The amazing properties of essential oils have been used by people for a long time for various purposes: for treatment, skin and hair care, as aphrodisiacs and aromatization of rooms. Today their use has not lost its relevance. One of the widely used essential oils is patchouli oil.

Essential oil patchouli has an interesting aroma, something like a mixture of wood and Indian spices with a hint of camphor. It got its name in India, where it found its first use. From time immemorial it has been used as a powerful antidote for insect and snake bites. In the old days, people considered it a kind of amulet that preserved family well-being. According to other beliefs, patchouli essential oil is a symbol that attracts money. People believed that if you lubricate your wallet with it, it would never be empty, and if a person suddenly loses money, then it will definitely return to him. By the way, the latter belief still exists today; today people are increasingly using patchouli oil as a symbol that attracts wealth and prosperity, success and stability, for which they lubricate all things related to money with it (credit cards, money itself, wallets etc.). In Europe, patchouli became especially popular during the time of Napoleon. Every lady, when going out, covered her shoulders with a luxurious cashmere shawl, which was lined with patchouli leaves to repel moths. Even today, patchouli is widely used in India to repel insects.

The patchouli plant itself, native to the Philippine Islands, is a shrub less than a meter in height. From the young leaves of the bush it is obtained aromatic oil patchouli. The leaves themselves do not smell; in order for them to acquire an aroma, they are dried and exposed to superheated steam for a long time (steam distillation method). The product turns out to be quite heavy and dense in consistency, so to remove it from the bottle you need to warm it up a little in your hands or with warm water.

Today, the main producers of patchouli oil are India, Indonesia, Malaysia and China.

Composition and beneficial properties of patchouli oil.
Chemical composition Patchouli oils are called unique. The main substance contained in it is considered to be patchouli alcohol, which is responsible for the unique aroma of the oil. The quality of the product depends on the level of patchuole content in the product. The oil also contains nonpatchoulol, benzaldehyde, eugenol, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (bulnesen, alpha-patchoulene, alpha-guaien), and the latter make the aroma deeper and more harmonious.

Patchouli essential oil, namely its aroma, has active influence on mental, emotional and physical sphere human, increases concentration. It has antiviral activity, has a strengthening effect on the body, controls self-regulation processes, has a positive effect on the functioning of the endocrine and nervous systems, in the latter case having an antidepressant effect. Patchouli is also a good anti-inflammatory, antifungal, anti-allergenic agent, has a slight decongestant and diuretic effect, has aphrodisiac properties, and helps increase sexual desire and potency.

Oil also has many cosmetic properties, suitable for additional care for any skin type, especially recommended for aging and mature skin. The oil helps accelerate the regeneration processes and healing processes of skin microcracks (which is especially effective when allergic dermatitis and eczema), nourishes and rejuvenates it.

The use of patchouli oil in cosmetology.
Patchouli oil contains a huge amount of volatile aromatic substances, due to which it is widely used in the perfume industry. Patchouli is often added to intimate hygiene products due to its high antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

IN home cosmetology Patchouli essential oil is most often used as an additive to ready-made cosmetic products for the care of the face (in lotions, creams, milks, etc. 3-4 drops per single serving), body and hair. It is suitable for absolutely all skin types. For those with dry skin, patchouli oil will eliminate flaking, aging skin will acquire a healthy, radiant and toned appearance, with oily skin- will reduce the secretion of the sebaceous glands, and if sensitive, reduce inflammation and eliminate irritation.

Regularly adding a few drops of oil to ready-made products for hair care (3-4 drops per single serving) will give hair a natural shine, soothe irritated skin, eliminate dandruff, strengthen hair follicles. Patchouli should be added to a cream or body lotion in the following ratio: 5 drops of essential component per 10 ml of product. Regular use of patchouli oil in body creams will increase skin elasticity and improve its condition with cellulite.

For nails, patchouli is easy an indispensable tool in care. Regularly rubbing it into the cuticle and nail plate will strengthen them and add shine. The oil can be applied to pure form, or you can make baths with your favorite fatty oils and the addition of patchouli oil.

