Patchouli derives its name from the Tamil words for green leaf. It has been used in perfumes for centuries but became particularly popular in the hippy era of the 1960s and 70s due partly to the fact its heavy aroma could cover the smell of cannabis. But also a fact mostly forgotten today is that during the Vietnam War American soldiers used patchouli to mask the smells of enemy graves. War protesters back home wore it themselves to show that "we are all one race, we are the same as the enemy soldiers." Add to this that the god Krishna is said to inhabit patchouli and that it can be used as a conditioner for dreadlocks it is easy to see why it has become associated with the peace and free love movement. But patchouli is not just for "hippies". It is used in many high quality perfumes including more than half of perfumes for men. As well as its cosmetic uses it is said to relieve certain skin disorders such as athlete's foot, chapped skin, dermatitis, eczema and oily skin. It can relieve stress and aid relaxation. It can also be used as an insect repellent.
Latin Name : Pogostemon Cablin. Part of Plant Used : Dried Leaves. Source : Indonesia. Extraction Method : Steam Distillation.
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