Patchouli essential oil – properties, uses and health benefits

Essential oils are widely used in aromatherapy. They are widely valued not only for their unique scents, but also for their health-promoting properties. In addition to their aromatic qualities, essential oils can be successfully used in daily care – for massages, baths and compresses.

What is patchouli oil?

Patchouli oil, also known as patchouli essential oil, is extracted from the patchouli plant. Patchouli originates from the tropical regions of Asia, from the Philippines to India. It is also cultivated in the Caribbean and in parts of West Africa. The oil itself is obtained through the steam distillation of the plant’s dried leaves.

What does patchouli oil smell like?

What sets patchouli oil apart is its distinctive scent. Its original, deep, spicy-earthy scent brings to mind oriental fabrics. It is unquestionably associated with the Orient, but also with the hippies of the 1960s and 1970s, as that was when the oil was at its most popular. The oil takes the form of a thick, amber-coloured liquid, which only reinforces the associations with India.

Natural patchouli essential oil – properties

A valued and beneficial feature of patchouli oil is that, it can fix other scents. Thanks to this property, it is widely used in cosmetics for the production of perfumes, creams, deodorants and lotions. It is extremely effective at masking unpleasant odours. Patchouli oil is also excellent for repelling moths and mosquitoes. Its intense scent successfully repels insects, which is why in India it was used to protect fabrics intended for export. If you wish to make use of this property of patchouli oil, simply place a few drops inside your wardrobe. To repel mosquitoes, mix patchouli oil with your favourite body lotion.

Patchouli oil and its health benefits

Patchouli oil is characterised by its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Its antiseptic and regenerative properties mean, it is highly valued in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions, such as eczema or nappy rash. The oil regenerates the skin and improves its condition. In addition to its beneficial effects on the facial skin, women will appreciate patchouli oil because massage using this oil can help combat cellulite. The oil leaves the skin firm and nourished.

Patchouli oil regulates the nervous system. It has a calming effect, alleviates the effects of chronic stress and strengthens the immune system.

Patchouli extract counteracts water retention in the body, and is therefore beneficial for urinary tract conditions. It is used in the treatment of colds and flu, due to its antibacterial properties. The oil eases breathing, helps relieve a blocked nose and alleviates headaches.

Patchouli oil has soothing and regulating properties. However, many consider it a stimulating aphrodisiac, so it works perfectly as an addition to a sensual body lotion. It boosts libido and helps create a pleasant atmosphere in the bedroom.

How to use patchouli oil?

Patchouli oil will be a valuable addition not only to your home medicine cabinet, but also to any make-up bag. The oil’s wide range of effects can bring many health benefits, and, apart from aromatherapy, the oil itself will find many other uses in your home.

• Aromatherapy
  In aromatherapy, patchouli oil is used as a sleep aid. Sachets soaked in patchouli are placed under the pillow before bedtime. They act as a stimulant and make it easier to wake up.

• Massages
  Patchouli oil makes an excellent addition to massage oils. Add a few drops of patchouli oil to a base oil such as jojoba, sunflower or grape seed oil. The soothing effect of the oil will calm your nerves and help you relax, whilst also nourishing the skin all over your body.

• Baths
  Adding a few drops of patchouli oil to a bath full of warm water will allow you to enjoy the oil’s properties used in aromatherapy. The deep scent of patchouli will awaken the senses and help you relax. The oil will nourish the skin and soothe aching muscles. It alleviates fatigue, so it is the perfect choice after a long, tiring day.

• Addition to body lotions and butters
  Adding a drop of patchouli oil to a portion of body lotion or butter will regenerate and nourishthe skin and help to reduce discolouration. Those with dry skin will appreciate the added softening and smoothing effect.

• Use on the face
  Patchouli oil possesses many properties desirable in facial care. Its antibacterial action will help combat blemishes and acne. The oil will purify the skin and prepare it for the application of further skincare products. Those with mature skin will appreciate the anti-wrinkle properties of patchouli oil. The oil tightens the skin, making it smoother, more supple and visibly nourished.

• Inhalations
  The antiseptic properties of patchouli oil are ideal for inhalations during colds, flu and a runny nose. The oil will help with headaches and bring relief to a blocked nose. Add a few drops of patchouli oil to hot water, cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for a few minutes geranium oil

• bergamot oil

• pine oil

• myrrh

• manuka oil

• rosewood oil

Spicy The scent of patchouli oil also blends beautifully with notes of vanilla and ginger, as well as sandalwood and, as well as mint or rosemary. Patchouli oil blends harmoniously with many different scents, so it is worth testing a few combinations, to find the most pleasant one. However, it is important to remember, that to fully enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy, you should not use more than five different oils at once.

Contraindications for the use of patchouli oil

Patchouli oil should not be used by pregnant women, children or whilst breastfeeding. Do not apply undiluted oil to the skin – add a few drops to a carrier oil or your favourite cosmetic product. The oil should not be used on fresh wounds or irritated skin. It is also not recommended to take the oil orally. When using any new substance, always carry out a patch test; if signs of an allergic reaction occur, stop using the oil immediately. Natural essential oils can be a real remedy for many different problems. It is definitely worth incorporating them into your daily life. Whether you choose to inhale patchouli oil, or utilise its insecticidal properties, it will be the perfect addition to both your first-aid kit, and your make-up bag. Remember, that to enjoy the precious properties of essential oils, we should always choose the highest quality ones. Then we can be sure, that the oil is full of valuable properties.

"The Fragrant Pharmacy. The Secrets of Aromatherapy”, Władysław Stanisław Brud, Iwona Konopacka-Brud, MAK Publishing House, 2008.

"Cosmetics: My Hobby", Stephanie Faber, SPAR Publishing House, 1993.