Patchouli Essential Oil - 10ml/ .33 oz
Botanical Name: Pogostemon cablin
Country of Origin: Indonesia
Parts Used: Leaves
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Note Classification: Base
Aroma: Earthy, smoky, spicy and musky
Overview:
If you’ve ever wondered why hippies seem so obsessed with patchouli, we’re about to clue you in.
Actually, the Western world was turned on to patchouli long before the sixties. As far back as the 19th century, Europeans were decking themselves out in imported threads from India, where patchouli has been used for thousands of years as a moth repellant. The smell was so widely associated with “authentic” Eastern imports that counterfeiters were forced to start adding it to their knock-offs as part of their hustle.
Sixties hippie counterculture reignited an interest in Eastern religions and philosophies in the West, thus re-popularizing East Indian decor and in turn, patchouli. The fact that many Westerners find the smell rather disagreeable probably helped separate the out-of-touch chicken heads from the cool cats who were really “with it.” And of course, some whiz kid eventually figured out patchouli’s grassy undertones effectively covered up more than just BO...
As an essential oil, patchouli is unique in that aromatherapists regard it as both calming and stimulating. This effect is thought to be the result of patchouli’s earthy, grounding properties, which are said to improve the connection between mind and body. This may also be why patchouli is rumored to help get your mojo workin’... you dig??
So whether you’re a true head or staying straight is more your bag, patchouli is sure to put everyone in touch with their Inner Flower Child.
