Health Benefits

Health benefits of Patchouli

Patchouli scientifically known as Pogostemon cablin is an herb belonging to Lamiaceae Martinov (Mint family) and is used in aromatherapy, perfumes, and other fragrances. The plant is native to island region of Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, Indonesia, the Malay Peninsula, Malaysia, New Guinea, and the Philippines. It is also found in many parts of North East India, china and Vietnam. It is extensively cultivated in tropical climates around the world, especially in Asia, Madagascar, South America, and the Caribbean. Some popular common names of the plants are Green Leaf Patchouli, Indian Mint, Indian Patchouli, Stinkweed, Patchouli Herb, Pucha-Pat, Scented Geranium, Pogostemon Patchouli, Pucha-Pat, Stink Grass, Patchouli Plant, Clove Basil, Perfume Plant, Pachouli, Smuggler’s Herb, Patchouly, Cablin, Pogostemon, and Treemoss.

The genus name “Pogostemon” is derived from the Greek words “pogon” (πώγων), which means “beard,” and “stemon” (στήμων), which means “thread” or “stamen.” This name likely refers to the appearance of the stamens in the flowers of some species within this genus. The species name “cablin” is less clear in its origin, but it is commonly believed to be derived from the Malay word “kapulaga” or “kabulaga,” which refers to a type of aromatic plant. This plant is known for its fragrant leaves, which are used in the production of patchouli oil. The word “cablin” may have been a distortion or adaptation of this Malay term. It has been used traditionally in various ways. In Southeast Asia, it was used to scent fabrics and repel moths and insects. It became popular in the West during the 19th century when it was used to scent fabrics imported from the East. In traditional medicine, it was applied topically to treat skin conditions and wound.

