Patchouli

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a species of plant from the family Lamiaceae, commonly known as the mint or deadnettle family. The plant grows as a bushy herb, with erect stems reaching around 75 centimeters in height and bearing small, pale pink-white flowers. The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia, and is now extensively cultivated in China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and South America.

Description[edit | edit source]

Patchouli is a bushy herb of the mint family, with erect stems. The plant grows to a height of two or three feet, and produces small, pale pink-white flowers. The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia, and is now extensively cultivated in many countries for its essential oil.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Patchouli is grown for its scent, which is used in perfumery and aromatherapy. The plant prefers a warm, tropical climate, but can also be grown in temperate regions under glass. The plant is propagated from cuttings and prefers a well-drained soil.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Patchouli is best known for its essential oil, which is obtained through steam distillation of the plant's dried leaves. The oil has a strong, characteristic scent that is often associated with the hippie culture of the 1960s. Patchouli oil is used in perfumery, as a scent in incense, and in aromatherapy.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Patchouli Resources
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Contributors: Bonnu, Prab R. Tumpati, MD