Patchouli Essential Oil - An Opulent Oil Known as Liquid Gold

Of all the essential oils available, patchouli has one of the most distinctive fragrances — strong and musky, with deep earthy undertones. Native to India and Malaysia, dried patchouli leaves were commonly used as packing materials to protect Chinese silk and Indian cashmere from moths during transit. As these shawls and scarves made their way to Victorian England, patchouli gained a reputation for being a luxurious fragrance reserved for high society. In Southeast Asia, it was commonly used to repel mosquitoes and kill bed bugs.

From its calming, sedative effects to its ability to ease stress and tension and combat infection, it's easy to see why patchouli is often called "liquid gold." Today, it's a key ingredient in some of MONQ's most beloved blends — including Sexy MONQ, where it joins jasmine and ylang-ylang in a grounding, sensual blend.

The History of Patchouli

The uses of patchouli predate recorded history. Although it is known to originate in Southeast Asia, the earliest documented records of its existence come from ancient Egypt — where trade in patchouli was already well established. Remarkably, 10 gallons of patchouli oil were found buried in King Tut's tomb, a testament to how highly it was prized.

Patchouli also has a long and vibrant history in China, where it made its appearance during 420–589 CE. It was commonly used for medicinal purposes, such as regulating vital bodily energies and treating the common cold. At the turn of the 18th century, Chinese silk merchants discovered its insecticidal properties and began wrapping their silks around dried patchouli leaves, allowing their cargo to arrive in the Middle East undamaged and free from pests.

The popularity of patchouli grew during the 19th century, as its scent became associated with luxury and status in Europe. Since Chinese silk could only be afforded by the wealthiest members of society, patchouli's aroma became a sign of social standing. As global trade expanded, patchouli was exported around the world and became one of the most popular medicinal botanicals available. Today, the largest cultivators are Malaysia, Brazil, China, and India, where it thrives in tropical climates.

Terpene Properties

A range of terpenes makes up patchouli essential oil. Of these, eight are noted as responsible for its quality, consistency, remedial purposes, and aroma.

• A-Bulnesene is an organic substance produced by patchouli that works as an anti-platelet aggregation agent and antiviral.
• A-Guinane is an anti-inflammatory with a spicy odor and taste reminiscent of pepper. It helps reduce inflammation of the joints and muscles to provide relief from aches and pains.
• B-Caryophyllene has anti-stress properties and contributes to the sweet notes of the patchouli aroma. Research on beta-caryophyllene's interaction with CB2 receptors has illuminated its calming mechanism.
• Aciphyllene is an antibacterial agent that contributes to the fragrance of patchouli.
• B-Patchoulene possesses antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help eliminate fungal infections while reducing inflammation in the body.
• A-Patchoulene acts as a sedative, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. It can induce and improve sleep, help eliminate fungal infections, and reduce inflammation.
• Seychellene is a potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic that also contributes to the scent of patchouli.
• Patchouli alcohol is the compound that provides the majority of patchouli essential oil's healing properties — acting as an antiviral, antibacterial, sedative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, and antifungal. A study on patchouli alcohol's anti-influenza activity highlighted its remarkable antiviral potential.

The terpene constituents in patchouli oil work in harmony to provide benefits to both the mind and body. For a deeper look at how terpenes power essential oil blends, see our complete guide to essential oils.

Uses for Patchouli Essential Oil

The health benefits of patchouli essential oil are vast, with therapeutic qualities targeting a wide range of ailments and conditions. It possesses aphrodisiac, antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, cytophylactic, cicatrizant, diuretic, deodorizing, fungicidal, febrifuge, insecticidal, and sedative properties.

As noted in the history above, its ability to work as an insect repellent has been known for centuries. But its value as a medicinal botanical continues to expand as modern research uncovers new benefits. Here are some of the most notable:

• Sedative actions on hypersensitivity
• Supports healthy blood circulation
• Helps ease mood swings and promote emotional balance
• Supports skin healing and recovery
• Natural deodorizing properties
• Effective insect and mite repellent
• Fever-fighting (febrifuge) abilities

Patchouli essential oil is able to work from head to toe. It can act as a natural wellness tool, reducing the need for harsh interventions. To explore more ways patchouli and other essential oils may support your wellbeing, visit our stress and wellness blog.

Eases Stress and Tension

When used in aromatherapy, the terpene constituents in patchouli essential oil help stimulate the production of pleasure hormones such as dopamine and serotonin, which help eliminate feelings of anger and stress and tension.

The release of these hormones helps relieve tension and stress, which can also result in improved sleep quality. The combination of better sleep with dopamine and serotonin release can uplift mood and bring an overall more positive outlook on life. According to Healthline's overview of patchouli oil uses and benefits, the oil has long been associated with calming emotional states.