Systematic breast massage with patchouli essential oil will increase the elasticity of the skin in this area, significantly improving its shape. For cooking massage mixture you need to take 10 ml of vegetable oil (olive, almond, flaxseed, etc.) and combine with 8 drops of patchouli oil. For the same purpose, it is effective to take an aroma bath with the addition of patchouli oil three times a week. It should first be added to the emulsifier ( sea ​​salt, milk or cream), and then pour into warm water (take 6 drops of essential oil for ½ cup of emulsifier).

Aromatherapy using patchouli will not only calm you down and put your thoughts in order, but also reduce your appetite, which is especially important during dieting. In aroma lamps for 15 sq. m area you need to add 5-8 drops of patchouli oil.

In its pure form, patchouli is used locally exclusively for the treatment of purulent rashes and acne. To smooth the surface of the skin, eliminate the effects of post-acne and acne, patchouli should be dissolved in the base fatty oil(take 5 drops of essential component for 1 tablespoon of base).

Homemade recipes with patchouli oil.

Cream for dry and tired facial skin.
Action.
Moisturizes, nourishes, gives a lifting effect.

Ingredients.
Night cream or olive oil– 10 ml.

Ylang-ylang essential oil – 2 drops.
Grapefruit oil – 1 drop.

Application.
Combine the base product with essential ingredients, mix well and use at night on cleansed skin as a regular nourishing cream.

Mask for dry, flaky facial skin with signs of aging.
Action.
Eliminates peeling, softens, nourishes, and makes the skin velvety.

Ingredients.
Avocado oil (or almond oil) – 10 ml.
Patchouli essential oil – 2 drops.
Chamomile oil – 4 drops.
Leuzea oil – 2 drops.

Application.
Add essential components to the base oil, combine everything thoroughly and apply to a previously cleansed face. After twenty minutes, blot off the remaining mask with a paper napkin.

Steam bath with patchouli to cleanse facial skin.
Very good before application cosmetics cleanse the skin. This process is much more effective using a steam bath or facial bath. For the procedure, take 500 ml of boiling water and add patchouli, neroli and leuzea oils, taken one drop at a time. Breathe over the steam under a towel for 15 minutes.

Cosmetic ice with patchouli oil.
Ingredients.
Pure water – 200 ml.
Patchouli oil – 5 drops.
Honey or cosmetic cream – 1 tsp.

Application.
Combine the ingredients, pour into special ice trays and freeze. Use morning and evening on the face, neck, and décolleté.

The use of patchouli oil in treatment.
IN folk medicine Patchouli is used mainly to accelerate the healing of wounds, cuts, cracks, purulent lesions, dermatoses, allergic and herpetic rashes. It is applied in its pure form, spot-on, or mixed with a plant base.

Inhaling the aroma of patchouli oil calms, eliminates the effects of stress, relieves tension, and promotes complete relaxation. In case of loss of strength, patchouli, on the contrary, tones, gives vigor, strength and self-confidence.

Compresses will help relieve inflammation and relieve pain from injuries. To do this, combine 10 ml of any oily base with 3-4 drops of patchouli, soak gauze pad and apply to the painful area. Do the procedure three times a day for twenty minutes until inflammation and pain are completely eliminated.

To create an erotic mood, it is good to use the following compositions:

• For 10 ml of oil grape seed take a drop of patchouli, two drops of cedar, 3 drops of sandalwood;
• For 10 ml of grape oil, take a drop of patchouli, 2 drops of sandalwood and palmarosa, 3 drops of ylang-ylang;
• For 10 ml of grape seed oil, take 3 drops of patchouli, the same amount of ginger and bergamot, 2 drops of cinnamon.

To relieve pain and irritation in the throat, it is good to use this gargling: dissolve 2 drops of oil in half a teaspoon of honey, salt or soda and add to 200 ml warm water. Gargle two to three times a day.

The use of patchouli oil in aroma lamps is effective in treating colds and preventing them. Simply add 3-5 drops of this unique cosmetic product to the lamp.

Inhalations with patchouli oil: take a small bowl, pour hot water, add 2 drops of patchouli oil, cover with a towel and breathe over the steam with eyes closed within ten minutes.

Contraindications to the use of patchouli essential oil.

