13 Patchouli Essential Oil Benefits for the Free-Spirited (Updated April 2020)

Patchouli is typically associated with the hippie culture of the 60s. In fact, it is often referred to as “the scent of the sixties," but patchouli is much more than that. Patchouli essential oil is actually a staple in the perfume industry and serves a base note for most perfumes and acts as a fixative.

The patchouli plant is a close relative of the mint, lavender and sage families. It is a highly popular and admired ingredient for perfumes, deodorants and oils because of its uncommon and “beautiful” fragrance. Patchouli essential oil is extracted by the steam distillation of fermented and dried leaves of the patchouli plant. 

A unique characteristic of patchouli essential oil is that unlike essential oils that depreciate in quality over time, it gets better with age. Just like wine!

And just like wine, good patchouli essential oil doesn't just come from anywhere. Our essential oils come from the best natural sources, and we take the utmost care to deliver the highest quality in each bottle. That's what you can expect from Aroma Foundry's patchouli essential oil -- pure and unadulterated quality in every drop.

patchouli essential oil

We did a side-by-side comparison with two of the world's biggest essential oil brands.

essential oil brands

The History of Patchouli Essential Oil

The tropical patchouli plant is originally from Southeast Asia and is common in tropical countries. Currently, it is still cultivated in large amounts across countries and continents, especially in India, Myanmar, Maldives, Mauritius, Malaysia, Seychelles, Philippines, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, Cambodia, Madagascar, South America, and the Caribbean islands.

Patchouli has been a prized plant for thousands of years already. It was so valuable centuries ago that traders in Europe would barter one pound of gold for a pound of patchouli. The Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun was also believed to have arranged to have 10 gallons of patchouli oil buried with him in his tomb.

Patchouli Essential OilPatchouli essential oil is extracted from the plant's leaves and is widely used in the perfume industry.

 

Different cultures had different uses for this essential oil. Back in the day, the Romans used the oil to improve their appetites. Patchouli oil was historically used as medicine for skin problems in many Asian countries, including Japan, Malaysia, and China.

In India, the oil was popularly used as fabric fragrance, a trend that spread to English and French garment-makers for their fabrics.

Patchouli essential oil is an extremely potent and powerful oil that bears many therapeutic benefits. It also has antifungal and antibacterial properties that could positively impact both your physical and your mental health. The oil could be highly beneficial to your everyday life in many ways.

buy essential oils

Uses and Benefits of Patchouli Essential Oil

Here are 13 reasons why you should get your own 100% pure, all-natural patchouli essential oil from the shelves of Aroma Foundry:

 

1. A Natural Antidepressant

Patchouli Essential Oil Can Help with DepressionAccording to the National Institute of Mental Health, over 16 million adults in the US had experienced at least one major episode of depression.

 

Although overlooked more often than not, over the years, depression has been acknowledged as a serious issue that should be addressed. However, even when diagnosed, most people are prescribed antidepressants that may have undesirable side effects. It can also be difficult for some to get the right dosage of antidepressants.

This is alarming, since this could cause more harm than relief in the person suffering. In such circumstances, it is important to do research and try to find natural solutions to health problems.

That's not to say pharmaceutical drugs are completely useless, or that natural solutions can completely replace them. However, natural remedies such as essential oils can help keep our moods and emotions stable without severe or long-lasting side effects.

Patchouli essential oil is widely regarded as a natural antidepressant. When inhaled, the oil's aroma has properties that help boost positive thoughts, help you get rid of stress and other emotional baggage, and help relax your mind and body.

When inhaled, the volatile agents that are present in the oil are absorbed into the bloodstream through the mucus membranes, allowing the release of the happy hormones called serotonin and dopamine. These are neurotransmitters that are associated with positive feelings and are known to help dispel negative feelings such as anxiety or anger.

Due to its effectiveness, patchouli oil is very often found to be used in aromatherapeutic settings. Yogis often use it to help create a calming and grounding ambiance.

