The distinctive Patchouli essential oil - it's an aroma people seem to love or hate - very few are indifferent. This aromatic oil has a reputation as the scent of the Hippy generation, though it's medicinal and aromatic use dates back thousands of years. Patchouli oil has a well-deserved reputation in modern aromatherapy, with it's deep, musky odor, balancing energy, and mystical properties. It is an exotic aroma that can forever imprint the olfactory senses. Patchouli is a perennial herb originating in tropical Asia, growing wild at elevations between 3,000 and 6,000 feet, with farming more pervasive in the lowland tropical jungles of India and Indonesia. This bushy plant grows to one meter, with a powerful stem and soft, hair-covered leaves. The plant is harvested two or three times per year, with the best quality essential oil derived from leaves cut in the rainy seasons. The leaves are hand picked and dried in the shade, fermenting for a few days before the oil is extracted via steam distillation. The fermentation process softens the plant's cell walls, easing the extraction of the oil, though it doesn't significantly add to the oils' distinctive odor. Patchouli oil's prices are low in comparison to other essential oils because of the plant's high yield.Further, Patchouli can be stored for long periods, being one of the few essential oils that improve with age. Over time, the oil looses a harshness that many find distasteful, and adds a sweet top note. As it ages, the oil turns from light yellow to a deep viscous amber, with the aroma becoming smoother and more rich. Perhaps first due to it's power as a moth repellent, the aroma of Patchouli was pervasive in cloth and clothing exported from India in the 19th century. The scent became an indicator of true 'Oriental' fabric, so much so that English and French garment makers were obliged to scent their imitation products with Patchouli to ensure their acceptance in the domestic marketplace. Beyond its use for preventing holes from being eaten in one's cloting, Patchouli oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine in Malaysia, China and Japan. Primarily indicated for skin conditions, Patchouli may be of benefit in cases of dermatitis, eczema, acne, dry chapped skin, and other irritating conditions, along with dandruff and oily scalp conditions. As a cell rejuvenator, it may help in healing wounds and reducing the appearance of scars. It is considered an excellent remedy for insect and snake bites, and has been used as a fumigant and rubbing oil to prevent the spread of fevers and to strengthen the immune system. Patchouli oil is a premier base note and fixative in perfume blends, being included in a host of well-known perfumes and colognes. In blends, it limits the evaporation of lighter oils so that their aroma may be released more slowly. Small amounts of Patchouli can be used in natural perfume blends, adding that unique earthy aroma. It mixes well with several other aromatherapy oils, though care should be taken not to overwhelm other scents when creating blends. For therapeutic applications, Patchouli is considered a premier bringer of balance, with a combination of relaxing AND stimulating effects. It is said to bring the three principal forces at work within the body - creative, heart-center, and intellectual - in-synch. Patchouli can reduce strain of those with excessive mental activity who may feel 'out of touch' with their body and sensuality. It has been considered a relaxing aphrodisiac, and can be helpful for those with sexual anxiety. Patchouli combines this aphrodisiac effect with an antidepressant one, uplifting the mind with it's sweet, warm, spicy scent. Again, because of it's very strong aromatic properties, very small doses can be used - a little dabbed in special places on the body will go a long way. As if this were not enough, Patchouli is thought to be a bringer of prosperity and abundance. Perhaps by allowing one to open to these possibilities energetically, the oil is used in ceremonies and prayers by those in need of financial or other type of infusion in their lives. One may simply close their eyes, imagine the abundance they need, and inhale the oil's aroma for a few seconds. Creating your own aromatherapy and perfumery blends with Patchouli can be exceptionally rewarding - for a few simple blends, try: 3 parts Patchouli and 1 part Rosemary Cineol. This is a wonderfully uplifting blend combining the deep earthiness of Patchouli with the invigorating aroma of Rosemary. This can certainly be worn as a perfume, or used in a diffuser. When the going gets tedious, try brightening with 3 parts Coriander, 2 parts Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. This may uplift the spirits and remind one of the joy to be found in life. For the sensually insecure, try 1 part Geranium, 1 part Patchouli and 1 part Bergamot. A beautiful yet simple blend for getting comfortable in one's own skin. It may take a little education, but many who claim to have a dislike for Patchouli may truly enjoy it when finally getting to sample a properly aged or beautifully blended oil.
Article Source: http://www.articlecontentprovider.com/articlesubmit
The distinctive Patchouli essential oil - it's an aroma people seem to love or hate - very few are indifferent. This aromatic oil has a reputation as the scent of the Hippy generation, though it's medicinal and aromatic use dates back thousands of years. Patchouli oil has a well-deserved reputation in modern aromatherapy, with it's deep, musky odor, balancing energy, and mystical properties. It is an exotic aroma that can forever imprint the olfactory senses.
Learn more about practical aromatherapy and buy essential oils online through The Ananda Apothecary.
Please Rate this Article
5 out of 5 4 out of 5 3 out of 5 2 out of 5 1 out of 5
