Patchouli Essential Oil – Uses and Properties
Patchouli Essential Oil – Uses and Properties
To obtain an essential oil of Patchouli, it is necessary to start from the leaves of patchouli. The patchouli or pasciulì (Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth., 1848) is a plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family (such as lavender, mint, etc.) of the tropical regions of Asia and very cultivated in China, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, etc. .. The process that leads to the production of Patchouli essential oil is by distillation and through a very delicate procedure. The main active ingredients that are part of it are: germacene A, which is an active ingredient known for its germicidal and antibacterial properties, patsciulì alcohol (known as patchouli camphor) and norpatchoulenol (terpene) which is what gives the typical fragrance of the essence.
Patchouli essential oil is well known and widely used for its stimulating and toning properties. It is used for states of fatigue of the feet after a long walk, to treat acne naturally and against chapping and damaged skin. Surely one of the techniques that has made him know more is that of aromatherapy and diffusers of essential domestic oils, to scent the environment and eliminate bad smells.
Some studies claim that the essential oil of patchouli is a good natural repellent to remove insects. Since 1992, some researches have already reported how patchouli essential oil is effective as a repellent for different types of insects, especially for Formosan subterranean termites. In aromatherapy Patchouli essential oil is used as a stimulant, in cases of stress; it is however often used with other essential oils such as lavender, rose, sandalwood and bergamot to give further aromatic and therapeutic properties.
According to some, Patchouli essential oil is an excellent aphrodisiac.
However, its most frequent therapeutic uses are against acne. It is sometimes added to home-made creams or for shock therapy, or in combination with Tea Tree essential oil. It can also be used against chapping, for scalp care and as a tonic.