2. A Natural Sedative

These days, sleep disorders are becoming more rampant than ever. A lot of us lead very hectic and busy lives, which can sometimes get in the way of relaxation and of giving us that healthy dose of sleep we need to function well. We can all relate to the experience of sleeping many hours yet still feeling exhausted after waking up.

Most of us resort to popping sleeping pills before bedtime to help induce sleep. However, sleeping pills can be tricky and dangerous, and you can become dependent on them.

Inhaling the aroma of patchouli essential oil is a great way to help your body slow down and relax, since the oil has natural sedative ingredients. It helps create the perfect aura and environment to promote better rest and a more fulfilling night's sleep.

3. A Natural Aphrodisiac

Sex-related issues are not as uncommon as some may think. Also, the older people get, the greater the chances that these issues may arise. When faced with problems in the bedroom, such as erectile dysfunction, most people resort to taking the popular blue pill.

Although the pill might get the job done, side effects aren't unheard of. In fact, Viagra is known to have caused headaches and blurry vision in many, and it cannot be used by persons with high blood pressure. 

Fortunately, there's another solution!

For centuries, patchouli essential oil has been known to be a great natural aphrodisiac, which means that it's a great sexual stimulant. It is believed to help boost sensual energy and libido in both men and women by helping stimulate the release of sexual hormones, estrogen, and testosterone. In fact, the oil is said to have been used by Indians in the ancient days in the practice of Tantric Sex.

It is also known as a natural remedy for impotence. Adults who are facing issues in the sack such as erectile dysfunction, low libido, low sex drive or even sex-related anxieties, will be able to help relieve their issues with the use of patchouli essential oil.

4. A Natural Deodorant

essential oils for body odorDon't put your friends in the awkward position of having to tell you that you smell! Photo by Jessica Oliveira.

 

Body odor is an everyday issue that needs resolving. It's always important to stay clean and smell good. Patchouli oil makes for a great and natural deodorant that you should try!

Patchouli essential oil has a very strong and musky fragrance, which is why it is a popular ingredient in perfumes and is used as a natural deodorant in many countries around the globe. The smell of patchouli oil is so strong that it's recommended to dilute it first before using. Its distinctive and strong smell will easily overpower body odors the all-natural way!

In addition, its antifungal and antibacterial properties make it an even better natural deodorant. The smell, however, is sometimes too strong and distinct that some people may find it unpleasant, so use the oil carefully.

 

5. An Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes and any other insects, in general, are a problem especially when they are invading our homes and irritating the hell out of us. How do we get rid of those pesky pests?

Conventionally, we use aerosol insect repellent sprays to get the job done. However, these sprays contain lots of harmful chemicals and often require us to vacate the house because inhaling these sprays can be dangerous. Not to mention, of course, that most of them also smell horrible!

If you're dealing with a mosquito infestation and want to get rid of them hassle-free, give patchouli essential oil a try. Aside from the fact that the oil smells great and gives off a nice and calming vibe, it's extremely effective at keeping insects away.

There are many ways you could go about using patchouli oil. You can use it in a spray and, well, spray it around in the affected areas of your home or office.

You may also add the oil to water and wash your clothes or bed sheets with it. It helps rid the fabric of pests like bed bugs and even lice, all while making your laundry smell like it belongs to royalty!

essential oil recipes

6. A Diuretic

Patchouli essential oil is a natural diuretic. It helps increase the frequency and quantity of urination, thereby helping the body get rid of toxins, salts, uric acid, and extra water. By getting rid of these toxins, you are also lowering blood pressure, reducing your cholesterol levels and weight, and helping increase your appetite.

Using the oil also helps you lower your chances of having stones form in the kidney or gallbladder.

 

7. Can Help Fight Fevers

Fevers are no joke. We've all had them at one point or another. Fevers are actually a symptom of a variety of illnesses, and not a disease itself. A fever is usually a sign that your body is fighting off an illness, most commonly an infection.

Most people often take antifebrile medications when they have a fever. Although this is a typical solution, you are merely managing the symptom and not the illness itself.

