Patchouli

Description:

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth; also known as patchouly/ pachouli is a species from genus Pogostemon and bushy herb of mint family. Bearing small pale pink-white flowers, the plant is a native to tropical regions of Asia. Patchouli oil is extracted from young leaves that are dried & fermented prior to steam distillation and helps in yielding 2 – 3 % of extract. This oil improves with age and has fuller, more well rounded odor.

History:

For centuries, patchouli oil has been used in the East to scent clothes and linen. In China, Japan and Malaysia the oil was used to treat colds, headaches, nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In the 1960s, patchouli became popular as an aphrodisiac

Color & Aroma:

Color : Pale yellow to yellow brown viscous liquid Woody, balsamic, sweet, camphoraceous odor

Aroma : Warm, earthy aroma with fresh fruit – like tones.

Constituents:

b-patchoulene, caryophyllene, a-guaiene, a-patchoulene, a-bulnesene, seychellene, norpatchoulenol, pogostol, patchouli alcohol.

Uses:

Patchouli oil has grounding as well as balancing effect on emotions & banishes lethargy while helping in sharpening wits, fighting depression as well as anxiety. It is also said to create amorous atmosphere. Further, it is effective for fungal as well as bacterial infections and is of great help for insect bites. It can also be used as insect repellent. Its excellent diuretic properties also makes it effective in fighting water retention & breaking up cellulite, thus easing constipation & helping to reduce overweight.