Patchouli Essential Oil | Uses, Benefits & Where to Buy (2024)

Patchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a perennial evergreen with violet blooming flowers. Patchouli belongs to the mint (Labiatae) family, and is a close relative of lavender and sage. Patchouli is part of the plant genusPogostemon.¹

Patchouli is believed to originate from the Philippines and today, is grown primarily across Southeast Asia, China and India.¹In China, patchouli has historically been considered a therapeutic herb, and its use has been documented in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 1000 years.^1,2Previously used to treat fatigue, fever, indigestion and headaches, patchouli has been identified to contain over 40 bioactive components.²

Patchouli essential oil is extracted from the stems and leaves of the patchouli plant.¹The golden-brown oil has been noted to have a rich, earthy aroma. While research is ongoing, patchouli essential oil has been noted to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-mutagenic and stress-relieving properties.²

Patchouli Essential Oil Uses

Patchouli essential oil has many uses in contemporary society beyond its more traditional applications. Patchouli’s earthy fragrance is frequently used in perfumes, laundry detergents, soaps, body lotions, and air fresheners.²Create your own natural products with the top patchouli essential oil uses below.

Patchouli Essential Oil Aromatherapy

Known for its calming aroma, patchouli oil is commonly used for aromatherapy. Add 3-5 drops of patchouli essential oil to a diffuser filled with water. Diffuse for up to 30 minutes. For a more complex fragrance, patchouli has been noted to blend well withfrankincense,lavender, andbergamot essential oil.

DIY Patchouli Essential Oil Haircare

The antimicrobial properties of patchouli oil can also promote healthy hair. Mixing 2-3 drops of patchouli essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner can help keep your hair and scalp feeling clean.

Read More: Essential Oils for Dry, Frizzy Hair

Patchouli Essential Oil for Wound Healing

Due to its antimicrobial properties, patchouli essential oil may be used as a natural antiseptic for minor cuts and abrasions.⁴To use, add 5 drops of patchouli essential oil to 1 cup of warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution, and gently dab on the affected area.

NaturalPatchouli Essential Oil Deodorant

For a chemical-free deodorant, add 2 oz. of water and 4 drops of patchouli essential oil to a small spray bottle. Shake to mix the solution together. Spray on underarms for a natural, sweet smell that will help keep you smelling fresh throughout the day.

Skin Softening Patchouli Oil Salve

Patchouli essential oil is noted to have anti-inflammatory properties which may help reduce skin inflammation.³Add 5 drops of patchouli essential oil to 1 Tbsp. of carrier oil or unscented moisturizer and apply to the skin.

NaturalPatchouli Essential Oil Insect Repellent

For a portable insect repellant, add 4 drops of patchouli essential oil to 2 oz. of water in a spray bottle. Spray on exposed skin, avoiding the eyes, nose, mouth and ears.

SoothingPatchouli Essential Oil Bath

Patchouli essential oil is attributed with having the ability to relax the body.⁶ These effects may ease anxiety and stress, which may improve overall mood. Add 10 drops of patchouli essential oil to a warm bath for a soothing soak in the tub.

Therapeutic Patchouli Massage Oil Recipe

Mix 3-5 drops of patchouli oil into 2 Tbsp. of a carrier oil or unscented body lotion. Gently massage the mixture on affected areas for a relaxing massage.

NaturalPatchouli Essential Oil Sleep Aid

Inhalation of patchouli essential oil has been shown to have calming and even sedative properties.⁷Add 5-10 drops of patchouli oil in your home diffuser to help get a good night’s rest. Learn more about other essential oils for sleep.

Benefits of Patchouli Essential Oil

Widely regarded a therapeutic herb, various cultures have been harnessing this plant’s medicinal properties for years. In recent times, scientists have examined the properties of patchouli essential oil to determine its potential health benefits. With valuable insecticide, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, calming and sedative properties, uncover the amazing benefits of patchouli essential oil.