Patchouli Facts

Patchouli Quick Facts
Name: Patchouli
Scientific Name: Pogostemon cablin
Origin Island region of Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, Indonesia, the Malay Peninsula, Malaysia, New Guinea, and the Philippines
Colors Initially green turning to brown to dark brown or black as mature
Shapes Nutlets are very small, typically less than 1 cm (0.4 inches) in length
Major nutrients • Patchoulol
• α-Bulnesene
• Sesquiterpenes
• Sesquiterpene lactones
• Paecilomyces variotii
Health benefits Skin Health, Stress Reduction, Respiratory Health, Blood Circulation, Pain Relief, Wound Healing, Insect Repellent, Improved Sleep, Hormone Regulation, Hair Care, Support for Emotional Healing
Name Patchouli
Scientific Name Pogostemon cablin
Native Island region of Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, Indonesia, the Malay Peninsula, Malaysia, New Guinea, and the Philippines
Common Names Patchouli, Green Leaf Patchouli, Indian Mint, Indian Patchouli, Stinkweed, Patchouli Herb, Pucha-Pat, Scented Geranium, Pogostemon Patchouli, Pucha-Pat, Stink Grass, Patchouli Plant, Clove Basil, Perfume Plant, Pachouli, Smuggler’s Herb, Patchouly, Cablin, Pogostemon, Treemoss
Name in Other Languages Afrikaans: Patchouli
Albanian: Pachuli, patchouli
Amharic: Patchouli (pəˈCHo͞olē)
Arabic: Bachouli (باتشولي), Al Batchouli (الباتشولي), albatshuli (الباتشولي), bitshul (بتشول)
Armenian: Pachuli (Փաչուլի), pach’uli (պաչուլի)
Assamese: Pochuli (পচুলি)
Azerbaijani: Paculi, Paçuli poqostemonu
Basque: Patxuli
Belarusian: Pačuli (пачулі)
Bengali: Pechuli (প্যাচুলি), Peyacholi (প্যাচলি), Pachuli (পাচুলি), Bhāratīẏa gulmabiśēṣa (ভারতীয় গুল্মবিশেষ)
Bodo: Pachouli (पाचौलि)
Bosnian: Pačuli
Bulgarian: Pachuli (Пачули)
Burmese: Pachuli (ပချုပ်လီ), aahkyit (အချစ်), s naut pahchcaee (သနပ်ပစ္စည်း)
Catalan: Patxulí
Chinese: Yìndù yán lán cǎo (印度岩兰草), Guǎng xiāng (广香), guǎng huò xiāng (广藿香), Dàoshǒu xiāng (到手香), Guǎng lěi xiāng (广蕾香), Guǎng huò xiāng (广藿香), Huò xiāng (藿香)
Croatian: Pačuli,
Czech: Pačuli, pačule obecná
Danish: Patchouli
Dutch: Patchouli
English: Patchouli, Patchouli-plant, Patchouly, patschuli,
Esperanto: Patchouli
Estonian: Patsuli
Filipino: Patsuli, Patsulay, patchouli
Finnish: Patšuli, patchouli
French: Patchouli
Garhwali: Pachuli (पचुली)
Georgian: Pachuli (პაჩული),
German: Patchouli, Patschulistrauch, Patschuli-Pflanze, Indisches Patschuli
Greek: Patsouli (Πατσουλί), Patsooli (Πατσούλι)
Gujarati: Pacholi (પચોલી), Pēcaulī (પેચૌલી)
Hausa: Pacholi, patchouli
Hebrew: Pachuli (פַּצ’וּלִי)
Hindi: Pachauli (पच्चौली), Pacculī (पच्चुली), Sugandharā (सुगंधरा), Pachi, Pachauli, Pachapat, Patchouli, Pachila, Kattam, Pachetene, Panch, Suganda pandi
Hungarian: Pacsuli
Icelandic: Patsúli, patchouli
Igbo: Pachuli
Indonesian: Kayu Putih, Pachuli, nilam, pokok nilam
Irish: Patchouli, paitsiúilí
Italian: Patchouli, patchuli
Japanese: Pachori (パチョリ)
Javanese: Patchouli
Kannada: Pachouli (ಪಚೌಲಿ), Pyācauli (ಪ್ಯಾಚೌಲಿ ), Paccetene (ಪಚ್ಚೆತೆನೆ)
Kashmiri: Pachuli (پچولی)
Kazakh: Pachuli (пачули)
Khasi: Paicholi (पैचोली)
Khmer: Pachouli (បាចុយលី)
Konkani: Pachuli (पचूळी)
Korean: Paechulli (패츌리), Paechuri (패추리), pachulli (파출리)
Kurdish: Paçûlî, patchouli
Lao: Patchouli (pəˈcho͞olē)
Laotian: Pan chuli (ປານຈູລີ)
Latin: Patchouli
Latvian: Pačūlija
Lithuanian: Pachulis, Paciulis, Tikrasis pačiulis
Latvian: Pacūlijs, Pacūlija
Macedonian: Pachuli (Пачули)
Maithili: Pachuli (पचूली)
Malagasy: Patchouli
Malay: Pokok Pachouli, nilam, Pokok Nilam
Malayalam: Pachchuli (പച്ചുളി), pācca ou li (പാച്ച ou ലി), pacholi (പച്ചോളി)
Maltese: Patchouli
Manipuri: Pachouli (ꯍꯨꯄꯨꯌꯣꯏ)
Marathi: Pachouli (पॅचौली)
Mizo: Ṭawih
Mongolian: Pachuli (Пачули), pačuli (пачули)
Nepali: Pyauchauli (प्याचौली), Pyacholi (प्याचोली)
Norwegian: Patchouli
Occitan: Patcholí
Odia: Pachulī (ପଚୁଲୀ)
Pashto: Patchouli
Persian: Batchouli (باتشولی)
Polish: Paczula, paczulka wonna
Portuguese: Pachuli, patchouli, Patchuli
Punjabi: Paicholi (ਪੈਚੋਲੀ), Pacculī (ਪੱਛੁਲੀ), Paicaulī (ਪੈਚੌਲੀ)
