Patchouli oil (sometimes spelled Patchouly) is obtained from the steam distillation of the leaves of the odoriferous plant, native to India. This is a scent people tend to either love or hate; it is earthy, with an aroma that improves with age. This particular Patchouli is dark, warm, well-aged, and has been loved by folks that never before have appreciated this wonderful plant. It has a fantastic, deep aroma not often found in other oils that may a little younger.

As a crop, the leaves of the plant are hand picked two or three times a year, with the best oil-producing plant being harvested in the wet season. Leaves are dried for three days and partially fermented before distillation of the oil. Patchouli oil has been used in India for years for medicinal purposes, but chiefly as an aphrodisiac and to perfume cloth. The aroma of Patchouli in homepsun cloth was so pervasive that garment makers importing their wares were obliged to scent their imitations for the local marketplace.

Patchouli oil is considered an excellent base note and fixative in perfumery, being a component in many famous perfumes. As a fixative, it slows the evaporation of other, more volatile oils so that their aroma may be released over a longer period of time. A little can be used in natural perfume blends, adding that special deep and earthy aroma. It mixes well with many essential oils, with almost all common oils being mentioned across a variety of sources – these include Vetiver, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Frankincense, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Myrrh, Jasmine, Rose, Citrus oils, Clary Sage, Lemongrass, Geranium and Ginger.

Energetically, this oil is considered warm in nature. It may help ground and stabilize the the overanxious mind, bringing one back to one's body. Long considered an aphrodisiac, it may work through this relaxing, re-establishing connection to one's sensuality. The aroma may also uplift and work as an antidepressant for some, and has been considered to bring about a sense of spiritual nourishment.

As if this were not enough, Patchouli is thought to be a bringer of prosperity and abundance. Perhaps by allowing one to open to these possibilities energetically, the oil is used in ceremonies and prayers by those in need of financial or other type of infusion in their lives. One may simply close their eyes, imagine the abundance they need, and inhale the oil’s aroma for a few seconds.

Patchouli essential oil is thought to be antiseptic, antibiotic, and anti-fungal, but its primary traditional medicinal usage is for skin conditions such as oily skin and stimulating the growth of healthy hair. It has has been described as 'very beneficial for the skin and may help prevent wrinkles or chapped skin.' Also indicated as a vein tonic, and may be a digester of toxic material in the body.

For a few simple blends, try:

3 parts Patchouli and 1 part Rosemary Cineol. This is a wonderfully uplifting blend combining the deep earthiness of Patchouli with the invigorating aroma of Rosemary. This can certainly be worn as a perfume, or used in a diffuser.

When the going gets tedious, try brightening with 3 parts Coriander, 2 parts Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. This may uplift the spirits and remind one of the joy to be found in life.

For the sensually insecure, try 1 part Geranium , 1 part Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. A beautiful yet simple blend for getting comfortable in one’s own skin.

It may take a little education, but many who claim to have a dislike for Patchouli oil may truly enjoy it when finally getting to sample a properly aged or beautifully blended oil.