Patchouli

PogestemonpatchouliPell

Patchouli is another member of the Lamiaceae family. An inconspicuous perennial herbaceous plant reaches 1 m in height. Large feathery leaves exude a pleasant woody-spicy aroma. In India, China, and Asia, this plant has been cultivated for many centuries, but in Europe they learned about it only in the first quarter of the 19th century. Nevertheless, by the beginning of the 20th century, patchouli oil had become a common ingredient in many perfume and cosmetic compositions.

The unique composition of patchouli oil with a unique balsamic shade was carefully studied by scientists in France, Switzerland, the USA, and Russia in the 20th century. It turned out that many components are “proprietary”: patchouli alcohol, nor-patchulenol, alpha-patchoulene, nortetrapatchoulol.

The tart, smoky, resinous aroma of patchouli has long been valued by merchants and caravanners for helping to protect expensive fabrics from damage by moths during long journeys. In Indonesia, where patchouli grows in large quantities, local residents sprinkled the crushed leaves on weeping wounds, cuts, and cracks. The bitter smell of patchouli leaves helped get rid of annoying insects.

The oil is obtained from dry leaves. Depending on the quality of the raw material, steam treatment releases a viscous greenish or reddish-brown essential oil with a very persistent odor.

In folk medicine it is known as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, wound-healing, fungicidal and diuretic. It is used as an antidepressant in the treatment of various nervous diseases.

Medicinal properties

1. Strong bactericidal agent.
2. Used to treat colds and flu.
3. Effective for acne, allergic and herpetic rashes, eczema, herpes zoster, fungal skin diseases, dermatitis.
4. Eliminates inflammatory processes in the genitals.
5. Has a diuretic effect. Used in the treatment of diseases of the urethra.
6. Restores the body's defenses.
7. Recommended for impotence and frigidity.
8. Suitable for caring for dry, tired skin prone to inflammation.
9. Used in the treatment of cellulite.
10. Helps get rid of dandruff.

Dosage

Externally: 7-8 k. per 10 ml of vegetable oil.

Internally: 1-2 k. per 1 tsp. honey 3 times a day.

Baths: 5-7 k.

Inhalations: 3-4 k.

Enrichment of cosmetics: 4-5 k. per 10 g of base.

Contraindications. Individual intolerance.

Note. Intensive oil. Avoid overdose.