Botanical Name: Pogostemon cablin

A middle note with a medium earthy aroma. Before it became popular in Europe, Indian shawls and Indian ink were identified by the unique patchouli odor. Patchouli is a very fragrant herb with soft oval leaves and square stems. It grows from 2 to 3 feet in height and provides an unusual odor that is nonetheless characteristic of patchouli when the leaves are rubbed. It became very popular throughout the British Empire when silks and cashmere shawls from India were packed with Patchouli to discourage insects during shipping, the scent being the final proof of origin. Genuine India Ink was also scented with it. Patchouli improves with age, and the aged oil is what is preferred over that which is freshly harvested. In aromatherapy and perfumery, Patchouli provides an excellent fixative that can help extend other, more expensive oils. The color of the oil is affected by the distillation machine; if the young leaves are distilled in an iron vessel, the color will be deep amber to brown in color, but if done in a stainless steel vessel, the oil will be slightly lighter in color.

Origin: Indonesia

Processing Method: Steam Distilled

Description / Color / Consistency: A thin, brown to dark brown liquid.

Cautions: Dilute before use; for external use only. May cause skin irritation in some individuals; a skin test is recommended prior to use. Contact with eyes should be avoided.