• Pregnancy and lactation period.
• Gastritis and peptic ulcer.
• Children under 1.5 years old.
• Patients suffering from asthma.

Before using the oil, be sure to test it for the presence individual intolerance and allergic reactions.

Patchouli oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the tropical patchouli shrub. The color of patchouli oil can vary from reddish-green to dark brown, and its consistency is always viscous and viscous. The scent of patchouli is deep, warm, and at the same time pungent, reminiscent of wood with a hint of damp earth. Patchouli oil uses has quite a variety, from perfumery to medicine and cosmetology.

Thanks to your antiseptic properties Patchouli is used in the treatment and treatment of wounds, cuts, ulcers, and dermatoses. Its aroma has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, eliminating manifestations of depression, apathy, and stress. Essential oil helps in the fight against internal infections and inflammation, especially urinary system. It has a diuretic effect, making infections and toxins easily eliminated from the body.

Patchouli oil has regenerating properties, so it perfectly tightens and smoothes the skin of the face and body. It opens the pores on the skin and gently removes excess sebum, hence helps eliminate acne and skin rashes. In addition, patchouli can be used to treat acne marks and scars.

How to use patchouli scent?

When you feel low or depressed, it is recommended to inhale the vapors of patchouli oil. For this, a regular aroma lamp is used. For every 5 square meters room you need to add 2 drops of essential oil. For an aroma medallion, only 2-3 drops will be enough, since the smell of patchouli is quite persistent and lasts well.

For aromatic bath with patchouli, add 7 drops to a glass of milk, yogurt or kefir, and then dilute in water. This is done for the reason that the essential oils themselves cannot dissolve in water. Due to different densities, they will simply float on the surface. To give your skin smoothness, instead of milk, add butter to 50 grams of honey, or to a tablespoon of bath salts.

If you want to please yourself with a new perfume, don’t rush to the perfume salon: create your own unique scent. Patchouli blends seamlessly with the aromas of sandalwood, myrrh, rose and cedar. Fantasize according to your own taste, mixing certain oils with each other. Remember that patchouli should not be mixed with turpentine-containing oils, such as juniper.

The use of patchouli in cosmetology

Patchouli is an essential oil whose properties in cosmetology have no analogues. It is especially suitable for mature skin prone to aging. Prepare a rejuvenating cream: take 10 ml of neutral face cream, add 2 drops of patchouli essential oils, and. The cream is suitable for use in the morning.

To open the pores of the skin on your face and combat oily shine, you can prepare a steam bath. Boil half a liter of water, add 1 drop each of patchouli, neroli, and lavsea. Hold your face above the steam at a distance of approximately 40-50 cm for 10 minutes. There is no need to wash your face after the procedure.

For a regenerating mask, mix 10 ml of avocado oil, half a teaspoon of finely crushed oil, 2 drops each of patchouli and loveseed oils, 4 drops of decoction. Instead of oil, any soft cream will do as a base. Apply the mixture to the face, décolleté, neck, hold for 20-30 minutes, then rinse with water. After this, it is recommended to apply vitamin cream to the skin.

To ensure that, before using shampoo, you should apply a special mixture to your hair. Mix 2 teaspoons, 2 drops each of patchouli, eucalyptus and. Rub the mixture into the roots of your hair, wait 10 minutes, then wash your hair with shampoo. If you don't have time to prepare this recipe, add two drops of patchouli to your regular shampoo every time you wash your hair.

The use of patchouli in medicine

Patchouli oil is used to treat fungal skin diseases. Prepare a bath for your hands or feet: add 14 drops of patchouli oil to half a liter of whey and mix thoroughly. It is recommended to keep your hands or feet in the bath for up to 30 minutes. This procedure can be performed daily until the fungus is completely eliminated.

To relieve muscle tone and improve blood circulation, massage treatments using patchouli are recommended. To do this, add up to 4-6 drops of oil to 20 grams of cream or base oil. It is best to use fatty cream or oil, since patchouli will dissolve poorly in watery creams.

To do this, you can mix 7 drops of oil with a spoon of honey, then dissolve it in a liter of warm water. This bath is also suitable for hands, if you reduce the concentration by half. If not, apply the solution to clean, dry skin using a cotton swab. It is not necessary to rinse off the product; just pat the skin well with a towel.

