Patchouli essential oil is a fairly uncommon one, even though it possesses unique properties that can make it an invaluable part of your aromatic arsenal. In fact, combined with other popular oils as part of certain patchouli oil blends, you might be pleasantly surprised to see the synergistic actions.
Origin And Source Of Patchouli Oil
Patchouli essential oil is derived from the leaves of the Patchouli plant (Pogostemon cablin plant), which is a member of the mint family. The essential oil is extracted through a steam distilled method, commonly used in perfumes or incense.
The oil is commonly combined with citrus scents.
The History Of Patchouli Oil
Patchouli oil was first used in India and China for its medicinal properties, but it didn’t become popular in the Western world until the 1960s when it was used as a scent in hippie culture.
In fact, it was native to parts of southeast Asia, including the areas that are today known as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and India.
Characteristics Of The Oil
It takes over 250kg of fresh leaves which are subsequently distilled to yield just 1L of oil, making it a labor-intensive process.
Its scent is best described as sweet and spicy, with hints of woodiness. Think of the earthy aroma of the forest floor after rain.
It can be applied topically or used in aromatherapy but is not safe for oral consumption.
Therapeutic Benefits Of Patchouli Oil
Like other essential oils, patchouli brings a range of benefits to the table. Its most noteworthy benefits include:
Promotes Calm And Relieves Anxiety
One of the primary benefits of patchouli when used aromatherapeutically is for its ability to promote calm and relieve anxiety. This is likely due to the oil’s ability to stimulate the release of serotonin, which is known to promote a sense of well-being and relaxation, alleviating mental stress.
Serotonin is the neurotransmitter associated a positive mood and is often low in persons diagnosed with depression. Serotonin is also inhibited by stress, so increasing its release with patchouli oil can help to combat the negative impacts of stress induced anxiety or depression.
By relieving stress, better sleep is also likely to come by easier.
May Promote Skin Health
Patchouli oil shows promise as a natural treatment for skin health. Especially when it comes to wrinkle reduction, acne, and eczema.
One study showed that patchouli oil was able to improve the skin health of participants who applied it topically twice a day for four weeks.
One postulated mechanism behind this is enhanced collagen production, as patchouli oil is a natural inhibitor of the enzyme collagenase.
May Help Fight Infections
Patchouli oil has also been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which could make it effective against certain types of infection. One study showed that the essential oil was able to inhibit the growth of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a troublesome strain that is resistant to many popular antibiotics.
It may also be helpful when dealing with certain fungal infections as well, although more research is needed in this area. Be wary when combining with other anti fungal medication.
Assists With Dandruff Management
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that is caused by the over-production of sebum. This sebum combines with dead skin cells to form a white or yellowish flake that can be seen on the scalp.
Patchouli oil has been shown to be an effective treatment against dandruff, as it helps to reduce the production of sebum while also fighting infection.
Topical Anti-Inflammatory And Analgesic
Patchouli oil is also a great choice for topical pain relief. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain when applied topically.
This makes it helpful in the management of conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and headaches.
In addition to this, by decreasing the migration of inflammatory mediators such as neutrophils, the subsequent inflammatory response is lowered. Its pain relieving properties may be enhanced via the addition of oils that yield menthol.
Supports Oral Health
Patchouli oil has been shown to be an effective way to promote oral health. It has antimicrobial properties that can help to fight against infection. In addition, its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the mouth and gums. All of these effects make patchouli oil a great choice for promoting oral health.
The mechanisms behind these actions are not fully understood, but it is thought that the essential oil’s active ingredients work together to provide a variety of benefits for oral health. For example, the antimicrobial properties may help to kill bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease, while the anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce inflammation and pain. Additionally, the analgesic effects may help to numb the mouth and gums, which can be helpful for people who are experiencing dental pain.
Ultimately, patchouli oil is a great choice for promoting oral health and can provide a variety of benefits for the teeth and gums. It is sometimes combined with other ingredients such as clove oil to provide even more benefits, but it can also be used on its own.
