Healing Properties of Patchouli Oil

Many can’t stand the smell of Patchouli while others are in absolute love with it. I for one am not a huge fan but do not mind Patchouli when it is blended with other oils such as lavender, sandalwood, and frankincense. Patchouli actually has many health benefits, and is great for the skin as well.

Patchouli was first recognized for its primary use as an insecticide during ancient times to keep insects away from garments. During the 18th and 19th centuries silk traders used Patchouli leaves to protect their silks from moths laying their eggs on them as they traveled from village to village.

Patchouli also known as (Pogostemon cablin) comes from the mint family and originates from Southeast Asia. This perennial will grow as high as 3 ft tall with a strong stem and hairy leaves, bearing a pink white flower.

The essential oil Patchouli is extracted from this plant through steam distillation, and can be harvested two to three times a year. Unlike other oils Patchouli oil is better with age, and blends well with other oils, which has made it very popular in the perfumery industry as a fixative. Patchouli slows down evaporation of the more volatile oils so that their aroma is released over a longer period of time.

Anti Depressant: Patchouli is known to help treat depression, reduce stress, uplift moods and relax tension.

Anti Phlogistic or Anti- inflammatory: Counters inflammation and fevers.

Anti Septic: Protects wounds from infections, and in some Asian countries Patchouli is used for treating venomous snake bites.

Astringent: The astringency in Patchouli is believed to help stop hemorrhage by contracting the blood vessels. Astringent properties induce contractions in muscles, nerves and skin. This can also help in preventing hair loss, sagging of skin and loosening of muscles.

Cicatrisant: Patchouli oil is known to have a cicatrisant property which means it has the ability to help heal cuts and wound and speed up the fading of their scars as well. Other scars that this has been proven to be effective on are marks left from boils, acne, pox, and measles.

Cytophylactic: Helps regenerate new skin cells, keeping the skin looking young and vibrant

Deodorant: Effectively keeps body odor away with its strong aroma. Recommended to be used in dilution.

Diuretic: Increases the frequency and quantity of urine. This helps remove toxins from the body as well as lose weight, lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and increase appetite.

Fungicide: Inhibits fungal growth and infections. Patchouli is known for effectively treating athlete’s foot.

Patchouli is one of those scents that you either love or hate. This scent was once a very popular scent in the 60’s and 70’s and is still referred to today as the hippie scent having a pungent, musty, earthy smell to it. Though Patchouli really took its claim to fame during the hippie era, it has a very long track record of being used for cosmetics and medicinal purposes.

The Chinese have been using Patchouli for medicinal purposes since AD 420-589 which is the time span believed that this plant was first introduced to China. Patchouli was used internally as well as externally to treat colds, nausea, diarrhea, dermatitis, abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, headaches, and to stimulate appetite.

Patchouli skin benefits

Patchouli has gained much recognition in the perfumery industry as well as aromatherapy, but has also gained popularity in the skincare industry. You can find Patchouli in many soaps, lotions, shampoos, wrinkle creams, and message oils to name a few, which offer therapeutic value to the skin.

Patchouli has cytophyactic properties which means it has the ability to help regenerate new skin cells keeping the skin looking young and vibrant. Patchouli is also recognized for treating inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and is also said to effectively treat dandruff, acne, vanish scares and reduce varicose veins.

Patchouli has anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties in which gives Patchouli many of its amazing healing abilities.

The smell of Patchouli may bring back memories of the past that are either good or bad. Some have fallen in love with this scent while others despise it. Whether you love or hate the smell of Patchouli there is no denying of its many wonderful healthy benefits which would explain its very long history of use.

Remember to always consult with a clinical herbalist or qualified healthcare practitioner before treating yourself with natural and herbal remedies. All information mentioned in this hub is for general information and should not be considered as medical advice or consultation. Always contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if medical care is needed.