Patchouli oil, with its recognizable musky, sweet, spicy aroma, is used widely as a base note and fixative ingredient in modern perfume and skincare products. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that some of the most popular products today contain patchouli. But it’s about more than a good scent—in fact, patchouli comes with a number of benefits for the skin, according to experts.
Benefits
Traditionally, patchouli has been used often as a medicinal ingredient to treat skin inflammations and scars, headaches, colic, muscle spasms, bacterial, and viral infections, anxiety, and depression. The Chinese, Japanese, and Arabs believe it to possess aphrodisiac properties. If using it on skin, it’s best to dilute with a carrier oil, as patchouli can be potent on its own. Patchouli is also frequently used as an aromatherapy product, placed in a diffuser to reap the most benefits. Another favorite way to use patchouli is in candle form. We’ve heard great things about Paddywax’s tobacco and patchouli candles. You can also use patchouli oil mixed with other essential oils to create your own moisturizers, massage oils, and more. It’s particularly nice when paired with jasmine.
Side effects
Patchouli oil is generally thought to be safe for use on the skin or inhaled when diluted. Remember, though, never apply pure essential oils directly to your skin without a carrier oil and never consume essential oils. This could cause skin irritation or other serious side effects.
