Patchouli Essential Oil

Latin name Pogostemon cablin – Family species Labiacae (Labiata)

Patchouli, also found spelled patchouly or pachouli, is also sometimes referred to as Pogostemon Patchouli and puchaput.

“Patchouli essential oil is used in aromatherapy to treat skin complaints. It is thought to have a regenerative effect on skin tone and to help clear conditions such as eczema and acne. The oil may also be used for varicose veins and hemorrhoids.” -Andrew Chevallier (The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants)

Patchouli is a very versatile oil, blending well with many other essential oils (see list below), and is said to be an aphrodisiac, but a little goes a long way. The scent can quickly overwhelm other oils and last longer, so the adage of less is more applies here.

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Amber or reddish brown
Viscosity – Viscous
Scent – Sweet, earthy, herby, smoky, rich, deep, woody, strong, penetrating
Perfume Aroma – Middle note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Plant
Part Used – Leaves
Countries of Origin – Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Phillipines, Madagascar, China, India, United States
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

Patchouli alcohol, pogostol, patchoulene, patchoulenol, sesquiterpene, bulnesol, bulnese

Applications and Uses

Patchouli is used in aromatherapy. Patchouli is also used in perfumes, cosmetics, and as a fragrance in scenting carpets, linen, and other materials.

Patchouli blends well with

Recipes and Ideas

Precautions / Contraindications

See Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

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