Romanian: Pătrunjel indian, paciuli
Russian: Pachuli (Пачули)
Santali: Pochuli (পচুলি), Paicholi (पैचोली)
Serbian: Pachuli (Пачули)
Sindhi: Pachouli (پچولي), Pachouli (پچولي)
Sinhala: Pachuli (පැචුලි), Pocholi (පොචොලි), Pechuli (පෙචූලි)
Slovak: Pačuli
Slovenian: Pačuli
Spanish: Pachulí, Cablan, Pachulí, pucholi
Sundanese: Patchouli
Swahili: Patchouli
Swedish: Patchouli, patschuli
Tajik: Pachchuly (паччули)
Tamil: Pacholi (பச்சோலி), patchouli (pəˈCHo͞olē), Kuḷavi (குளவி)
Telugu: Pachuli (పచులి), patchouli (pəˈCHo͞olē)
Thai: Pat-ju-ban (ปัจจุบัน), Phak cha (ผักชา), Hom Ma-Leng (หอมแมลง), Phæ th chū lī̀ (แพทชูลี่), Phims̄en (พิมเสน)
Tibetan: Pa chuli (པའཆུལི)
Tripuri: Pachuli (পাচুলি)
Tulu: Pacchouli (ಪಚೌಳಿ)
Turkish: Paçuli, Pachuli, silhat
Ukrainian: Pachuli (Пачулі)
Urdu: Picholi (پیچولی), Pacholi (پچولی)
Uzbek: Pachuli
Vietnamese: Ngọc lan tây, Cỏ ngọc lan, Quảng hoắc hương, Hoắc hương
Welsh: Patchouli
Yoruba: Iwa Oyinbo
Zulu: I-Patchouli, patchouli
Plant Growth Habit Aromatic, erect, upright, much-branched, bushy, herbaceous perennial plant
Growing Climates Tropical rainforests, forest clearings, cultivated gardens, plantations, hilly and upland areas, riverbanks, agricultural fields, roadsides and container gardening
Soil Prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. A loamy or sandy soil with good organic matter content is ideal
Plant Size About 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) tall and can spread to a similar width
Root Primary roots are relatively thick and sturdy, providing stability to the plant. Secondary roots branch out from the primary roots and spread horizontally through the soil
Stem Green, non-woody, flexible, and typically herbaceous throughout its life cycle. It is not capable of supporting itself like a tree or shrub
Bark Do not have the characteristic outer layer of bark
Leaf Typically ovate to lanceolate in shape arranged oppositely on the stem and are 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) long and 4 to 8 cm (1.5 to 3 inches) wide. Its upper surface is dark green and smooth, while the lower surface is lighter in color and may have fine hairs or a slightly textured appearance
Flower Small, pale pink to lavender or white colored measuring approximately 2 to 3 mm (0.08 to 0.12 inches) in diameter and are not showy or ornamental
Fruit Shape & Size Nutlets are very small, typically less than 1 cm (0.4 inches) in length. They are typically oblong or cylindrical in shape, resembling tiny capsules or seeds
Fruit Color Initially green turning to brown to dark brown or black as mature
Fruit Weight Only a fraction of a gram
Seed Very small, elongated and slightly curved or cylindrical shaped measuring only a few mm in length. The color can vary, but they are generally dark brown to black when mature
Flavor/Aroma Earthy, woody, and musky, with underlying sweet and spicy notes
Plant Parts Used Leaves, essential oil, roots
Propagation By seeds, stem cuttings, division and Air layering
Lifespan 2 to 5 years or even longer
Varieties
  • Dark Patchouli
  • Light Patchouli
  • Indonesian Patchouli
  • Indian Patchouli
  • Singapore Patchouli
  • Vintage Patchouli
  • Green Patchouli
  • Coorg Patchouli
Major Nutrition
  • Patchoulol
  • α-Bulnesene
  • Sesquiterpenes
  • Sesquiterpene lactones
  • Paecilomyces variotii
Available Forms
  • Patchouli Essential Oil
  • Herbal Teas
  • Poultices
  • Infused Oils
  • Herbal Tinctures
  • Aromatherapy Products
Health benefits
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties
  • Antimicrobial and Antifungal Benefits
  • Skin Health
  • Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement
  • Aphrodisiac Effects
  • Digestive Aid
  • Respiratory Health
  • Blood Circulation
  • Pain Relief
  • Wound Healing
  • Insect Repellent
  • Improved Sleep
  • Hormone Regulation
  • Anti-Anxiety and Anti-Depressant
  • Hair Care
  • Boosts Circulation
  • Support for Emotional Healing

