11/22/2025
I have found that people either love or have a distaste for patchouli. This herb has a long lasting and pervasive aroma that smells of rich earth. It acts like a diuretic, helps with digestion, has a sedative effect on the nervous system, lowers fevers and is said to be an aphrodisiac. The oil is frequently used in aromatherapy to help with low libido, depression and other stress related issues.
Patchouli should be grown in rich, moist soil with high humidity. It is usually propagated by greenwood cuttings in late spring or it can be divided in spring or autumn. Pinch back plants in the spring to encourage a bushy plant!
Use patchouli in money charms; sprinkle over cash or tuck some leaves in your wallet, to encourage the return of money to you. Also use in fertility and love sachets or baths.
When working with the essential oil, keep in mind patchouli is considered a base note; this means its scent evolves slowly and stays around longer. Base note oils slows down the evaporation of the other oils you are blending it with. Patchouli blends well with citrus scents such as bergamot, sweet orange, grapefruit or tangerine. Florals work well too; you might consider lavender, rose, ylang ylang or geranium. Or go spicy … add cardamon, cinnamon, ginger or black pepper! Have fun with it; you never know what awesome scent you’ll come up with!
This is for informational purposes only. If you have a medical concern, seek the advice of a healthcare professional.