Unusual uses of patchouli oil

It is known that moths cannot tolerate the smell of patchouli, so you need to use it during wet cleaning. Add 10 drops of oil to half a liter of warm water, then wipe the walls and shelves of the closet, as well as clothes hangers. You can simply leave the open bottle on one of the shelves; the smell will be strong enough to repel moths.

Patchouli is a natural plant that enhances intimate desire in men and women. Therefore, patchouli can be added to an aroma lamp, on clothing, or used as one of the components of stimulating perfumes. To treat female frigidity and male impotence, it is recommended to add a couple of drops of patchouli oil to bedding. It is noteworthy that with its stimulating effect in the intimate sense, the aroma of the oil, at the same time, helps relieve tension and stress.

Contraindications to the use of patchouli oil

Since patchouli stimulates muscle activity, the oil is not recommended for use by pregnant women or people suffering from gastrointestinal diseases. It will also not benefit children under 1.5 years of age, the elderly, or people suffering from asthma. The effect of essential oils in general and patchouli oil in particular on lactation has not been clarified, but it can be assumed that it affects the smell mother's milk, so the baby is likely to refuse the breast.

It is also extremely important to follow the dosage when using essential oils externally. You should never apply just one essential oil to your body. Also remember that in sunny weather, creams and other mixtures and solutions that contain patchouli should be avoided so as not to injure the skin. When used wisely, patchouli oil will not cause any harm to the body.

Patchouli- a tropical tree-like plant, a representative of the Yamnotaceae family. Scientists consider the Philippine Islands to be the birthplace of the shrub. Patchouli is found on the island of Java, Singapore, and the Seychelles. Initially, this tree could only be found in Malaysia and Indonesia, but today it is grown in different corners peace for the sake of aromatic and very valuable oil. Patchouli is a shrub with broad green leaves and small white flowers (see photo). The leaves have pleasant aroma, it is from this part of the plant that essential oil is produced.

Hindus use the plant to scent fabrics, linens, and also to repel insects. Patchouli oil came to the European continent from India, and society ladies were fascinated by the aroma that Indian fabrics emitted. In India, these plants were used to protect fabrics from moths. The aroma of patchouli captivated Europeans so much that they began to import it to European countries along with other products. Patchouli for a long time was considered a sacred plant, it required attribute wedding ceremony.

There is a belief that patchouli oil has close connections with the money sphere, so it should never be thrown away or treated with disdain, because this will immediately affect the financial well-being of its owner. Experts on the magical properties of patchouli do not recommend giving away or lending the oil to someone: it will be better if every last drop goes to the owner. For that, to attract money with the scent of patchouli, you should put a bill scented with this oil in your wallet. Before an important business meeting, you can apply a few drops of patchouli to your clothes to attract good luck and make a profitable deal.

Useful properties

The beneficial properties of patchouli are due to the presence of essential oil in the leaves of the tree. The plant contains rutin, B vitamins, vitamin E, and microelements.

Patchouli essential oil is one of the most valuable and expensive. The high cost of oil is due to the difficulty of obtaining it. To obtain essential oil, the leaves of the plant are first dried and fermented, and then steam distilled. Oil is a thick liquid with a characteristic odor. The sweet aroma of the oil blends organically with notes of wood and earth. The scent of patchouli is considered an aphrodisiac. This scent captivates from the first seconds: it is very deep and sensual. Aromatherapists recommend using this oil during romantic dates. Patchouli goes well with sandalwood, bergamot, cedar, and cinnamon oil. The aroma of this oil puts you in the mood for a loving pastime, especially if you add a few drops of oil to the mixture for an erotic massage. Patchouli can also be used to scent bedding.

Regarding the impact on emotional sphere, patchouli oil perfectly tunes into a creative wave and helps to create right choice. If you cannot make an important decision for a long time or you are tormented by doubts, just inhale the aroma of patchouli - and everything will become clear.

