as well as aphrodisiac effects. 

For many people, a whiff of patchouli oil brings to mind the hippie movement of the '60s and '70s. But beyond this oil's unique aroma that's associated with the "flower children" is a wealth of benefits that can soothe and heal you inside out. Discover more interesting facts about patchouli oil below.....

What Exactly Is Patchouli Oil?

Patchouli oil is derived from a large evergreen perennial that is a member of the Labiatae family, and a close relative of mint, lavender and sage. 

The name "patchouli" (Pogostemon cablin or Pogostemon patchouli) is said to be derived from the ancient Tamil words "patchai" and "ellai," meaning "green leaf."

Others say it comes from the Hindustan word "patchoi," meaning "to scent," referring to its use as a fragrance.

Patchouli originates from Southeast Asia. Today, it's cultivated in China, Malaysia, India, Indonesia and the Philippines, but also grows in South America and other tropical regions like Hawaii.

Patchouli oil is extracted from the lightly fragrant leaves and the white, violet-marked flowers of the plant. It's a thick, light yellow or brown liquid, with a strong, musky-earthy and slightly sweet aroma, reminiscent of wet soil. For some, the potent fragrance of this oil is an acquired taste.

What sets patchouli oil apart from other herbal oils is that it gets better with age. Its light yellow color turns into a deep amber, and the scent becomes smoother and richer.    

The insecticidal and insect repellent properties of this oil have been known for many years, particularly as it was used in the protection of clothes and fabrics from insects. More health benefits of patchouli essential oil have been discovered and it is now one of the most versatile and celebrated essential oils on the market.

How to use Patchouli Oil.....

Patchouli has been used for thousands of years. It was very valuable — early European traders actually  exchanged 1 pound of patchouli for a pound of gold.

Romans used it as an appetite stimulant while, in Egypt, it was said that Pharaoh Tutankhamun — also known as King Tut — arranged to have 10 gallons of patchouli oil buried with him in his tomb. Patchouli oil has long been used in traditional Asian medicine, especially in Malaysia, China and Japan. It is used to treat skin and hair problems, such as dermatitis, eczema, acne, dry chapped skin, dandruff, and oily scalp.

It also has wound healing and scar reducing properties, as well as aphrodisiac effects. The link to sexual desire likely originated from India, where it is used in Tantric sexual practices.

Patchouli oil is also popularly used as a fabric fragrance, a practice that dates back to 19th century India. Manufacturers used it as a moth repellent for fabrics that are exported to other countries. The scent was so widely used that it became an indicator of authentic Oriental fabric. English and French garment makers even became obliged to add patchouli oil to their imitation products to make them acceptable in the market.

Today, patchouli oil is used as a fragrance in skin and personal care products, air fresheners, laundry detergents, and paper towels. It's also used as incense and as a base note for perfumes. In aromatherapy, patchouli oil is said to help relieve anxiety, stress and depression. Its calming effect is very effective for relaxation and meditation. Simply add a few drops in a diffuser or vaporizer.

You can also mix it into your face cream, lotion or shampoo, or even add it to your bathwater. 

Here are other ways to use patchouli oil:

• Massage it on your skin to help prevent wrinkles and cellulite. Simply dilute it in a light carrier oil.
• Dab a small amount on your skin to soothe cuts, scrapes, burns and sores, as well as insect bites.
• Apply a few drops on your wrists or add it to your sheets to keep ants, bedbugs and other pests away.
• Put two to three drops on a cotton ball and dab it on your underarms to prevent body odor.
• Mix a couple of drops into your shampoo or conditioner to treat dandruff and oily hair. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing.

 Health benefits of Patchouli Oil

 Patchouli oil can help address health conditions such as:

• Inflammation — Patchouli oil can help soothe inflammation and/or irritation. It also works for inflammation-related conditions, like gout and arthritis.
• Fungal infection — It helps inhibit fungal growth and gives you protection against notorious infections, such as athlete's foot.
• Colds and flu — Patchouli oil can bolster your immune system to help you avoid colds, influenza and tonsillitis.
• Fever —It helps fight infections that cause fever and reduces your body temperature.
• Sexual problems (men and women) — It stimulates the sex hormones estrogen and testosterone, and helps boost your sex drive. It is useful for impotence, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction and sexual anxiety.

Patchouli oil is a tonic that helps promote your overall well-being by toning your stomach, liver and intestines to optimize metabolic function. It also helps regulate your Endocrinol secretions of hormones and enzymes, and boosts your nervous and immune system health.

The Candle Doctor carries 100% Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils & No Blends.