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Oh the infamous Patchouli essential oil - This well know aromatic essence carries a deserved reputation as the scent of the counter-culture generation, first gaining fame as a cover up for the aroma of another burning herb. Patchouli's traditional aromatic and medicinal uses, however, date back perhaps thousands of years. Today, Patchouli (sometimes written 'Patchouly') has an honored place in aromatherapy and natural perfumery, with it's deep, musky, and sweet scent, and emotionally balancing properties. Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a perennial herb native to Southeast Asia, growing wild in Sumatra and Java at elevations between 3,000 and 6,000 feet - though it's cultivation is more pervasive in lower tropical jungles. This bushy plant grows to the height of 3 feet, having a strong stem and soft, hairy leaves. For essential oil production, the plant is cut two or three times per year, with the best quality oil derived from leaves harvested in the wet season. The leaves are hand picked, bundled or baled, and allowed to partially dry in the shade and ferment for a few days before the oil is extracted via steam distillation (Patchouli oil is now becoming available as a CO2 extract in limited quantities). The fermentation process softens the plant's cell walls, easing the extraction of the oil. The relative ease of it's cultivation, and it's high oil yield keeps the price of true Patchouli essential oils relatively low. It is important to note however, Patchouli is one of the few essential oils that improve with age (others being Frankincense, Cedarwood, Sandalwood and Vetiver), and that a properly aged Patchouli oil is much more desirable than a fresh one. Over time, the oil looses a harshness that many find distasteful, and adds a sweet top note. As it ages, the oil turns from light yellow to a deep amber, with the aroma becoming smoother and more rich. Principal constituents of the oil include: Patchoulol (25-35%), Alpha-Bulnesene (12-20%), Alpha-Guaiene + Seychellene (15-25%), and Alpha-Patchoulene (5-9%). Perhaps first due to it's power as a moth repellent, the aroma of Patchouli was pervasive in cloth and clothing exported from India in the 19th century. The scent became an indicator of true 'Oriental' fabric, so much so that English and French garment makers were obliged to scent their imitation products with Patchouli to ensure their acceptance in the domestic marketplace. Beyond its use for preventing holes from being eaten in one's cloting, Patchouli oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Malaysia, China and Japan. Primarily indicated for skin conditions, Patchouli may be of benefit in cases of dermatitis, eczema, acne, dry chapped skin, and other irritating conditions, along with dandruff and oily scalp conditions. As a cell rejuvenator, it may help in healing wounds and reducing the appearance of scars. It is considered an excellent remedy for insect and snake bites, and has been used as a fumigant and rubbing oil to prevent the spread of fevers and to strengthen the immune system. Patchouli is a superior base note and fixative in perfumery, being a component in many famous perfumes and colognes. As a 'fixative', it slows the evaporation of more volatile oils so their aroma can be detected for longer periods of time. A little Patchouli can be used in natural perfume blends, adding that special deep and earthy aroma. It mixes well with many essential oils, with almost all common oils being mentioned across a variety of respected perfumery and aromatherapy sources. In aromatherapy, Patchouli is considered a great balancer, relaxing yet stimulating, particularly relevant for conditions of weak immunity where overwork and anxiety have left one feeling 'spent'. Patchouli oil may also relieve the strain of those with excessive mental activity who may feel out of touch with their sensuality. It has been considered a aphrodisiac, and can be helpful worn as a perfume for those with impotence, frigidity, and sexual anxiety. Patchouli combines this aphrodisiac effect with an antidepressant one, uplifting the mind with it's sweet, warm, earthy qualities. Adding to it's mystique, Patchouli is thought to be a bringer of prosperity and abundance. By allowing one to open to these possibilities energetically, the oil is used in rituals and prayers by those in need of financial or other type of infusion in their lives. One may simply close their eyes, imagine the abundance they need, and deeply inhale the oil's aroma. Creating your own aromatherapy and perfumery blends with Patchouli can be exceptionally rewarding - for a few simple blends, try: 3 parts Patchouli and 1 part Rosemary oil. This is a wonderfully uplifting blend combining the deep earthiness of Patchouli with the invigorating, herbaceous aroma of Rosemary, and can certainly be worn as a perfume or used in a diffuser. When the going gets tedious, try brightening with 3 parts Coriander, 2 parts Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. This may uplift the spirits and remind one of the joy to be found in life. For the sensually insecure, try 1 part Geranium, 1 part Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. A beautiful yet simple blend for getting comfortable in one's own body. There's a little background on this well-known but somewhat mysterious essential oil. With it's many wonderful uses, Patchouli is worth a little experimentation - and for those who have disliked the aroma in the past, a good quality, well-aged oil is worth investigation. Some who once turned their nose up at the sharp scent have found they truly enjoy a smooth, well-rounded Patchouli essential oil.
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More information is available on pure essential oils at The Ananda Apothecary.
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