Patchouli

Patchouli Isn’t Just for Hippies

Patchouli has long been brushed off because of its association with the hippie culture of the sixties. However, patchouli remains a valuable part of today’s herbal medicine. It has many functions that you may find useful today. And it has a rich history that gives it character.

The patchouli plant is native to India and China. It’s now cultivated all over the world, though. At one time, it was used for many purposes in the East. The oil has been used as a bug repellent, a treatment for headaches, and even used to treat tumors. While it’s no longer used to treat serious illnesses such as cancer, it is used for several health conditions.

Patchouli is most often used today in aromatherapy. Few people who smell the luxurious scent of patchouli would disagree that it is an inviting aroma. It can be used to treat problems such as fatigue, stress, constipation, and it can also be used to help suppress the appetite. And it will come as no surprise to many that patchouli is also an aphrodisiac.

Patchouli is also used as a fragrance in colognes and perfumes. Many hair and skin products also contain the herb. In addition to using it for its delicious scent, patchouli also has health benefits for the skin.

If you’re suffering from eczema, dermatitis, or acne patchouli oil can be a great benefit. When applied to affected areas it can be soothing and help to relieve problems. In addition it can be used to treat minor scrapes and skin irritations. If you have athlete’s foot, patchouli is an antifungal that will help to treat the infection. Patchouli is also, strangely enough, a flavoring for some foods and drinks.

In studies done in India, patchouli was shown to work against many fungal infections and even fight many bacterial strains. That’s probably why it works so well at treating skin infections and irritations.

And if you want to avoid using commercial insect repellants, patchouli oil still works very well at fighting mosquitoes that cause problems such as malaria and West Nile virus. Applying the oil to your skin every two hours should keep you free from the little bloodsucking insects.

Patchouli is a good herb to have around to treat many different skin conditions. It’s also got uses in aromatherapy and cosmetics that make it a popular herb. While its popularity was at its peak during the hippy days, it’s still a modern treasure.