Trying to overcome the feeling of anxiety and depression? Aromatherapy with patchouli oil has a calming effect on the body and also generates a feeling of “goodness,” thus soaring your spirits. Insect repellent, skin care product, digestive medicine or an anti inflammatory ointment, the uses of the oil are numerous.
About patchouli oil
Patchouli plant originated in parts of India and Malaysia. It is often referred to as “puchaput,” in its native land. The word “patchouli” is derived from two words, “patch,” meaning “green” and “ilai,” meaning “leaf.” In Victorian England, cashmere shawls, exported from India, were identified by the distinctive smell of patchouli leaves that were placed in between. Oil is extracted from the leaves of the Pogostemon cablin plant, that grows to a height of about a meter. The young leaves of the plant are dried, fermented; before being steam distilled to obtain the yellow or dark brown colored oil with a spicy, musky and herbaceous aroma.
Uses of patchouli oil
- A painful insect bite? Apply some patchouli oil on the affected area, it helps to relieve the pain. The oil also acts as a natural insect repellent and is often used to ward off insects.
- The regenerative properties possessed by the oil helps in healing wounds and that too without ugly scars!
- In aromatherapy, the oil is used to fight depression and helps you to relax.
- Rough dry skin, acne, eczema, dandruff ; the oil is an effective remedy for all types of skin and scalp conditions.
- The oil is also beneficial in fighting obesity.
Tips for using patchouli oil
- Spraying water, to which a few drops of patchouli oil has been added, keeps away insects. This is also a natural deodorizer that keeps your house smelling good.
- For aromatherapy, a few drops of the oil can be placed on a vaporizers. Inhaling the aroma helps to control depression.
- It is suggested that you use the oil in moderation.