The warm, rich fragrance of patchouli reminds many people of the 1960s and ’70s, but its usefulness extends far beyond the creation of seductive perfumes and incense blends. Valuable for treating a wide range of skin conditions, easing fever, and creating natural insect repellent, it is an excellent addition to your collection of essential oils. Don’t worry about whether you’ll be able to use it up before its shelf life is over; unlike most essential oils, patchouli improves with age.
APPLICATION METHODS
- Use in the bath or shower for absorption and aromatherapy benefits
- Diffuse for aromatherapy benefits
- Massage, diluted, for physical ailments
- Neat for athlete’s foot and insect bites
- Use with compress for muscle pain and stiffness
PRECAUTIONS
Patchouli essential oil is generally considered safe.
SLEEP SOUNDLY AND KEEP THE BEDBUGS AWAY WITH PATCHOULI OIL. Patchouli essential oil infused imported cashmere shawls with its scent en route to England in Victorian times, and ladies of fashion would not buy the shawls without this signature fragrance. The oil was placed between the shawls to prevent moths from damaging the expensive merchandise, not as a scent. In 2005, a study in Phytotherapy Research proved that patchouli oil also repels other bugs such as mosquitos and bedbugs. Placing the satchels in beds to keep bedbugs away also helps promote sleep. This sedative effect was outlined in a 2011 study in the Journal of Natural Medicines.
MEDICINAL USES
Acne Antibacterial Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial Antiseptic Antiviral Anxiety Aphrodisiac Appetite suppressant Athlete’s foot Bactericidal Cellulite Decongestant Depression Dermatitis Diuretic Eczema Emotional balance Fever Insect bites Insect repellant Laxative Meditation Scarring Skincare