The Patchouli plant is known as the Pogostemon cablin. Mostly you will find this plant in the tropical areas of the world like Asia and Hawaii in the U.S. The plant is bushy with large, soft, and furry leaves. The oil that is extracted from the leaves and can range from a light golden-brown to a dark amber-brown. The plants will reach a height of two to three feet when fully grown.

Patchouli Essential Oil has often been associated with the hippie era due to its rich, earthy, and grounding fragrance. Spiritually, the plant is used during prayer or meditation. The oil is extracted by steam distillation of the leaves. What sets this oil apart from others if that with age is gets more potent, like a fine wine.

Patchouli Oil Benefits

One of Patchouli oil’s benefits is that it is high in sesquiterpenes, which is a naturally occurring compound and has the ability to pass the blood-brain barrier, making it very effective in preventing many diseases. This also increases your body’s own healing abilities over time.The Patchouli Oil’s unique fragrance has an appeal that touches the mind and soul directly. This herb contains many healing powers as listed below.

• Anti-Fungal – inhibits fungal growth and infections
• Anti-inflammatory – soothes inflammation
• Antiseptic – Patchouli Oil protects wounds and ulcers from becoming infected or septic
• Astringent – this oil is so powerful that it can stimulate contracted muscles, nerves and skin.
• Decongestant – for that stuffy nose or chest congestion
• Deodorant – with the strong sweet, spicy and musky aroma that will mask all body odors.
• Insecticidal – from ancient time this oil has been used for keeping insects at a distance
• Stimulant – relaxing the body for a healthy restful night’s sleep
• Tonic – the Patchouli Oil is great for toning up the whole body
• Depression – inhaling Patchouli Essential Oil releases the pleasurable hormones.
• Diuretic – Patchouli Oil increases the frequency and quality of urination that helps with weight loss
• Aphrodisiac – great for treating impotency, loss of libido, frigidity, erectile dysfunctions, and sexual anxiety.

Patchouli Oil Uses

• With all the benefits of the Patchouli plant, there is no wonder there are so many uses for the oil. It is always recommended to purchase organic oils when possible.
• For a more peaceful and relaxing bath add a few drops of Patchouli Oil directly to the water.
• Take a cotton ball of the oil and apply to acne affected areas daily.
• Are your allergies acting up, and then just apply a few drops to the back of your neck or chest and the bottom of your feet.
• Having an anxiety attack? In the palm of your hands add 1-3 drops and cover your nose and mouth for a few minutes.
• For a calming effect in any room add to your diffuser throughout the day.
• Get rid of that flaky dandruff by adding a few drops to your shampoo.
• A simple detox method is to apply a few drops to the soles of your feet.
• For mild urinary issues rub Patchouli oil over the urinary area.
• A few drops over the neck and forehead will help reduce a fever.
• Rubbing a few drops into our temples will help relieve a mild headache.
• Diluted Patchouli oil will help with burning and painful Hemorrhoids.
• Gently apply a few drops over those itchy hives or rashes.
• To keep infection down on minor cuts or bites, gently apply 1-2 drops of the oil to the affected area.
• Diluting the oil in a lotion will allow for easier application to use as a mosquito repellant.
• Massaging a few drops to the back neck and feet soles will act as a Sedative.
• Get those stretch marks to disappear with daily use.
• Place a few drops on cotton balls and place throughout your home as a termite repellent.
• With its antiseptic and insecticide properties Patchouli oil makes a great cleaning solution for your home.
• The dried leaves can be used to protect your stored clothing from pests.
• Avoid bad breath and halitosis by adding a few drops to your mouthwash or any other gargling solution.
• On laundry day just drop a little in the wash load to help kill germs.
• Put a little on a cleaning cloth and wipe down all the door handles to keep germs from spreading.
• Patchouli oil can be found in your daily bathing soaps.
• Consider blending your Patchouli essential oil with oils of Bergamot, Clary Sage, Geranium, Lavender and Myrrh for greater benefits. Sandalwood, Rose, Jasmine, Myrrh, and Citrus are also great as acombination of fragrances in aromatherapy. When using Patchouli Oil directly on your body, remember a little bit goes a long way.

Patchouli Oil Side Effects

Patchouli oil does not seem to produce any side effects, but like many essential oils, it is not recommended for use with pregnant women or children. Some essential oils may cause irritation or allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin so it is wise to do a patch test before using regularly.