To check the quality of essential oil at home, you need to drop a few drops onto the paper. In the event that the manufacturer turned out to be unscrupulous and diluted the expensive oil with base oil, a characteristic oily stain should remain on the paper. Of course, such a test is not 100% reliable, but it is considered one of the simplest and most accessible. One of the most reliable indicators when choosing an oil is the reliability of the manufacturer and the price of the product. Natural oil cannot be cheap. Patchouli oil has an atypical consistency for essential oils: it is very thick and dense, which can create problems with its extraction through the dispenser.

The oil of this plant is used in cosmetology. for care problem skin , because it perfectly fights acne, pimples, and eczema. The oil improves the condition of the skin, makes it well-groomed, and stimulates renewal processes. The plant reduces wrinkles and helps mature facial skin look fresher. Patchouli can be used to care for hair: the oil makes it shiny and strengthens it perfectly. A few drops of oil are added to the bath to moisturize dry skin and relieve irritation. Patchouli oil is considered one of the most effective for combating irritability, depression, and stress.

Use in cooking

In cooking, the patchouli tree has found application in Malaysia, where its leaves are used as an aromatic seasoning for national dishes.

Patchouli essential oil is often used as a natural flavoring in tea drinks. It goes especially well with green tea, this drink perfectly tones the body. Patchouli has also long been used to add aroma to wine drinks and a spicy aroma to baked goods and dessert dishes. For culinary purposes, highly refined oil is used, which must be 100% natural. Patchouli oil extends the shelf life of other products. Patchouli is sometimes added to bee honey, other vegetable oils or sour cream.

For that, to give a special aroma to wine, a few drops of oil are mixed with 1 tsp. bee honey. The mixture is dissolved in a small amount of the drink, and then poured into a bottle with the rest of the wine, which is then left for two to three days in a cool, dark place. A few days later, the drink is filtered using gauze and infused for two hours. Now the wine is ready to drink.

Patchouli benefits and treatment

The benefits of the plant are known in folk medicine. Patchouli wood has been used in China for a long time. for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.

Patchouli essential oil has antipyretic property, which makes it possible to use it for colds.

Patchouli helps control appetite, which is important for people who suffer from excess weight.

Chinese medicine uses oil as antiseptic . In ancient times, patchouli oil was the first remedy for treating snake bites. The Arabs used the oil for fever.

In medicine, the oil of this plant is used to treat diseases. internal organs, For example hemorrhoids, intestinal diseases . In this case, diluted oil is used for enemas.

Inhaling the oil is indicated for colds, stress, to increase immunity, general fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Harm of patchouli and contraindications

The plant can cause harm to the body due to individual intolerance. The use of patchouli essential oil is contraindicated for pregnant women.

Patchouli, pogostemon patchouli (Latin)　

Patchouli - antiseptic. Patchouli gives the body elasticity. Patchouli removes excess fluid, treats cellulite, helps eliminate stretch marks and scars. Patchouli aphrodisiac, increases sexual activity, excellent hair conditioner. Aroma Patchouli attracts money

　

Patchouli is a perennial herbaceous shrub of the Lamiaceae family, reaching 70-100 m in height. The leaves are serrated, with a pleasant strong odor. The flowers are white and pale lilac, the fruits are nuts.

It is native to the Philippines and Malaysia, then spread throughout Asia and is cultivated in many places around the world. Patchouli requires a temperature of at least twenty degrees, direct sunlight and high humidity.　

Patchouli appeared in Europe in the mid-19th century, along with Indian textiles, since sachets were made from dried leaves the plants were used to perfume fabrics and woolen shawls intended for export. This sachet protected fabrics from moths and imbued them with a pleasant, albeit slightly pungent odor, which created an aura of mystery and wealth.

It was then that another wonderful property of patchouli was discovered - magical property attract money. It was noticed that the same products, only without the patchouli scent, remained on store shelves unsold.　

　

Essential oil is obtained from patchouli leaves through steam distillation. It contains patchouli alcohol - patchoulol, alpha-guayan, alpha-patchoulene, bulnesen and eugenol. The oil is dark brown, sometimes with a hint of green, and has bactericidal properties, as well as a very strong and persistent odor. This is a pronounced rich oriental aroma, warm, slightly heavy, bittersweet, pungent, penetrating, piercing, herbaceous, with hints of earth, sensual, deep, tart. 　　