The febrifugal properties in patchouli essential oil can help reduce your body's temperature during a fever. The oil does this by helping fight away the very infection that is causing the fever. Patchouli oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammations that develop with a fever, which makes it an efficient remedy. 

Patchouli essential oil a three-in-one solution with its antipyretic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. You aren't just targeting the symptoms of the illness, you'll be targeting the cause of the illness as well.

essential oil gifts

8. Great For Your Skin

We will all age, grow old, and get wrinkles and dry white hair. However, if we can slow down at least part of this process and manage to look 35 instead of 50, why not? Although wrinkles and hair loss are usually considered to be hallmarks of advanced age and hence, “wisdom,” many of us would rather be full of wisdom while still youthful-looking. 

By helping to increase blood circulation in the body, patchouli essential oil can help you maintain a healthier skin. The oil is known to have cytophylactic properties, which means that it assists in the generation of new cells in the body and in the production of red blood cells. This, in turn, leads to good skin.

 

9. A Natural Astringent

As a natural astringent, patchouli essential oil makes a great anti-aging and cellulite remedy. The properties of patchouli essential oil make it a great stimulant for muscle or skin contractions.

The oil aids in strengthening your gums and muscle tone, keeps your skin from sagging, and helps prevent hair loss. Anti-aging creams are a gift, but patchouli essential oil is nature’s wonder. Due to its ability to contract blood vessels, it can also help with stopping hemorrhages.

10. Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The therapeutic benefits of the patchouli essential oil are all-encompassing. As an anti-inflammatory agent, patchouli essential oil is a useful remedy for internal inflammation problems such as arthritis and gout, as well as external inflammations caused by allergic reactions, wounds, and skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema.

 

11. Speeds up Healing

As mentioned earlier, patchouli essential oil has great cell-regenerating properties. If you've cut or wounded yourself, patchouli oil can be a great remedy. The characteristics of the oil allow it to help speed up the healing process of any cuts or wounds,.

The oil is also useful in helping speed up the fading of scar marks, or marks caused by boils, pox, measles, or acne.

 

12. Antifungal Properties

The growth of fungus on the body or any infections such as athlete's foot could be very painful and traumatic. Patchouli essential oil has antifungal properties that allow it to inhibit fungal growth or any infections from spreading. Another great natural and medicinal use of the oil!

13. A Natural Tonic

Patchouli essential oil is a natural tonic. This means that when used, it helps improve your body's general health and performance; it helps boost your metabolism and tune up all your internal systems, including your digestive system, nervous system, and immune system. This can help make you more invincible against any potential infections or viruses.

Given all this, patchouli essential oil can be considered to be a gem among all the other essential oils. After all, it has all these benefits that promote good health for your mind and body. We've discussed a bunch of great benefits but there's a few more that we couldn't help but mention as well.

Patchouli essential oil can:

  • Help relieve constipation.
  • Be used it to heal and prevent insect bites.
  • Be used to help with dandruff problems.
  • Help enhance creativity through inhalation using a diffuser.
  • Activate chakras when you rub it on your forehead, at the back of the base of your skull, lower abdomen, and lower back. Activating your chakras is known to help increase your energy level.

buy essential oils

Precautions

Before you dive into the use of patchouli essential oil to experience its benefits, keep the following precautions in mind:

  • Use patchouli oil in regulated and well-diluted amounts as advised by a qualified aromatherapy practitioner.
  • You should not use patchouli oil on children below the age of 6.
  • Please take professional advice before using the oil if you are pregnant or currently breastfeeding.
  • If used as a sedative, ensure regulated doses as advised by a professional so as not to affect your daily energy levels.
  • Be careful when using patchouli oil topically, since large undiluted quantities may irritate the skin.

 

Recipes

Patchouli Essential Oil Recipes, Uses, BenefitsThe aroma of patchouli essential oil improves as it ages and holds other scents together. These qualities make it an excellent base note for perfume blends.

 

Here are some interesting patchouli essential recipes that you can make at home.

