June 6, 2011

Earthly Delight Monday-Featuring Ingredients That Make Handmade Soap Special-Patchouli

Patchouli – (Pogostemon cablin) a bushy herb in the mint family. Patchouli grows well in warm tropical climates and originates from the tropical regions of Asia.

The heavy, earthy scent of Patchouli has been used in perfumes for centuries and it is now commonly used in incense, insect repellent and alternative medicine.

Patchouli is an excellent base note and fixative (a fixative slows the evaporation of other more volatile oils.) It is interesting to note that Patchouli improves with age, and that the aged product is what is preferred over freshly harvested. A little patchouli can be used to give other oils a mysterious earthy note. Patchouli blends well with almost any essential oil making it a must have for the blending of interesting fragrant essential oil blends.

  • Patchouli is considered an important oil for bringing about the balance of relaxation and stimulation.

  • Patchouli is said to bring the three forces of the body creativity, heart center and intellect into sync.

  • It is also said that patchouli may bring about prosperity and abundance. Hmmm- really?

6 comments:

Anne-Marie said...

I go through phases where I like Patchouli and where I don't like it. Now is definitely a 'yay patchouli' time and I've been using a great patchouli balm lately. Bring on the prosperity! ;)

Tierra Verde Handmade Soap said...

I used to not like Patchouli at all,but have come to appreciate it's ability to play nice with so many other oils. Yum!

Tara said...

I love patchouli. Always have. I like its earthy, hippy vibe.

Jennifer Young said...

I adore Patchouli..... It is my favourite right now... Jen xo

Bobbins and Balms said...

i remember when i first smelt patchouli...i hated it and i was determined to never use it..LOL, but iv grown to love it and its a brilliant fixative for essential oils :)

Tierra Verde Handmade Soap said...

Patchouli rocks!