Patchouli oil is an essential oil derived from the leaves and stems of the patchouli plant, which is a type of aromatic herb. The leaves and stems of the plant are harvested and allowed to dry out, and then undergo a distillation process to extract the essential oil. Patchouli oil has many uses, including:
Positive:
- Providing feelings of relaxation and helping to ease stress or anxiety
- Helping with oily hair or dandruff
- Controlling appetite
- Using as an insecticide, antifungal, or antibacterial agent
- Using as an additive in low concentrations to flavor foods like candies, baked goods, and beverages
- Grounding, balancing, calming, and peace-inducing oil
- Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties
- Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties
- Analgesic properties
Negative:
- Patchouli oil should not be consumed without consulting a medical professional
Patchouli oil contains several active chemical components that contribute to its therapeutic benefits, including patchoulol, α-patchoulene, β-patchoulene, α-bulnesene, α-guaiene, caryophyllene, norpatchoulenol, seychellene, and pogostol. These constituents make it ideal for use in cosmetics, aromatherapy, massage, and in-home cleansing products to purify the air as well as surfaces. Patchouli oil is also used as a mosquito repellent, for the common cold, cancer, headache, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