Sedative

The sedative effects provided by patchouli oil on hypersensitivity work to relieve convulsions and coughs induced by hyperreactivity or hypersensitivity of the nerves. Typically, the main culprit for this hypersensitivity is inflammation — which patchouli is well-positioned to address because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The sedative effects of patchouli essential oil relax the body and mind while encouraging restful and healthy sleep. This proves especially beneficial for those who struggle with insomnia and can lead to improvements in metabolic rate, cognitive function, and mood. Its sedative effect on hypersensitivity can also reduce allergic responses or breathing difficulties while helping to boost overall immune health.

Antifungal

Patchouli essential oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal infections. A peer-reviewed study on patchouli's antifungal properties confirmed its efficacy against a range of fungal strains. This proves beneficial for treating issues such as ringworm and athlete's foot — by applying patchouli diluted in a carrier oil to the affected area, its antifungal properties can take effect within minutes.

In terms of fungal infections of the respiratory system, patchouli essential oil can help limit their spread and growth. Respiratory fungal infections can be serious and result from inhaling fungal spores during normal breathing. They may be relieved by inhaling patchouli essential oil as a mist — a vaporizer allows for maximum distribution and absorption. If you don't have a vaporizer at hand, a steam bath with a few drops of the oil is also effective.

Insecticide

Both historically and in the modern day, patchouli essential oil acts as a strong and effective insect repellent. It has been used since ancient times to keep mosquitoes, bed bugs, ants, flies, moths, and fleas away — providing a natural way to eradicate pests.

This is especially useful in regions where diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease are prevalent. Repelling mosquitoes and ticks minimizes the risk of developing these diseases. In fact, the insecticidal properties in patchouli essential oil are so effective that it has become one of the most used ingredients in fumigants, mosquito repellent sprays, body lotions, incense sticks, and vaporizers.

It is important to remember that a little goes a long way with patchouli essential oil. To prevent the scent from lingering excessively, products containing it — especially room diffusers — should not be used in enclosed spaces for extended periods.

Diuretic

Patchouli oil has proven to be an effective diuretic that stimulates the quantity and frequency of urination. This is important for a range of health conditions related to water retention. It has also proven beneficial for increasing appetite, reducing uric acid levels, and helping remove toxins from the body. The reduction of uric acid reduces the risk of developing kidney stones, gallbladder stones, and gout.

Safety and Precautions

While patchouli essential oil provides outstanding health benefits, it's important to use it correctly to avoid potential side effects. When used as directed, patchouli essential oil can become an important part of your daily health and wellness routine and prove invaluable in remedying a range of ailments.

Due to the concentrated nature of this essential oil, it is important to dilute the oil in a carrier oil or lotion and exercise care when using it topically on the skin.

Patchouli essential oil should never be ingested, as it can prove hazardous when taken internally. If the essential oil is accidentally ingested, never try to induce vomiting, as this could allow the oil to enter the lungs. Instead, contact the nearest poison control center immediately for further assistance.

For some individuals, excess exposure to patchouli essential oil can lead to vomiting, dizziness, and coughing. If you experience any of these symptoms, moving to a well-ventilated location away from the oil will help alleviate them. The undiluted oil should never be applied directly to the nostrils, as this could result in a burning sensation.

This oil is known to combust at high temperatures and should always be stored away from open flames or high heat. If the oil should ever ignite, water should not be used to extinguish it, as this can cause the fire to spread.

There have been no clinical or scientific studies on the effects of patchouli oil during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Therefore, it is best to avoid its use if pregnant or nursing.

Final Thoughts About Patchouli Essential Oil

The rich, amber color of patchouli oil — combined with its remarkable fragrance and healing properties — earned it the name "liquid gold." In ancient history, patchouli oil was literally worth its weight in gold because of its high demand by royalty in ancient Egypt.

Although some find the initial scent of patchouli essential oil to be bold and intense, it dries down to a sweet and musky fragrance that stimulates the release of dopamine and serotonin, the pleasure hormones. Its versatility and distinct aroma make it a popular addition to perfumes, while its insecticidal properties keep many insects at bay.

Once the reserve of the rich and famous — and later a signature scent of the countercultural movement — patchouli oil is now celebrated as a powerful wellness ingredient. It shines in MONQ's Sexy blend, where it pairs with jasmine and ylang-ylang in a warm, grounding combination. It also plays a role in several other original MONQ diffuser blends, including Forest MONQ, which combines patchouli with fir and frankincense for an earthy, grounding experience.

Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general wellness and educational purposes only. Please note that while individual essential oil ingredients may have been shown to exhibit certain independent effects when used alone, the specific blends of ingredients contained in MONQ diffusers have not been tested. No specific claims are being made that use of any MONQ diffusers will lead to any of the effects discussed above. Additionally, please note that MONQ diffusers have not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. MONQ diffusers are not intended to be used in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, prevention, or treatment of any disease or medical condition. If you have a health condition or concern, please consult a physician or your alternative health care provider prior to using MONQ diffusers. MONQ blends should not be inhaled into the lungs. Why? It works better that way. No Nicotine Ever in MONQ Pens. Inhale through the mouth, exhale through the nose. MONQ Diffusers are not intended for individuals under 18, or women who are pregnant or nursing.