Patchouli Oil: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects & More!
By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shubham Pandey
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Table of Contents
Patchouli oil is a special kind of essential oil. Filled with charm and mystery, it has been used for many years, yet its uses and benefits are still not well-known. However, we are now starting to see what this oil can really do.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at patchouli oil. We’ll discuss about the research done on its potential uses and benefits. We’ll learn about where it comes from and its proposed benefits for our skin and mind, among others.
Did you know?
To truly understand this essential oil, it’s important to know its origin, how it’s made, and its many forms.
The Patchouli plant is native to tropical Asian regions. It belongs to the mint family. Both fresh and dry leaves can be steamed to get the essential oil from this plant. This helps to keep the oil’s special taste and smell.
There are various kinds of patchouli oil. But light and dark patchouli oil are the most known. Light patchouli oil is mild, less intense, and is loved in Western countries. Dark patchouli oil, however, is stronger. It’s mostly used in Asian countries.
You might think patchouli essential oil and patchouli absolute are the same. But they’re not. They’re made using different methods. Patchouli essential oil is made through steam distillation. Patchouli absolute, on the other hand, is made using solvents. It’s usually costlier and used a lot in high-end perfume making.
Most of the patchouli oil’s traits are still hidden. But scientists have found it may be good for the skin, mind, and body. It’s also a great insect repellant.
Patchouli oil is known to be great for the skin. Below we have discussed how it may help reduce acne and eczema. It may also reduce scars and slow aging.
Patchouli oil is said to have the ability to kill microbes. This could be useful for people with acne. It is also said to have the ability to calm the skin and thus may help those with eczema.
Patchouli oil is proposed to aid in wound repairs and reduce scar tissue. It may also improve the look of your scars.
Patchouli oil protects the skin from harm caused by free radicals. These radicals are the main cause of wrinkles.
Patchouli oil is said to stimulate collagen creation. This makes your skin more elastic and less saggy.
Patchouli oil is said to have calming effects and thus boost mental health.
Try diffusing patchouli oil. It may provide a sense of peace and help reduce stress. It’s thought to calm your nerves and bring balance to your feelings.
By diffusing it in your home or workspace, you could feel happier. It is proposed to work by triggering serotonin and dopamine release. These chemicals play a big role in making us feel happy and well.
Patchouli oil is said to have a range of uses for physical health.
As we noted earlier, patchouli oil has strong anti-inflammatory effects. This may be handy for individuals with chronic inflamed conditions. So, if you have bowel disease or arthritis, this oil might be just what you need.
Patchouli oil might be able to help. Whether applied on the skin or diffused, it may ease pain.
Though the research is limited, some studies suggest patchouli oil may play a part in weight loss. It is said to suppress appetite and increase metabolisms and thus aid weight loss.
Patchouli oil is proposed to have the ability to kill bacteria and fungi making it an option against infections. This is why it’s found in many cleaning products and personal care items.
One of the most special things about patchouli oil is how well it works as an insecticide.
Patchouli oil has been shown to repel many types of insects. These include flies, ants, and mosquitos. Because of this, it’s often used in eco-friendly insect repellents.
Patchouli oil may also ease and manage insect bites or stings. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Although studies have shown beneficial properties of this oil, further long-term human research is needed to corroborate these findings.
In the above sections, we discussed the potential benefits of patchouli oil. Below we will discuss how we can make them part of our lives.
It’s a way of using essential oils to feel better, both mind and body.
When patchouli oil is mixed with other essential oils, their benefits may be boosted. Good mixing mates for patchouli oil are cedarwood, frankincense, jasmine, myrrh, rose, and sandalwood.
A nice and simple way to get the benefits of patchouli oil is by using it in a diffuser or you may inhale it right from a cotton ball soaked in diluted oil.
You may apply patchouli oil on your skin to tackle various skin issues.
Adding patchouli oil to your daily skincare regimen. The skin may benefit from it, as it moisturizes and rejuvenates the skin.
Once it’s diluted the right way, patchouli oil can be added to creams, lotions, and balms. This may help deal with skin problems like dryness, acne, and inflammation.
For a calming, therapeutic experience, add patchouli oil to massage oils and bath products. This may help you relax, boost your mood, and ease pain.
