The oil extracted from the patchouli plant is useful for treating several health uncertainties without any qualms because of it being organic in nature. Given below are some of the health concerns that can be treated with patchouli essential oil.

Patchouli oil has antioxidant properties that can rid the skin of free radicals. The excess presence of free radicals can cause rapid ageing. Patchouli oil can eliminate the radicals and give the skin a refreshed tone. Besides being an antioxidant, the mild cleansing effect of the oil can clear the pores, thus allowing the skin to breathe. The active ingredient in patchouli, Azulene can reduce inflammation and remove the redness of the skin due to acne or allergies. It also acts as an excellent moisturizer. The oil also has sedative properties that are useful in treating diseases such as arthritis and gout. These diseases are the result of long term inflammation. The sedative property of the oil can relieve the pain in the affected region.

Once the scalp problems invade, it is quite difficult to get rid of it, unless chemical products are used to treat the problems. Patchouli oil is an organic solution for solving scalp problems. How can patchouli solve the scalp issues? It has antibacterial properties that can tackle several scalp disorders including dandruff and eczema. Other health concerns are hair loss and itching in the scalp. Patchouli oil’s astringent nature helps it contract the skin cells and pores, thus preventing or reducing hair fall. Its anti-inflammatory property reduces the redness and itching on the scalp. It also treats wounds effectively and faster, with an added advantage of stopping the fungi growth near the wound. Patchouli oil and its blends are effective in treating scalp and hair problems.

Patchouli oil is one of the popular essential oils used in aromatherapy. Those who did aromatherapy with this oil felt less anxious and stressful. It also helps with sleep quality because of its sedative property. The aroma of the oil is inhaled when dispersed through a diffuser. Other ways to inhale the aroma is by dropping a few drops on the pillow cover or on a handkerchief. Ensure that the ratio of oil to water is correct to get the best experience of aromatherapy. And of course, the blends are equally effective.

Inhaling the scent of patchouli has a balancing effect on emotions as it calms the nerves and lowers the quantity of stress causing hormone called cortisol. Adding a few drops of the oil in the bath tub after a hectic day’s work is effective in lowering anxiety and uplifting the mood. The antidepressant effect that the oil has on the senses releases the hormone dopamine. The multitude of tasks done by the aroma of the oil makes it a good anti-anxiety oil. Again, a few drops of the oil can be added to the color of the shirt or on a hanky to ensure that the scent is present every time.

Popping pills to get good sleep is a strict no and those suffering from sleepless nights must refrain from doing so. Patchouli essential oil and its blends are natural in giving a good night’s sleep. The sedative property induces serenity that releases good hormones and reduces negative thoughts and emotions. Besides treating insomnia, patchouli also sharpens cognitive skills and concentration. The earthy and musky scent of the oil normalizes sleep patterns in those affected with sleep disorders and insomnia. Those who use patchouli also rave about its aphrodisiac property, and there is no doubt that copulation is a good way to de-stress and sleep well.

Patchouli is a natural oil extract with a woody and musky aroma. It is widely used in aromatherapy because of its natural fragrance which is absorbed in the brain, thus triggering a series of steps. It calms the nerves and produces more dopamine. It also regulates the secretion of serotonin. Both these steps help bring down anxiety and enhance sleep quality. The essential oil has a strong fragrance because of its concentrated form. It has to be diluted before using in aromatherapy. Although, a few drops of the oil can be added to the pillow to get the scent while sleeping. Overusing the aroma might result in nausea and headache.

Patchouli has analgesic properties and is used as a pain reliever. One of its uses is in reducing the soreness in muscles after workout. Travelling can also stiffen the joints and cause muscle pain. A few drops of patchouli oil in the bath water can calm the sore muscles. It can also be mixed with carrier oil and massaged on the area of the pain for a few minutes. The pain and soreness will disappear and leave behind a musky scent. It can also be applied to regions of minor physical wounds. Being an antiseptic, it can remove the bacteria and fungus from the wound and lower the pain.

The data available on essential oil for weight loss is limited, but a few researchers have suggested that it, in fact, helps with the weight loss journey. Essential oil in conjunction with exercise and diet plans can reduce weight. One way in which it can reduce weight is by lowering oxidative stress that is known to cause obesity in the long run. A logical deduction is its sedative property. Physical trainers stress on the importance of sleep for recovery after workout, and what better way to get good sleep than to use patchouli essential oil. Edible essential oils can suppress the cravings for junk food as well.

These are many of the benefits and uses of patchouli essential oil. This oil extracted from the plant, predominant in Southeast Asia, is very popular in aromatherapy and is used along with several blends. Using this oil is safe, but there are a few things to know before using it and few instructions to be followed.

Consuming the oil, especially the raw oil, is dangerous. The oil can cause dizziness, nausea, and even fainting. If ingested, one should not try to vomit it out forcefully. This may cause the lungs to aspirate. The best way to deal with the problem is to visit a doctor.

This usually happens when the instruction on the bottle is not read carefully. Applying the raw oil on the face and skin is not recommended. Patchouli oil must always be mixed with a neutral oil such as coconut or olive oil and then applied directly to the skin. The side effects of direct application are redness and irritation. The ideal remedy would be to wash the affected area (eye or skin) with cold water. In case it went to the eye, it is advisable not to rub the region, and to contact a doctor.

Usually inhaling an essential oil is not risky, however, if the quantity used in aromatherapy is more, then dizziness and coughing would be the first symptoms. In such cases, it is recommended to get out of the room and come to an open area.

The patchouli oil may contain some traces of pesticides if it were used in excess during cultivation. In case of any discomfort, discard the bottle and buy from a reliable source.

Similar to other products, always store the oil in a cool and dry place away from the reach of children.

The research and data available on patchouli essential oil is minimal, and hence it should not be used by pregnant women and on infants. Children should also be kept away from the oil till an age when their immunity has developed.