Extracted from a plant belonging to the “mint” family is an essential oil known as Patchouli Oil. This oil is derived from a “bushy herb” belonging to the “Pogostemon cablin” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is extracted from the dried leaves of the plant using the “steam distillation” process. In addition, this oil is light golden brown to dark amber brown in colour. This oil is frequently used in the manufacturing of perfumes due to its pleasant aroma.
A. Chemical constituents of Patchouli Oil:
This oil is obtained from the dried leaves of a plant belonging to the “Pogostemon cablin” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil mainly comprises of organic compounds that include Germacrene-B, Patchoulol, and Norpatchoulenol. However, the major organic chemical component found in this oil is patchoulol, which essentially is a sesquiterpine alcohol.
B. The uses and benefits of Patchouli Oil:
There are a number of benefits that one can gain by using this oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Antifungal:
This oil when used helps in curbing the growth of viruses and preventing viral infections, thereby serving as an antiviral.
2. Anti-inflammatory:
This oil exhibits an “anti-inflammatory” property when used, and thereby helps in suppressing conditions such as inflammation and swelling.
3. Antiseptic:
This oil when used also helps in treating internal and external wounds, and thereby serves as an antiseptic.
4. Aphrodisiac:
This oil also helps stimulate sexual desire in an individual when used, and thereby acts as an aphrodisiac.
5. Antidepressant:
This oil also helps in maintaining a good mental state when used by suppressing depression, and thus serves as an antidepressant.
C. The adverse effects of the Patchouli Oil:
There are a number of adverse effects that may occur on using this oil they are as follows:
- The use of this oil can severely affect pregnancy, and hence pregnant women must avoid using it.
- This oil when used may also lead to skin irritation especially in individuals who have sensitive skin, and hence it must be used carefully.