Boost Energy Levels
There is some evidence that patchouli oil can be used to boost energy levels. One study showed that when participants were given a blend of patchouli, rosemary, and lavender oils, they had a significant increase in energy levels. Additionally, the study showed that the essential oil blend was able to improve cognitive function and mood.
It is thought that the active ingredients in patchouli oil are responsible for these effects. These ingredients may work together to help reduce stress levels and improve energy levels. In addition, the pleasant smell of the oil may also help to boost mood and improve energy levels.
Patchouli oil can be applied topically or via aromatherapy for best results. If you are using it topically, it is important to dilute it with a carrier oil first. Alternatively, you can consume it by mouth by adding a drop or two to water or tea (but no more than this). However, it is important to note that not all of the oil’s benefits are known, so it is best to speak with a healthcare professional before using it in this way.
May Promote Scar Healing
There is some evidence that patchouli oil may help to promote the healing of scars. One study showed that when participants applied a blend of patchouli, lavender, and helichrysum oils topically, their scars healed faster than those who did not use the blend.
It is thought that the active ingredients in patchouli oil such as patchouli alcohol may be responsible for these effects. These ingredients may help to improve blood circulation and promote the healing of tissues. In addition, the oil’s antimicrobial properties may help to fight infection and reduce inflammation.
All of these properties make it handy for accelerating scar healing time.
Natural Deodorant
There is some evidence that patchouli oil can be used as a natural deodorant. One study showed that when participants applied a blend of patchouli, lavender, and helichrysum oils topically, their body odor was reduced.
It is thought that the active ingredients in patchouli oil such as patchouli alcohol may be responsible for these effects. Other constituents such as α-guaiene, seychellene, α-patchoulene, α-bulnesene also play their part.
These ingredients may help to kill bacteria that can cause body odor, and the oil’s antimicrobial properties may help to keep odor-causing bacteria at bay. Additionally, the pleasant smell of the oil may also help to mask any unpleasant smells.
To use as a deodorant most often one or a few drops are added to a mixture and applied in a roller bottle or directly on the fingers.
Insect Repellant
There is some evidence that patchouli oil can be used as an insect repellant. One study showed that when participants applied a blend of patchouli, lavender, and helichrysum oils topically, their exposure to mosquitoes was reduced.
The oil does not kill the insects but instead repels them. The active ingredients in patchouli oil, such as patchouli alcohol, are thought to be responsible for these effects. These ingredients may help to mask the human scent and discourage insects from approaching.
To use as an insect repellant, most often one or two drops are added to a mixture and applied in a roller bottle or directly on the fingers. Just be sure to not use it undiluted on your skin as it can be irritating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Patchouli Oil Need To Be Mixed With A Carrier Oil?
No, you do not need to mix patchouli oil with carrier oils. However, if you are using it topically, it is important to dilute it with a carrier oil first. This is because the oil can be irritating to the skin if used undiluted.
Can Patchouli Oil Be Taken Internally?
No, it is not usually recommended to take patchouli oil internally. The oil is not meant to be consumed and there is no evidence that it provides any benefits when taken this way.
However, there have been anecdotal reports of people consuming a drop or two in other beverages and claiming to benefit from its usage.
Who Should Not Use The Oil?
Patchouli oil should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Additionally, it should not be used by people who are allergic to plants in the mint family. People with sensitive skin should also avoid using the oil topically as it may cause skin irritation. Always attempt a patch test first.
In addition, it has the potential to affect blood clotting, so consult your medical practitioner before use.
Can The Oil Be Used On Pets?
There is no evidence that patchouli oil can be used on pets. It is best to consult with a veterinarian before using any essential oil on an animal.
Where Can I Get Patchouli Oil From?
The Patchouli oil I prefer to use is Amazon’s choice with over 2000 reviews from satisfied customers. Organic patchouli essential oil is the best you can buy.
Coming in at under $10 per bottle you really can’t go wrong. There are other places you can buy patchouli oil as well, but Amazon’s low price really can’t be beaten.