The Benefits of Patchouli Essential Oil are:

1. Natural Insecticidal Properties
2. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
3. Antimicrobial Benefits
4. Anti-Cancer Activity
5. Stress Relieving and Anti Anxiety Benefits

Natural Insecticidal Properties ofPatchouli Essential Oil

In a 2013 study, scientists investigated natural alternatives to synthetic insecticides, which can be harmful to human health. Patchouli essential oil was tested against three species of urban ants to analyze its bio insecticidal activity and repellency. Bioassays of toxicity and repellency were conducted by using the essential oil over the ants while mortality evaluations were performed.³

Results show that the mortality percentage of ants after exposure to the oil was 84%. Patchouli essential oil displayed potent toxicological and repellent properties against all three ant species. Given these results, future studies could show how to help control the insect by further investigating the practical application of patchouli essential oil.³

A separate study conducted in 2005 showed that patchouli essential oil could also be used as an effective mosquito repellant.In laboratory conditions, 0.1ml of undiluted patchouli oil was applied per 30cm²of exposed skin.⁴

Out of the 38 essential oils tested, patchouli essential oil was noted to be one of the most effective oils and provided 2 hours of complete repellency. The other essential oils deemed effective against mosquito bites wereclove(Syzygium aromaticum),citronella(Cymbopogon nardus), and makaen (Zanthoxylum limonella).⁴

Read More: The Best Essential Oils for Insects, Mosquitos and Flies

Anti-Inflammatory Benefits ofPatchouli Essential Oil

Isolated from thePogostemonis Herba(aerial part of the patchouli),patchouli alcohol is a tricyclic sesquiterpene. A 2001 study was conducted to test its pharmacological activities, inspired by the knowledge of Chinese cultures using it in traditional medicine.

In the study, mice with xylene-induced ear edema were treated with 10-40 mg/kg of patchouli alcohol. Edema is when the body’s tissues retain too much fluid and swelling occurs. Patchouli alcohol was shown to significantly inhibit the inflammatory condition. These results suggest patchouli alcohol possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties.⁵

Read More: The Best Essential Oils for Swelling and Inflammation

Antimicrobial Benefits ofPatchouli Essential Oil

In 1999, 52 plant oils were tested for their antimicrobial effects.⁴The essential oils were tested against each strain of bacteria and fungus through an agar diffusion test. Patchouli essential oil was shown to inhibit the growth of the bacteriaStaphylococcus aureus, and the dimorphic (representing two forms) fungusCandida albicans.⁶

Staphylococcus aureusis most commonly seen in skin infections such as folliculitis, impetigo, and cellulitis.Candida albicans is a fungus that is the main cause of an infection calledCandidiasis. Inhibiting the growth of this bacteria and fungus suggests patchouli oil contains important antimicrobial properties.

Anticancer Activity ofPatchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli alcohol is an important compound found in patchouli essential oil, and has been recognized for its neuroprotective, anti-influenza, and anti-inflammatory activities. An in vitro study was conducted in 2013 to investigate whether patchouli alcohol affects the proliferation (rapid growth) and apoptosis (cell death) of human colorectal cancer cells.⁷

In a dose-dependent manner, patchouli oil was found to suppress cell growth and induce apoptosis in the colorectal cancer cells. By decreasing cell growth and increasing apoptosis, these findings suggest patchouli oil exerts anti-cancer activity.⁷

Note:While the preliminary research looks promising, further studies are needed before essential oils can be used as a complementary treatment. Essential oils should not be used as a replacement for proven treatments.

Stress Relieving Properties ofPatchouli Essential Oil

A 2002 study showed that inhalation of patchouli essential oil caused a 40% decrease in relative sympathetic activity.The sympathetic nervous system controls heart rate and blood pressure. It is also responsible for what is commonly titled the fight or flight response. A decrease in sympathetic activity suggests patchouli oil may be a possible method of relax therapy.⁸

By analyzing motor activity in mice, a 2015 study tested the sedative effects of patchouli essential oil. In a dose-dependent manner, inhalation of patchouli extract exhibited significant sedative activity.⁹These findings bolster patchouli essential oil’s calming properties, and provide evidence that patchouli essential oil may be a natural relaxant.

Read More: How to use Essential Oils to Relieve Stress and Anxiety

Side Effects of Patchouli Essential Oil

Patchouli essential oil is generally regarded as safe for inhalation and diluted, topical use. Always follow the instructions and do not exceed the recommended dosage suggested on the label. Dilute the essential oil in a carrier product before topical application.

Essential oils are highly concentrated, and can be toxic if ingested. Never consume patchouli essential oil unless under the direct supervision of a health care provider. Exercise care when using the essential oil on or around children; it is not recommended to use patchouli essential oil during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Where to Buy PatchouliEssential Oil

Previously, high quality essential oils could only be bought at specialty health stores, or through expensive multi-level marketing companies. Now, due to advancements in technology, extremely high grade essential oils can be purchased over the internet at very reasonable prices.