Plant Description

Patchouli is an aromatic, erect, upright, much-branched, bushy, herbaceous perennial plant that normally grows about 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm) tall and can spread to a similar width. The plant is found growing in tropical rainforests, forest clearings, cultivated gardens, plantations, hilly and upland areas, riverbanks, agricultural fields, roadsides and container gardening. It prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. A loamy or sandy soil with good organic matter content is also considered ideal. Patchouli is cultivated for its fragrant leaves, which are used to extract essential oil.

Patchouli gained popularity in the Western world during the 19th century when it was used to scent imported fabrics from the East. It became a symbol of luxury and exoticism. It was often used in incense and essential oils and became a symbol of peace, love, and freedom. Its scent is known for its longevity. It is believed to have properties that attract positive energy and prosperity. It tends to linger on the skin and in fabrics for a long time, which is one reason it is often used as a fixative in perfumes.

Appropriate growing environment for Patchouli

Patchouli is a fragrant herb that is commonly used in perfumes, essential oils, and traditional medicine. To cultivate patchouli successfully, you need to create a suitable growing environment. Here are the key factors to consider:

Roots

Primary roots are comparatively robust and substantial, thereby imparting stability to the plant. Secondary roots, which extend horizontally through the soil, are alternatively referred to as lateral roots or feeder roots. They originate from the primary roots. Their primary function is to investigate a more extensive region of soil, thereby optimizing the plant’s accessibility to vital nutrients and water. Secondary roots are typically more numerous and finer than primary roots, forming a vast network in the soil.

Both primary and secondary roots are enveloped in minuscule hair-like structures referred to as root hairs. Root filaments substantially augment the available surface area for the absorption of water and nutrients. The presence of these structures is critical for the effective absorption of soil minerals and water. Root nodules may occasionally develop in patchouli plants when the roots establish a symbiotic association with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. The microbes that transform atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can utilize for growth are contained within these nodules.

Stem

Patchouli, classified as an herbaceous plant, possesses a flexible, non-woody stem devoid of the capacity to support itself in the manner of a tree or shrub. Throughout its life cycle, the stem is generally herbaceous, flexible, and green in color. The plant develops vertical tendrils that branch out as it reaches maturity. The internodes are discrete segments that comprise the stem. Internodes refer to the interstices that separate the origins of leaves and branches. Although internode lengths can differ, they typically diminish in length with the maturation of the stem.

Vascular bundles are located within the stem and are responsible for delivering carbohydrates, water, and nutrients throughout the plant. These filaments are composed of xylem, which ships minerals and water, and phloem, which transports sugar. Typically, the stem is herbaceous, silky, and green in color. Unlike woody plants, it lacks a veneer or woody outer layer. Essential oils, which are present in the stem as well as in other plant parts, are responsible for imparting the unique fragrance of patchouli. The aromatic fragrance of the stem is released upon crushing or bruising.

Bark

The outermost layer of bark that is characteristic of organic plants is absent from patchouli stems. The protective layer known as bark is composed of various tissues, such as phloem, cork cambium, and cork cells. The function of these tissues is to safeguard the plant against physical harm, pathogens, and environmental pressures. Patchouli does not contain a discernible bark layer.

Leaves

The arrangement of the leaves on the stem of patchouli is asymmetrical, meaning that each leaf is situated directly opposite another leaf at the node, thereby establishing a leaf pair at each stem node. Typical leaf shapes range from lanceolate to ovate. These organisms are distinguished by their elongated, slightly pointed shape and tapering base. While variations exist, leaves are typically between 4 and 8 centimeters (1.5 and 3 inches) in width and 5 to 10 centimeters (2-4 inches) in length. Generally, the leaf margin or edge is serrated or toothed, consisting of small, irregularly spaced teeth. This margin imparts a distinctive appearance to the foliage. Lower surface leaves are typically lighter in color and may have fine filaments or a slight textured appearance; the former is dark green and smooth.

