Patchouli (Pogostemon patchouli )

Patchouli is a perennial aromatic plant that grows about 3 feet tall. It is native to the Asian countries of the Indonesia and Malaysia. It is widely used in perfumes, oils and soaps and its leaves make an excellent potpourri. Patchouli made a resurgence in the 1960's as a popular oils used by Hippies to condition their skin and hair. Also used as an aphrodisiac, Patchouli is often found in many aromatherapy products and incenses. The odor is heavy, earthy, musty, pungent, and penetrating. To some people the scent of patchouli is exotic, sensual, and luxurious, but to others it’s too forceful and repellent. As it ages, it develops patchouli’s distinctive scent.

Medically, Patchouli is antibacterial and anti fungal. Used for ages in the Far East, Patchouli was employed to treat nausea, headaches, colds and even venomous snake bites. Patchouli has also been known as a skin toner and to be effective in treating acne and eczema. Cosmetically, the essential oil is a cell rejuvenator and antiseptic that treats a number of skin problems, including eczema and inflamed, cracked, and mature skin. As an antifungal, it counters athlete’s foot. The aroma reduces appetite and helps to relieve headaches, unless the patient doesn’t like it!

Perfumers must think that it works since minute quantities of high quality oil scent such famous perfumes as Tabu and Shocking. All attempts to make a synthetic patchouli have failed utterly.