Patchouli Organic Essential Oil 10ml

Rich, earthy, and unmistakably exotic — our organic patchouli essential oil captures the soul of the East in every drop

Extracted from the Pogostemon cablin plant of the mint family, this oil carries a deep musky-sweet, spicy aroma that has enchanted cultures for centuries. The plant is native to Malaysia and India, where it is known as 'puchaput'. The word patchouli comes from the Tamil 'pachchaiilai', meaning simply 'green leaf'. The young leaves are carefully dried and fermented before steam distillation, a process that gives the oil its signature depth. Remarkably, patchouli oil improves in fragrance and potency with age

• Latin Name Pogostemon Cablin
• Part of Plant Used Dried Leaves
• Source India
• Extraction Method Steam Distillation

Highly valued in skincare, patchouli oil is especially known for its scar-healing properties. In Eastern countries, it has long been used in potpourris and sachets placed between linen and clothes — both for its beautiful fragrance and to keep bedbugs and insects at bay. The oil is said to have a balancing effect on the emotions, creating an amorous atmosphere. When used in an oil burner, it eases anxiety and depression. Added to bath water, it is believed to help with skin and scalp complaints, fungal infections, fluid retention, and to break down cellulite and ease constipation. With excellent tissue-regenerating properties, it speeds up healing and fights infections, making it beneficial for acne, eczema, weeping sores, ulcers, and athlete's foot

Patchouli was once placed between Indian cashmere shawls before they were sent to Victorian England, protecting the merchandise from moths. Without this signature scent of dried patchouli leaves, the shawls could not be sold in England. In the 1960s and 70s, patchouli oil and incense became immensely popular among hippies in Europe and America, as its rich aroma covered body odour and the smell of burnt cannabis. It was also used as a hair conditioner for dreadlocks. In many Asian countries, patchouli serves as an antidote to snakebite