What is Patchouli Oil?
Patchouli essential oil is a rich, earthy oil steam distilled from dried patchouli leaves, and it's a favorite base note in natural perfumes and grounding diffuser blends. Pogostemon cablin, more commonly known as patchouli, is a bushy herb in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It has pale pink flowers and grows throughout Asia in tropical regions. It blooms in late fall and has very fragrant blossoms. Its name comes from the Tamil (a language spoken in India, Singapore, and Sri Lanka) words “patchai” (green) and “ellai” (leaf).
Patchouli’s strong scent has made it a popular choice for incense and perfumes throughout history. This scent is strongly associated with the hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s within the United States, when it was often used as incense. However, its origins go back much further. One early example of its importance is from Ancient Egypt, where the Pharaoh Tutankhamun (“King Tut”) had 10 gallons of patchouli oil placed in his tomb. European traders brought patchouli out of Asia via the Silk Road and the herb quickly became associated with the exoticism of the “Far East.” Throughout the 1800s, Indian fabrics shipped to Europe were often packed with patchouli leaves, and buyers came to expect that signature scent.
In order to extract our patchouli essential oil, we use steam distillation. This involves placing dried Pogostemon cablin leaves in a vat and injecting the mixture with steam. This vaporizes the scent compounds in the plant, which we then collect, condense, and purify.
Complementary Scents
Patchouli blends well with floral scents like lavender, rose, or ylang ylang. It also complements the floral undertones of bergamot essential oil. The sweetness of these aromas helps to balance the muskiness of patchouli. You can also try patchouli oil with frankincense for a more woody, spicy blend.
Primary Benefits
Diffusing patchouli oil is a great way to enjoy its scent without the smoke that comes with burning incense. It has spiritual associations with purification and grounding. Many people also find it very relaxing. This makes it a great choice to diffuse while meditating, whether by itself or with other oils you enjoy.
Patchouli essential oil is also a great addition to your skin care routine. Many people like adding one or two drops to an unscented moisturizer for its warm, earthy scent. If you prefer, you can dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut, olive, or jojoba oil.
How to Use Patchouli Essential Oil
To diffuse patchouli oil, add a few drops to your diffuser, following the instructions for your particular model. Patchouli often has a stronger scent than other essential oils, so you may wish to start with a smaller amount at first. Adding too much can result in an overpowering aroma or could damage your diffuser. You should also limit the amount of time that you run the diffuser to a few hours.
To use patchouli oil topically, you must dilute it with a carrier oil first. This prevents damage to your skin. We recommend three drops of essential oil in one teaspoon of a carrier oil for massage oil or three drops in four teaspoons of carrier oil for any facial application. Always test on a small patch of skin first and inform your doctor if you have any adverse reaction.
Patchouli Oil FAQs
What is patchouli oil used for?
Patchouli oil is mostly used as a base note in natural perfumes and in grounding diffuser blends for meditation. Diluted, it also adds a warm, earthy scent to body oils and lotions.
What does patchouli oil smell like?
Patchouli smells deep, earthy, and musky with a hint of sweetness. The scent gets richer and smoother as the oil ages.
What blends well with patchouli oil?
Patchouli balances nicely with floral oils like lavender, rose, and ylang ylang, and with bergamot or frankincense.
How much patchouli oil should you use?
Patchouli is strong, so start small. One or two drops in a diffuser blend is usually plenty, and for topical use, dilute about three drops per teaspoon of carrier oil.
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