The Happy Inhaler

For an instant mood booster, add 5 drops of patchouli essential oil, 5 drops of bergamot essential oil, and 5 drops of ylang ylang essential oil to your personal pocket inhaler. Take a sniff when you’re feeling blue!

Exfoliating Facial Scrub

Ingredients:

  • 5 drops of patchouli essential oil
  • 5 drops of ylang ylang essential oil
  • 2 drops of spearmint essential oil
  • ¼ cup yogurt
  • ¼ cup oatmeal

How to make and use:

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl with a wooden spoon. Let it sit in the freezer for no more than 5 minutes before using. This will make the mixture more refreshing. Apply gently on your face in a circular motion. Rinse with water and blot the skin dry with a clean soft towel to seal in the moisture. Check yourself out in the mirror. Smile.

Body Lotion

Add 4 drops of patchouli essential oil and 3 drops of lavender essential oil to 4 ounces of unscented body lotion. Use after shower or bath to keep away from dry skin and smell good the whole day!

Insects be Gone

What you’ll need:

  • 1 tablespoon of patchouli essential oil
  • 1 tablespoon of ylang ylang essential oil
  • ½ cup of apple cider vinegar
  • Glass spray bottle

What to do:

Mix all ingredients together in a spray bottle. Shake well. Spray all over the body when mosquitoes are attacking you in some far away tropical island with white sand and pristine blue waters, or at home camping in your backyard. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.

Bring Back the Sixties

Take a trip back to this bygone era and indulge in this great earthy scent that would last all day long.

Ingredients:

What to do:

Mix all the oils together in an empty roll-on perfume bottle. Apply on the wrist and the base of the neck when wanted.

 

Check out a variety of essential oils you can use in these recipes.

buy essential oils

Summary

Most of us go the extra mile (sometimes literally) to keep our body in top shape. We all can’t afford to get sick these days. It’s not only a financial burden, but it affects our daily life routine as well.

Thus, it is essential for us to be informed about essential oils (pun intended) and how it can bring a ton of benefits to our lives.

Oils like patchouli essential oil can help bring balance to your health and your overall life. The mood-lifting ability of patchouli oil can help you relax and enjoy your life more, help you gain a clearer train of thought so that you can function better mentally, rid you of a number of health problems, maintain your looks, and optimize your internal systems so you can keep going and do what you do.

Wholesale Essential Oils

Not all essential oils are created equal. Make sure that yours are pure and all-natural. At Aroma Foundry, this is our guarantee. Our patchouli essential oil is 100% unadulterated and undiluted. It is hand-bottled in California in small batches to ensure quality. Get yours now!

References

  1. “15 Amazing Benefits Of patchouli Essential Oil” Organic Facts, https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-patchouli-essential-oil.html.
  2. “What Benefits Can You Derive From patchouli Oil?” Mercola, http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/patchouli-oil.aspx.
  3. “Patchouli essential oil information” Esoteric Oils, http://essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/patchouli.htm#Extraction.
  4. “10 Things You Might Not Know About Patchouli” Lush, https://www.lushusa.com/article_10-things-know-patchouli.html.
  5. “History Of patchouli” Patchouli, http://www.patchouliplant.com/history-patchouli.html.
View all resources

 

Author Profile

Multiple ContributorsSee more Our articles>>>

They say it takes a village to raise a child. Sometimes, it takes a team to deliver comprehensive information on the all-natural solutions offered by essential oils.

See more Our articles>>>

  1. Background
  2. Uses and Benefits of Patchouli Essential Oil
    1. A Natural Antidepressant
    2. A Natural Sedative
    3. A Natural Aphrodisiac
    4. A Natural Deodorant
    5. An Insect Repellent
    6. A Diuretic
    7. Can Help Fight Fevers
    8. Great For Your Skin
    9. A Natural Astringent
    10. Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
    11. Speeds Up Healing
    12. Antifungal Properties
    13. A Natural Tonic
  3. Precautions
  4. Recipes
  5. Summary
  6. References