Traditional oriental medicine Patchouli has long been used in medical purposes. 　

The healing properties of patchouli are used in the following cases:

— to regulate water balance in the body, remove excess fluid, natural diuretic　

- as an antiseptic, treats many skin diseases (eczema, festering wounds, cuts, abrasions, acne, fungal infections, dermatitis)　

- for stomach diseases

- for obesity, controls appetite　

- as an antipyretic, inflammatory processes　

- for diseases urethra　

- as an antidote for snake bites　

- as a strong aphrodisiac, treats impotence and frigidity, increases sexual desire, has a strong erotic effect and enhances the sensual perception of sexual intercourse　

In everyday life, patchouli oil is used for wet cleaning of premises as an antiseptic and flavoring agent, as well as against moths.

Patchouli is used in cosmetology thanks to

- antiseptic properties　

Heals skin infections, including fungal, relieves itching and irritation, heals wounds.　

- tonic, firming properties

An excellent product for increasing the elasticity of the skin - both the skin of the face and the body, it gives the skin elasticity and freshness, tightens it, and eliminates sagging. Smoothes wrinkles, eliminates scars, breathes life into tired skin. Antioxidant, promotes rapid renewal of epidermal cells.

Suitable for all skin types.

Returns life and freshness to dry and tired skin.

Patchouli oil is used for, adding a few drops to vegetable oils, creams, and bath products. 　

Bath with patchouli and vetiver oil - superb property to maintain body elasticity and tone, it is effective for　preserving the youth of the body,　for weight loss, for women after childbirth, liposuction, rapid weight loss, in the fight against saggy belly and sagging skin　and for maintaining the beauty of the bust.

- anti-edematous properties　

It removes from the body excess liquid, prevents fluid retention in the body, relieves swelling. Often used in anti-cellulite products. 　

Patchouli oil is also used to condition hair, restoring life, strength and shine to depleted and dull hair. Excellently fights dandruff and strengthens the scalp.　

In perfumery, patchouli oil extract is used in perfumes to give a refined oriental accent (bottom and middle notes).

Patchouli oil acts directly on the central nervous system and is widely used in aromatherapy. It has the following effects:　

- psycho-emotional - relieves anxiety and depression, calms worries, gives clarity and clarity to thoughts, clears consciousness, sharpens the mind, helps to cope with situations that require analysis, awakens interest in life 　

- medicinal - calms and tones the entire body, treats sexual disorders caused by mental disorders, restores sexual functions, thanks to its antiseptic properties treats skin diseases

- magical - awakens passion, attracts money (love and wealth in one scent!) 　

The aroma of patchouli is called the “money smell”, it has amazing property attract money. The history of using patchouli oil for these purposes goes back several thousand years. Patchouli essential oil has long been believed to attract wealth, provide peace, fertility, business success and stability. They are sprayed with banknotes so that they return quickly (this is also the smell of “fast money”), wallets, goods to increase sales, the premises are fumigated, and they take “money” baths. The amazing thing is that all this works - these are magical powers this oil!　

In industry and in everyday life, patchouli is used to scent rooms, fabrics and other items, as an aromatic additive in candle wax, smoking mixtures, smoking sticks and other types of oriental incense.　

Syn: Indian patchouli, pogostemon cablin, patches.

Patchouli is a type of perennial tropical herbaceous shrub with an upright, rigid stem, soft leaves with a strong pleasant scent and white or pale lilac flowers with bright purple speckles. The plant can have antidepressant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, fungicidal and antibacterial effects.

Ask the experts a question

In medicine

Patchouli is not a pharmacopoeial plant and is not listed in State Register medicines of the Russian Federation and is not used in official medicine. However, the plant was previously used to produce taxol, an anticancer drug. medicine, now synthesized by biotechnological and synthetic methods. In search of new sources of therapeutic and prophylactic raw materials, scientists conducted a series of studies and found that patchouli has the potential to become a potent anti-flu agent. The plant has diuretic, antidepressant, fungicidal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect. May act as an aphrodisiac. Patchouli oil is included in pharmacy products.

