Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)
Location: Patchouli is cultivated in Brazil, China, India, Indonesia and the Philippines.
Extraction: Steam distilled from the dried leaves after fermentation.
Colour and Odour: The essential oil is a deep amber colour with a persistent, musty, earthy and exotic aroma that is also very penetrating. This essential oil improves with age.
Description: A bushy plant growing about 90cm with broad oval shaped leaves and purplish flowers.
Background: Patchouli has long been prized for its strong scent. Used to scent shawls in India, this practice was copied by Paisley weavers after patchouli was introduced to Britain in 1820. It is important in perfumery as an excellent fixative. Patchouli was very popular as a personal scent in England during the "psychedelic" sixties.
Properties: Sedative, tonic, anti-inflammatory.
Uses
Nervous System- Of value in nervous debility, strengthening the nerves.
Skin- Treats cracked skin and weeping sores, having mild anti-inflammatory properties. Also suitable for skin allergies.
Emotion- Patchouli has a sedative effect useful in anxiety states.
