Patchouli Extra Fine Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Pogostemon cablin

A bushy, aromatic perennial herb in the mint family, Patchouli (also spelled Patchouly) is a native species to the tropical regions of southeastern Asia, specifically the islands of Sumatra and Java in Indonesia and the Philippines.

The leaves are hand picked 2-3 times per year, bundled or baled, and allowed to partially dry in the shade and ferment for a few days before the oil is extracted. The fermentation process softens the plant's cell walls and eases oil extraction.

This dark orange yellow Patchouli essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves of plants organically grown in Indonesia. This particular Patchouli has a more predominant floral top note than the 'special dark' extraction, it carries similar notes of mint and deep, warm, well-aged woody undertones.

It blends well with: Rose Absolute, Bergamot, Geranium, Lavender, Myrrh, Ginger, and Ylang-Ylang oil.

This 'extra fine' extraction is enjoyed by people who have never before appreciated the aroma of Patchouli. It has a fantastic, deep aroma not often found in younger Patchouli oils (typically the aromatic compounds gain complexity with age).

Patchouli oil is used as a 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.

The oil has been used in India for years for medicinal purposes, but chiefly as an aphrodisiac and to perfume cloth. The aroma of Patchouli in homespun cloth was so pervasive that garment makers importing their wares were obliged to scent their imitations for the local marketplace.

Treatment of skin conditions (such as oily skin and acne) and stimulating the growth of healthy hair have been the two predominant medicinal uses of Patchouli oil.

Antibiotic, Antidepressant, Anti-emetic, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antiphlogistic, Antiseptic, Antitoxic, Antiviral, Aphrodisiac, Astringent, Carminitive, Cictrisant, Deodorant, Diuretic, Febrifuge, Nervine, Prophylactic, Stimulant (immune system, nervous system). (See Definitions.)

Psychological:

• Lifts depression
• Promotes positivity
• Inspires creativity
• Calms anxiety
• Aids in balancing stress-related conditions such as mental fatigue
• Grounding
• May relieve frigidity or anxiety surrounding sexual or sensual pleasures

Dermatological:

• Smooths wrinkles and tones skin
• Adds moisture to depleted cells
• Soothes eczema
• Combats skin infections such as impetigo
• Quells outbreaks of acne and herpes
• Can aid in the elimination of varicose veins and hemorrhoids (in combination with Geranium and Cypress oils)
• Reduces skin inflammation including that associated with insect bites
• Reduces dandruff
• Heals, and cools chapped, irritated skin

Psycho-Spiritual:

• Attracts prosperity and abundance
• Used in ceremonies and prayers by those in need of energetic infusions

Topical:

• A small amount of Patchouli can be used in natural perfume blends, adding that special deep and earthy aroma.

• 3 parts Patchouli oil and 1 part Rosemary Cineol. This is a wonderfully uplifting blend combining the deep earthiness of Patchouli oil 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 oil and 1 part Bergamot. A beautiful yet simple blend for getting comfortable in one's own skin.

Patchouli essential oil is non-toxic, a non-irritant and non-sensitizing.