Contraindications and side effects

Patchouli has contraindications. The plant should not be used during pregnancy and lactation, gastritis and peptic ulcer, it is not recommended for patients with asthma and children under one and a half years old. Before using patchouli for medicinal purposes, you should consult your doctor.

In perfumery

The plant oil is widely used in the perfume industry. The rich, warm, sweet aroma of patchouli often becomes the “heart note” of expensive perfumes. It can be found in Patchouli Patch from L"Artisan Parfumeur and in White Patchouli from Tom Ford, distinguished in Miss Dior Chérie L'Eau and Dune from Dior and many other creations of famous perfumers. It is also included in luxurious exotic mixtures of essential oils, giving them “that same” musky-earthy note. Also, patchouli oil or essence can act as a natural fixative for other, less persistent essential oils, preventing them from evaporating too quickly. It also serves as a flavoring agent for smoking mixtures, incense sticks, candles, and a fragrance for soap. , shampoos, deodorants and household chemicals.

In cosmetology

The beneficial properties of patchouli oil are used in cosmetology for the skin of the face and body, and for hair. It is included in creams, lotions, and serums intended for the care of mature facial skin. It is believed that patchouli oil can cause micro-contraction of muscles, a rush of blood and thereby prevent a decrease in tone, which is the main cause of age-related wrinkles. It is also important that patchouli essential oil stimulates the generation of new skin cells. Patchouli oil is beneficial for facial skin even at a younger age, as it can cope with infections, tightens pores, and cleanses them of excess oil. When used in body skin care products, patchouli oil can help fight cellulite. Due to the fact that the oil causes blood flow to the skin, it can prevent hair loss, stimulate hair growth, restoring strength and shine, which is why patchouli oil is added to shampoos, balms, and care masks. different types hair.

In other areas

In aromatherapy

Patchouli is often used in aromatherapy. The oil not only serves as an aphrodisiac, capable of awakening passion and relieving sexual dysfunction caused by nervous disorders, it is also credited with the ability to relieve depression and anxiety. It is believed that patchouli essential oil gives clarity to thoughts, sharpens the mind, and tones the entire body.

In everyday life

The leaves and oil of the plant are traditionally used as a repellent and insecticide.

Classification

Patchouli, or Indian patchouli (lat. Pogostemon cablin) - the most known species perennial tropical herbaceous shrub plants from the extensive genus Pogostemon (lat. Pogostemon). The genus numbers at least 90 various types and is part of the Lamiaceae family (lat. Labiatae) or Lamiaceae (lat. Lamiaceae).

Botanical description

Patchouli is a perennial herbaceous shrub whose diameter and height can reach one and a half meters. The plant has branched, fibrous roots and a tough, hairy stem. Patchouli leaves are opposite, wide, jagged or pinnate, and have a pleasant, strong aroma. Patchouli flowers are white or pale lilac with purple speckles, they are collected in brushes in whorls of 10 to 15 pieces. The fruit of the plant is a nut.

Spreading

Patchouli is native to the Philippine Islands, and from there the plant spread throughout Southeast Asia. It grows wild at altitudes of 3,000 to 6,000 pounds in Java, Reunion, Sumatra, Singapore, and the Seychelles.

Procurement of raw materials

Patchouli essential oil is a valuable raw material. It is obtained by steam distillation from fresh or dried leaves of the plant. They are collected by hand, plucked from the bushes up to three times a year. The best oil is obtained from leaves cut during the rainy season. They are the richest in essential oils. The collected leaves are either immediately put to work, or dried, tied into bales and placed under a canopy on fresh air. Fermented leaves produce more essential oil, as they are destroyed during the drying process. cell walls. It is worth noting that patchouli oil is one of those rare species essential oils, which long-term storage is only beneficial. Over time, it loses excess astringency and sweetish fruity top notes appear in the aroma. The oil changes from grassy green to dark amber or light yellow.

Chemical composition

The chemical composition of patchouli essential oil has been well studied. Basics active substance– A sesquiterpene known as patchouli alcohol or patchoulol, it makes up 30 to 33% of the essential oil. Also found in the oil were guayene, patchoulene, pogostol, caryophyllene, eicosene, acyphyllene, naphthoquinone, pachipodol, retusin, stigmast, valencene, elemol and farnesol.

