Patchouli
Pogostemon cablin
Summary:
Patchouli is a distinctive herb known for its rich, earthy scent. Native to Southeast Asia, it has a long history of use in both traditional medicine and perfumery. While patchouli is most famous for its essential oil, the herb itself has many benefits, especially when used as a part of a holistic wellness routine. Patchouli has been used for centuries in aromatherapy, skincare, and even as a natural insect repellent. Whether in tea, as an essential oil, or dried and used in sachets, patchouli’s calming and grounding properties make it a versatile herb to have in your wellness toolkit.
You might need patchouli if . . .
- You’re looking for a natural way to reduce stress.
- You need some help with skin conditions.
- You want to improve your sleep quality and create a calming environment.
- You’re looking for a nice grounding herb to balance your emotions.
- You are seeking a beneficial essential oil to add to your DIY insect repellent.
Benefits of Patchouli
Patchouli may be best known for its distinctive fragrance, but this herb offers many benefits for the body and the mind.
- A natural stress reliever: Patchouli has long been used in aromatherapy for its calming and grounding effects. Its ability to help reduce stress and improve mood makes it a great addition to your self-care routine. Studies have shown that patchouli oil can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing heart rate and promoting relaxation!
- Skin soothing and healing: Patchouli is often used to improve skin health, whether in its dried herb form or as an essential oil. The herb is known for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties, making it useful for skin irritations. It can help soothe inflammation and promote cellular regeneration.
- Antibacterial & antifungal: Patchouli has natural antimicrobial properties. It’s often used to fight bacteria and fungi, which is why it’s commonly added to natural cleaning products and skin care formulas.
- Insect repellent: Patchouli’s strong, musky aroma is effective in keeping insects at bay. It can be used in natural pest repellents to deter mosquitoes, fleas, and other bugs. With its fragrant leaves, the patchouli plant can also serve as a natural bug deterrent when grown in the garden.
- Grounding & emotional balance: In traditional herbalism, patchouli is used as a grounding herb to help balance emotions and bring mental clarity. It’s often used in meditation practices to calm the mind and enhance focus. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, patchouli can help you feel more centered.
Common Ways to Use Patchouli
Patchouli can be used in a variety of ways to take advantage of its therapeutic benefits. Whether as the herb or essential oil, here’s how you can incorporate patchouli into your daily routine:
- Patchouli tea: You can steep dried patchouli leaves in hot water to make a soothing tea. This tea can be a great way to relieve stress or improve digestion. Drinking patchouli tea may also help reduce sleeplessness or racing thoughts. Simply steep a few dried leaves in hot water for 5-10 minutes, strain, and sip!
- Topical applications:
- For skin health: You can use dried patchouli leaves to make a poultice or infuse them in oils to create soothing topical oils for irritated skin.
- Patchouli oil: If you prefer to use the essential oil, it’s often diluted with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) and applied to the skin. It’s especially beneficial for dry or sensitive skin and can be used in moisturizers or homemade balms to reduce inflammation.
- Inhalation and aromatherapy:
- Essential oil diffuser: To reduce stress and calm your mind, diffuse patchouli essential oil in a diffuser or create your own calming blend with lavender or sandalwood.
- DIY Sachets: You can use dried patchouli leaves in sachets to keep your drawers or closet smelling fresh. The scent is also said to have mood-boosting properties and can help create a calming atmosphere in your home.
- Natural Pest Repellent:
- Sprays: You can make insect repellent by diluting patchouli essential oil in water or witch hazel. Spray it on your body/clothes or around your outdoor spaces to keep pests at bay.
- Potted plants: Growing patchouli in your garden or near an outdoor seating area can help naturally repel mosquitoes and other insects.
Growing and Foraging Information
| Scientific Name | Pogostemon cablin |
| Common Name | Patchouli |
| Hardiness Zones | 10-11 (It’s tropical and best in warm climates.) |
| Soil Type | Rich, well-draining |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Watering | Keep the soil consistently moist. |
| Planting | You can start from seeds or buy young plants at a nursery. It grows well in containers. |
| Height | Typically 1-3 feet tall |
| Harvest | You can harvest the leaves once the plant is mature. |
| Pests and Diseases | Aphids, whiteflies, fungal diseases, and mildew are possible. |
Safety Concerns
Drug Interaction: Patchouli, especially in essential oil form, is generally safe for most people when used in moderation. However, as with any essential oil, it’s important to use it with caution if you’re on medication. If you’re on any medication, especially for skin conditions or mental health, consult with your healthcare provider before using patchouli essential oil or taking it in large amounts.
Breastfeeding and Pregnancy: Patchouli is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used in small amounts, such as in teas, essential oils, or body care products.
Other Concerns: Topical use: Always properly dilute if you are using the essential oil.
Select Studies About Patchouli
Potential benefits of patchouli alcohol in prevention of human diseases: A mechanistic review
Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of Patchouli Oil