Patchouli oil may be useful for making hair care products. It may help manage dandruff, oily scalp, and hair loss.
To get the advantages of patchouli oil for your hair, try adding a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner. This may promote scalp health, balance moisture, and spur hair growth.
Try using patchouli oil by mixing it with a carrier oil and massaging your scalp, it may give you relief. It may also promote overall scalp health.
Beyond aromatherapy and personal care, patchouli oil may be handy around the house.
Patchouli oil may do the job. Just add a few drops to a diffuser or mix it with other pleasant-smelling essential oils. Your home will smell just as you like it.
Thanks to its insect-killing properties, patchouli oil may be used to keep pests away. Add some to sprays, diffusers, or even candles. This way, you will have a great, green way of getting rid of bugs.
Use patchouli oil for house cleaning to make use of its proposed power to kill microbes and mold. A little patchouli oil added to homemade cleaners may keep your home clean and smelling fresh.
Before trying patchouli oil on your skin, make sure it’s diluted with a carrier oil. This will keep your skin safe from harm.
When you’re going to put patchouli oil on your skin, dilute it properly using a suitable carrier oil. A 1-5% mix of essential oil is usually just right for skin application.
Before fully using patchouli oil, you should do a patch test. Just apply a bit of diluted patchouli oil on a bandage and put it on your arm. After two days, remove it and see if your skin is red or irritated.
If you’re going to inhale or diffuse patchouli oil, do it in a well-ventilated area and take breaks every half hour. Long use can cause dizziness, headache, or feeling ill.
For a direct hit of patchouli oil, drip some onto a cotton ball and breathe it in. This way, you may enjoy the benefits of patchouli oil when and where you need it.
Using a diffuser is an easy and great way to get the benefits of patchouli oil. Just add the right amount of drops in it and let the wonderful smell fill your space.
Be careful when mixing patchouli oil with other oils. You need to make sure their smells and benefits go well together.
Patchouli oil goes great with cedarwood, frankincense, jasmine, myrrh, rose, and sandalwood. Try different blends to find the perfect one for you.
Remember to ask your healthcare provider before using patchouli oil. This is very important to do so if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have a health problem or take medications.
While patchouli oil is generally safe to use when you dilute and apply it the right way, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
In rare cases, patchouli oil can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially if used neat or in high amounts. To see how you react to it, do a patch test before applying the oil to your skin.
Diluting patchouli oil properly with a carrier oil can reduce the risk of skin irritation. Always follow the guidelines for essential oil dilution and stop using it right away if you have any bad skin reactions.
If you think you’re allergic to patchouli oil, stop using it right away and ask your healthcare provider what to do. They should help you decide if you can continue using it or try other essential oils.
Some people, like those with blood clotting disorders or who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should be careful when using patchouli oil. If this sounds like you, check with your healthcare provider before using patchouli oil.
We don’t yet have a lot of evidence on using patchouli oil while pregnant or breastfeeding. However, it’s best to ask your healthcare provider before using this or any other essential oil during these times.
Patchouli oil can affect blood clotting. So, if you’re prone to blood clots, on blood thinners, or getting prepped for a big surgery, don’t use it. Always ask your healthcare provider before taking patchouli oil if you have health issues or take medications.
This deep dive into patchouli oil discussed its potential benefits and uses, and how to use it safely. As we learn more about this versatile essential oil, we see more and more ways it may help us. But always remember that using it the right way is very important. Also, consult with your doctor before incorporating it into your daily routine.
Also Read: Spanish Fly: Debunking Myths and Understanding Potential Effects
Store your patchouli oil in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. Make sure the lid is tightly closed to avoid weakening it.
Yes, you may use patchouli oil on sensitive skin. But only when it’s diluted the right way. And remember, always do a patch test first.
Most essential oils are not safe for pets. But patchouli oil is generally okay when used in a diffuser, as long as you don’t overdo it. If you’re in doubt, ask your vet before using patchouli oil at home.
Ingesting essential oils can be risky. It is advisable to not ingest it.
Light patchouli oil is made using a milder process. This gives it a lighter, subtler smell. Dark patchouli oil, on the other hand, has a stronger smell. It’s loved in Asian countries. Both types have the same potential benefits and uses. The main difference lies in their aroma and how they’re made.
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