Dark and earthy in aroma, patchouli oil is more than just a signature scent of 1960’s hippie counterculture! The wellness benefits of this herb are plentiful and include:
- Supporting mindful meditation.
- Promoting skin health.
- Helping to keep pesky bugs at bay.
What is Patchouli?
Hairy-stemmed and rich with its dark and earthy aroma, patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a bushy herb from the lamiaceae family. A temperate plant, it is native to the jungles of tropical Southeast Asia and, on occasion, bears unassuming faded pink flowers. While it may appear unimpressive, the aroma of patchouli is one that has been enjoyed by humans for centuries—it became especially popular during the hippie influence of the 1960’s and 1970’s, an association many make with the penetrating scent. However, generations before it was burned as incense amongst drum circles and peace rallies, patchouli was already being utilized for a variety of wellness benefits.
First described in 1845 by botanists studying in the Philippines, the moniker “patchouli” was derived from the Tamil words “pachchai” (green) and “ilai” (leaf). Historically, the scent of patchouli was typically associated with exotic imported goods such as silks and rugs from India and the Far East, most likely due to the age-old Asian tradition of using patchouli as a moth repellant. With the distillation of the very first patchouli oil came the start of the true understanding of the wellness properties of this well-loved plant.
Patchouli Essential Oil
Patchouli Oil is extracted from the herb’s leaves using steam distillation, a process that can determine whether the resulting oil is considered Dark or Light. Distillation in traditional iron vats yields the powerfully rich musk of patchouli dark, whereas distillation in stainless-steel containers yields patchouli light, a much subtler scent. What’s truly special about this familiar fragrance is that—just like a fine wine—it only gets better with age!
When used in aromatherapy, patchouli oil's warm, spicy aroma is distinctly calming, which makes it a revered meditation and contemplation aid, as it also works to enhance feelings of grounding stability. Perhaps the most famous benefit of patchouli is its aid in keeping pesky bugs at bay. For some, the earthy, mysteriously fruity aroma can ignite the passions, perhaps due to its romantic ties to the exotic far east…
Blending essential oils opens up a world of aromatherapy possibilities! Other oils that complement patchouli’s pungent fragrance include: amber, bergamot, black pepper, cedarwood, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, ginger, lavender, mandarin, myrrh, roman chamomile, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, sweet orange, and vetiver oils.
Piping Rock 100% pure Dark Patchouli Oil is available in 1/2 oz. & 2 oz. bottles; 100% pure Light Patchouli Oil is available in 1/2 oz. bottles.
Patchouli Oil Directions for Use
Add 3-5 drops of Patchouli Oil to a diffuser or vaporizer, to a bowl of steaming water or a hot bath to fill a room with its musky scent. To use topically, add ~5 drops of Patchouli Oil to ~10 mL of any Piping Rock carrier oil.
Patchouli Oil is for external use only and should be diluted in a carrier oil such as sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed or avocado oil before being used topically. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Always consult your trusted physician before adding any essential oil to your regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications. Discontinue use and alert your doctor should an adverse reaction occur. Keep out of reach of children and away from eyes and mouth. Essential oils are flammable.