Pharmacological properties

The healing effect of patchouli essential oil has become the subject of a number of scientific research. At clinical studies It has been found that inhalation of patchouli oil causes healthy women decreased activity of the central nervous system, as determined by the amplitude of the systolic blood pressure(SBP-LF amplitude), after a 5-second measurement interval. The degree of decrease in central nervous system activity compared to control was approximately 40%. Patchouli alcohol demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in activated macrophages by inhibiting NF-kB trafficking, which is thought to be associated with decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (one of the three MAPKs). The anti-inflammatory effects of patchouli alcohol have been identified in other studies in lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages, where 10-40 microM revealed that iNOS excitation, COX-2 mRNA and PGE2 content were inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner. The levels of cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were reduced to the same extent, although in all parameters the reduction did not exceed 50% (between lipopolysaccharide and non-activated controls). As for influenza (influenza virus strains A/PR/8/34; H1N1), the methanol extract has strong antiviral activity due to the inhibition of neuraminidase by 99.8% in an amount of 10 μg/ml and the preservation of 97.5% of infected cells without direct cytotoxicity in cells at the tested concentrations. This is attributed to patchouli alcohol, which reduces viral plaque formation by 75% at a concentration of 2 µg/ml and has an IC50 value of 2.635-2.875 micromolar (535-639 ng/ml). Patchouli methanol extract has been shown to be effective in vitro against viral replication in influenza with sufficient great strength effects on H1N1, but only moderate effects on other strains of viruses. At least one mouse study has confirmed the extract's anti-flu effect in natural conditions due to patchouli alcohol in an amount of 80 mg/kg (calculated human equivalent is 6.4 mg/kg), slightly less effective or equally effective action ribavirin.

Use in folk medicine

Various properties Patchouli oils are used in folk medicine. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of the plant are useful in treatment wide range skin diseases, as well as some internal inflammation such as arthritis and gout. Patchouli oil disinfects wounds and ulcers and also helps them heal. It is believed that patchouli oil can get rid of scars, “marks” left by smallpox, measles, boils and acne. The fungicidal effect of patchouli essential oil makes it indispensable in the fight against various fungal skin infections. When applied externally, it can relieve itching from insect bites. Patchouli essential oil is considered an effective tonic that stimulates the liver, stomach and intestines; it helps relieve constipation and helps with diseases of the urinary system. Inhalations with patchouli oil are recommended for depression, headaches, and for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases.

Historical background

The history of the use of patchouli in perfumery, everyday life and medicine goes back to ancient times. In Japanese traditional medicine patchouli is known as kakko. Healers used them to stimulate digestion and against the flu. Indian healers used the plant for nervous diseases as a disinfectant, healing and antiviral agent. According to traditional Chinese medicine, patchouli should be used to treat headaches, colds, nausea, diarrhea, and intestinal problems. Patchouli was popular among oriental beauties. They took baths with this incense and made masks with patchouli essential oil. Patchouli oil was also used for weight loss, since the plant is able to relieve swelling and remove excess fluid, the effect of using the plant was obvious.

Patchouli initially became popular in Europe due to its repellent effect. Eastern merchants, in order to prevent damage to goods, lined magnificent fabrics and shawls with patchouli leaves. Expensive goods were scented with this exquisite fragrance, and soon the nobility began to associate it with the mysterious and luxurious East. The origin of the fragrance has long been a secret, carefully guarded by greedy merchants. The secret of patchouli was discovered by the famous Spanish botanist - monk Francisco Manuel Blanco. While traveling in the Philippines in 1837, he discovered a plant with a very familiar smell. It was patchouli.

Patchouli saw a resurgence in popularity in the 60-70s of the 20th century. This scent was loved by “flower children” and hippies. Evil tongues said that patchouli helps them muffle the smell of “grass” and unwashed bodies. Naturally, these incense soon became associated with poor hygiene. It took years for the negative associations with fragrance to fade from public consciousness and the multifaceted scent of patchouli again became an aroma of luxury.

Literature

1. Volkhovskaya U.V., Milyanovsky E.S. “Agricultural technology of patchouli”, Sukhumi, 1957.