The vein system is conspicuous on the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves. The veins are tasked with the distribution of carbohydrates, nutrients, and water across the leaf. Many aromatic herbs are distinguished by their leaves possessing a relatively dense and slightly leathery texture. The added thickness enhances their overall durability. The unique fragrance exhibited by leaves is attributable to the location of specialized aromatic glands on the leaf surface. The essential oils that impart the distinctive fragrance of patchouli are contained within these glands. The stem receives each leaf through a leaf petiole, which is a slender limb. At the node, the petiole joins the leaf blade to the stem. Although leaf color can vary due to factors such as environmental conditions and the maturity of the plant, dark green is the typical hue of the leaves.

Flower

Clusters or spires of patchouli flowers constitute a variety of inflorescence. The diameter of flowers is approximately 2 to 3 millimeters (0.08 to 0.12 inches). They lack the ornamental qualities of numerous other flowering plants. Although patchouli flowers can be any shade of color, they are typically delicate pink, lavender, or white in hue. Frequently suffused with pink or purple, the petals have an understated and delicate appearance. Patchouli flowers consist of multiple discrete components. Green sepals are composed of a diminutive, five-lobed arrangement. In general, five petals comprise the corolla, which is a tubular, bell-shaped structure found on flowers. Certain varieties of patchouli might contain a mere two stamens. The pistil serves as the reproductive structure of the female blossom. It is situated at the apex of the corolla and is composed of the stigma, a style, and a solitary ovary. Ovules are located in the ovary; upon fertilization, they transform into seeds.

Although patchouli leaves are renowned for their robust and discernible fragrance, patchouli flowers typically possess a comparatively weaker scent. While the flowers do emit a delicate, confectionery fragrance, it is comparatively subdued in comparison to the leaf aroma.

Fruits

Patchouli nutlets are typically measured at a length of not more than 0.4 inches (1 centimeter). Frequently, their length is a few millimeters. Typically oblong or cylindrical in form, nutlets bear a resemblance to minuscule capsules or seeds. Typically, mature nutlets range in color from brown to dark brown to black. The pigmentation may differ based on the developmental stage. An individual seed is contained within each nutlet. The seed is enclosed by the fruit wall and is comparatively diminutive in size.

Seeds

Patchouli seeds are ordinarily quite diminutive, with a length of some millimeters. Although they can differ in hue, mature patchouli seeds are typically dark brown to black. Frequently, seeds have an elongated, slightly curved, or cylindrical morphology. Every individual patchouli seed is fortified with a seed coat or seed coat layer for protection. The seed coat provides some resistance to external elements and serves to secure the embryo within. Within the seed coat resides a minuscule, embryonic plant that, given optimal conditions, is capable of developing into a new patchouli plant. The structures and genetic information essential for germination and development are contained within the embryo.

Varieties of Patchouli

Patchouli is a fragrant herb known for its distinctive scent and has been widely used in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. There are several varieties of patchouli, each with its unique characteristics and aroma profiles. Here are some of the most well-known varieties:

Health benefits of Patchouli

Patchouli is a versatile herb that has been traditionally used for its various health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of Patchouli in detail:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Alpha-bulnesene and alpha-guaiene are two compounds found in patchouli essential oil that are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties. Consequently, it exhibits efficacy in mitigating inflammation and edema, particularly in ailments such as gout and arthritis. A diluted solution of patchouli oil applied topically may alleviate the pain and distress caused by these conditions.

2. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Benefits

Patchouli oil possesses antimicrobial characteristics that aid in the elimination of a wide range of pathogens, such as fungi and bacteria. It can be administered topically to cuts and wounds to prevent infection. In addition, ringworm and athlete’s foot are examples of fungal infections that may be treated with it.

3. Skin Health

Patchouli finds extensive application in hygiene products owing to its rejuvenating and health-improving properties. As it aids in the regulation of oil production, it is appropriate for oily and dehydrated skin types. In addition to reducing scarring and promoting wound healing, patchouli oil can ameliorate skin conditions such as dermatitis, acne, and eczema. Additionally, its astringent properties aid in skin tightening and diminish the appearance of fine lines and creases.

4. Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement

The aroma of patchouli essential oil is renowned for its emotional and mental grounding and tranquil properties. Aromatherapy utilizing this substance may promote a reduction in anxiety, depression, and tension. Patchouli aromas possess the ability to elevate mood and induce relaxation when inhaled.

5. Aphrodisiac Effects

Patchouli has historically been linked to notions of allure and sensuality. Certain cultures regard its fragrant, exotic aroma as an aphrodisiac. Incense, fragrances, and scented oils frequently contain it to heighten sensations of desire and closeness.

6. Digestive Aid

Patchouli oil has the potential to encourage appetite and aid digestion. Utilizing a diffuser or inhaling the fragrance of patchouli prior to meals may stimulate the appetite. It is also capable of alleviating digestive distress and nausea.

7. Respiratory Health

By inhaling the aroma of patchouli oil, respiratory issues may be alleviated. By functioning as an expectorant and decongestant, it can assist in alleviating symptoms related to coughs, colds, and congestion. Nasal passages may be helped by adding a few droplets of patchouli oil to a bowl of hot water and inhaling the resulting steam.

8. Blood Circulation

When administered topically, patchouli oil is thought to increase blood flow. Enhanced circulatory function can contribute to the preservation of cardiac well-being and mitigate the likelihood of developing ailments such as hypertension.

9. Pain Relief

Because of its analgesic properties, patchouli oil is effective at alleviating pain. It provides relief for migraines, joint pain, and sore muscles. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of this substance may alleviate pain.

10. Wound Healing

Due to its regenerative and antimicrobial attributes, patchouli oil facilitates the recovery from burns, scrapes, and wounds. It prevents the growth of infections and facilitates tissue regeneration.

11. Insect Repellent

Patchouli oil’s potent, earthy fragrance functions as an inherent insect deterrent. It can be utilized in diffusers and candles, among other applications, to ward off insects such as mosquitoes.

12. Improved Sleep

Patchouli essential oil’s sedative and tranquilizing properties may contribute to improved sleep quality. Before bed, diffusing the oil in your bedroom or applying a few droplets to your pillowcase may assist in promoting sleep improvement and relaxation.

13. Hormone Regulation

Patchouli oil is purported to possess hormone-balancing properties. Certain traditional medicine practitioners employ it to mitigate menstrual and menopausal symptoms, including but not limited to mood fluctuations and hot flashes.

14. Anti-Anxiety and Anti-Depressant

The soothing aroma of patchouli has been associated with a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression. Positive emotions and feelings of contentment are linked to specific neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which may be stimulated by inhaling the odor.

15. Hair Care

Patchouli oil is occasionally incorporated into shampoos and conditioners on account of its purported hair health advantages. It could potentially fortify hair follicles, stimulate hair growth, and aid in the management of dandruff and oily scalp disorders.

16. Support for Emotional Healing

Aromatherapy practices associate patchouli with emotional restoration and personal development. By encouraging emotional stability and introspection, it can be utilized to assist those confronted with trauma, mourning, or emotional wounds.

Culinary Uses of Patchouli

Patchouli is not commonly used as a culinary herb in Western cuisine, and it is generally not recommended for ingestion in significant quantities due to its strong, earthy flavor and potential toxicity when consumed in large amounts. However, in some traditional cuisines, especially in Southeast Asia, patchouli leaves have been used in limited culinary applications for their unique taste and aroma. Here are a few examples of how patchouli is used in culinary traditions:

Different Uses of Patchouli

Patchouli is a versatile plant known for its distinct aroma and various uses. Here are different uses of patchouli:

Side effects of Patchouli

Patchouli is generally considered safe for external use in moderate amounts when used properly. However, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of:

References:

https://www.itis.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=506020#null

https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/10.1079/cabicompendium.119120

https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/POTCA

https://indiabiodiversity.org/species/show/266279

https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:454827-1

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patchouli

https://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Pogostemon+cablin

https://plants.usda.gov/home/classification/46290

https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q257757

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