Patchouli

Pogostemon cablin syn. P. patchouli

Patchouli Parts used Uses Habitat and cultivation Constituents

The patchouli is a permanently growing aromatic plant that normally grows up to a height of three feet or one meter. The plant bears square stalks, oval leaves and barbs. The barbs of the patchouli plant bears spiral shaped or whorls of flowers that vary from white to pale purple in color.

The patchouli is considered to be a valuable herb in Asia, particularly in China, India and the Arab nations. Since ages, herbal medical practitioners have been extensively using the herb to treat various disorders. The most common use of the herb has been as an aphrodisiac or a medication to develop or intensify sexual desire among people. On the other hand, the oil extracted from the plant is widely used in India in the preparation of fragrances as well as pest repellents.

PARTS USED

Young leaves and shoots, essential oil.

USES

Herbal medicine practitioners in Asia extensively use the patchouli as an aphrodisiac and also to treat depressions and infections. In addition, the herb and its extracts are also used to cure headaches and fever. The aromatic oil extracted from patchouli is beneficial for aromatherapy and is used to cure skin disorders. Many naturalists believe that patchouli possesses the properties to repair and replace worn-out or bruised skin tissues. Hence, the herb is widely used to tone up the skin and also to keep it clear from diseases like eczema and acne. The patchouli oil extract may also be used for treating hemorrhoids  as well as varicose veins.

HABITAT AND CULTIVATION

The patchouli plant is indigenous in Malaysia and the Philippines in Eastern Asia, but is now commercially cultivated in all tropical and sub-tropical climes all over the world. Harvesting of the patchouli shoots and leaves are done twice or thrice in a year. However, the harvesting of the plants heavily depends on the soil and climatic conditions of the place where they are grown.

CONSTITUENTS

Patchouli plant contains a volatile oil, which comprises mainly the sesquiterpenes patchoulol (35%) and bulnesene.