Patchouli:
Botanical name: pogostemom cablin
Use: stimulates new cell growth, tightens tissues, speeds healing of sores, wounds, reducing body odor, cools fever, and repels insects. Calms nerves, lifts depression, reduces inflammation, fights infection, stimulates sexual desire.
Perfume Note: Base
Blends well with: Chamomile, Lavender, Helichrysum, Geranium, Clary Sage
Source: leaves
Production method: steam distillation
Aromatherapy benefits: pervasive, calming, enhancing
Aroma type: sweet, spicy, musty, earthy
Warning: none noted
Patchouli: (Pogostemon cablin) rejuvenates skin cells, so it’s used on mature, aging skin and also treats dry skin prone to acne problems. It is also antiseptic and anti-fungal on skin problems. In aromatherapy, patchouli essential oil is typically used to treat acne, anxiety, athlete’s foot, constipation, dandruff, eczema, fatigue, indigestion and insomnia.
A preliminary study published in the Journal of Natural Medicines in 2011 found that patchouli essential oil may help promote sleep.
In tests on mice, the study’s authors determined that inhaling the aroma of patchouli essential oil may have sedative effects that could be useful in the treatment of sleep problems.
Additionally, a report published in Phytotherapy Research in 2005 found that patchouli essential oil may help protect against mosquito bites by acting as an insect repellent.