Patchouli Leaf and Powder Profile
Also known as- Pogostemon cablin, Patchouly, Stink Weed, Pucha Pot, and Putcha-Pat
Introduction
Most people know patchouli as the ever popular incense scent from the Sixties, when it seemed to be every flower child's favorite perfume. The scent has a reputation as an aphrodisiac, and is said to attract the opposite sex. It's slightly musty, pungent smell is unmistakable and pervasive, and it was often used as a fixative for other scents, or to mask more objectionable scents.
Most people, however, are not aware of the other uses of patchouli. The furry-leafed shrub grows to about four feet in its native Malaysia, but can be grown as a houseplant throughout the world if you avoid the cold. Over the centuries, patchouli has had numerous medicinal uses. Among the conditions it has been used to treat are dysentery, diarrhea, colds without fevers, vomiting, and nausea. The essential oil may be used to treat acne, dry skin, fungal infections, dermatitis, dandruff and eczema. The fresh leaves can help aid healing in burns, and in aromatherapy, it is used to calm nerves and control appetite, relieve depression, stress and lack of sexual interest.
Constituents
esquiterpenes patchoulol (35%) and bulnesene.
Parts Used
Dried leaves, and the essential oil
Typical Preparations
Essential oil, infusion of leaves as a tea (although rarely) in topical applications and as an incense.
Summary
Patchouli enjoys the distinction of being both well-known and lesser known. Most are familiar with its scent and its uses in aromatherapy, but not with the wide range of conditions it may help. There is little conclusive research to support the use of patchouli in medicinal preparations, but its properties are well known. In addition to its medicinal and perfumery uses, patchouli also repels insects, and is often used in the east to scent bed linens and keep fleas and other pests at bay.
Precautions
Its internal use is not recommended unless by a qualified practitioner
