Patchouli has been known since ancient times throughout Asia; for its medicinal and antidepressant properties. It was used extensively in India; to scent, fix the color, and accelerated the drying time of inks and also scent and protected shawls and fabrics. In fact, you could determine genuine Kashmir fabrics by the scent of Patchouli. It was also used by Persians and Arabs alike to protect their precious handmade carpets from moths and other insects. In Victorian England, people would only buy shawls from India if they smelled of Patchouli, as its scent became associated with wealth and luxury. Patchouli became synonymous with the US popular culture of the 60’s and earlier 70’s.
Patchouli is considered a heavy oil and as a base note in aromatherapy; is used often in cosmetics and perfumery. In fact it is one of the best perfume fixatives and is used in one out of every three perfume blends. Some of best selling Patchouli smelling perfumes including: Tom Ford White Patchouli, Reserve Perry Ellis for Women, Flowerbomb by Viktor & Rolf for Women, & Vanilla Patchouli by Molinard for Women. Often used for its aphrodisiac properties, Patchouli essential oil is often used in massage oils to evoke strong emotional response from both men and women. Another pleasing quality is that Patchouli is one of the few oils, that like wine improve with age.
Patchouli has a number of therapeutic uses in skin care. Its astringent properties can help prevent sagging skin, by tightening skin and causing muscles and nerves to contract. Its cytophylactic properties, protect against lytic agents that lead to membrane disorganization and breakdown, therefore it is beneficial in skin cell regeneration and conditions such as dermatitis and eczema.
Note: Base
Strength of Aroma: Medium
Aroma: Warm, rich, musky, exotic, and earthy scent with fruity undertones
Properties: antidepressant, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, cytophylactic, deodorant, digestive, diuretic, febrifuge, fungicide, insecticide, sedative and tonic
Uses/Benefits: rejuvenates skin cells, dry skin, aging and mature skin, dry skin prone to acne, dermatitis, eczema, scar tissue, wounds and burns, headaches, dandruff, stress and depression, varicose veins, athletes foot and yeast infections, tension, and weight reduction
Blends well with: Bergamot, cedarwood, cinnamon, clove, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, Lemon, litsea cubeba, orange, petitgrain, pine, tangerine, tea tree, and ylang ylang
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