Patchouli's History and Uses
Ah, Patchouli oil - people seem to love it or hate it. This well know
essential oil has a somewhat deserved reputation as the scent of the
Hippy generation (according to one source, it's use began as a mask for
the odor of a particularly cherished herb), though it's traditional use
dates back hundreds, perhaps thousands of years. Today, Patchouli oil
has a well-deserved reputation in aromatherapy, with it's deep, musky,
and sweet odor, and Earth and Fire balancing energy. It is an exotic
aroma that can forever leave an imprint on the olfactory memory.
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.
Aromatherapy and Perfumery Uses of Patchouli Oil
Patchouli oil is considered an excellent base note and fixative in
perfumery, being a component in many famous perfumes. As a fixative, it
slows the evaporation of other, more volatile oils so that their aroma
may be released over a longer period 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 sources - these include
Vetiver, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Bergamot, Cedarwood,
Myrrh, Jasmine, Rose, Citrus oils, Clary Sage, Lemongrass, Geranium and
Ginger.
In Aromatherapy, Patchouli is considered a great balancer, relaxing yet
stimulating, particularly relevant for conditions of weak immunity
where overwork and anxiety have left the individual in a susceptible
state. It is said to bring the three principal forces at work within
the body - the Creative at the navel, the Heart center, and
transcendental wisdom a the crown - into harmony.
Patchouli oil may also relieve the strain of those with excessive
mental activity who may feel 'out of touch' with their body and
sensuality. It has been considered a relaxing aphrodisiac, and can be
helpful for those with impotence, frigidity, and sexual anxiety that
are products of mental anguish. Patchouli combines this aphrodisiac
effect with an antidepressant one, uplifting the mind with it's sweet,
warm, spicy scent.
As if this were not enough, Patchouli is thought to be a bringer of
prosperity and abundance. Perhaps by allowing one to open to these
possibilities energetically, the oil is used in ceremonies 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
inhale the oil's aroma for a few seconds.
For a few simple blends, try:
3 parts Patchouli and 1 part Rosemary Cineol. This is a wonderfully
uplifting blend combining the deep earthiness of Patchouli with the
invigorating aroma of Rosemary. This 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 skin.
It may take a little education, but many who claim to have a dislike
for Patchouli may truly enjoy it when finally getting to sample a
properly aged or beautifully blended oil.
