This timeless aromatic plant is believed to come from a Hindi word meaning 'to scent'. The leaves were used to protect fabrics when they were shipped from the East during the 1800's. There are three species of patchouli: Pogostemon cablin, Pogostemon heyneanus & Pogostemun hortensis. The 'cablin' one is the most popular & is the one cultivated for it's essential oil. It's therapeutic qualities are superior to the other two. It's part of the mint family & only the leaves are used. The scent is a warm, musky, deep woody scent. It is of course associated with the hippie culture way back when, but has been in use since the 1800's, especially in Europe.
It's indispensable to the fragrance industry. It's derived through steam distillation from the leaves. There are so many more benefits to it than I ever thought. I just love it's scent!!!
Patchouli is anti-microbial & research shows it's effective against 2 strains of the Staph family & 1 from the Salmonella family. It's an anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, antiseptic & a mild sedative.
It's a great anti-oxidant especially where skin is concerned & is great for many skin conditions such as dermatitis, acne, dry & cracked skin. It's an insecticide & repellant for house flies, mosquitoes, termites & urban ants.
It can help with stress, anxiety & mental clarity. It can boost mood especially in dementia patients. Relieves depression, controls appetite, can help with grounding & balancing.
Patchouli blends well with other resins and floral essential oils. Never use it undiluted.
Don't use if you are taking blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder or have recently or will have surgery.
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