Botanical Name: Pogostemon cablin
Common Name:
- English: Patchouli
- Ayurvedic: Paachi
- Also, known as: Paanari, Panari, Pachi, Patchouly, Guang Huo Xiang, Pachouli
Habitat: Native to Asia
Origin: India
Harvested: Wild or cultivated
Parts Used: Leaves
General Information:
Pogostemon cablin, is a perennial bushy herb that grows up to 100 cm in tall of the mint family. It has oblong leaves and whorls of light-purple or lavender flowers. Stems are erect and with multiple branches on the upper part. Older branch is stout and nearly round but the younger one is square and densely covered with gray-yellow pubescence. Leaves are opposite, rounded to broadly ovate, 3-11cm long, 2-6 cm wide, and with acute or obtuse apex, margin with blunt teeth or sometimes split, hairy sides, and densely hairy veins. Hairy petiole is 1 to 6cm in length. Patchouli requires full sun to bring out its fragrance. A unique aroma will send out when it is rubbed. Flowers are small, purple, pale pink-white flowers. Nutlets are nearly spherical and slightly flattened. Because the oil makes a great base note, it is used in more than one out of three perfume blends. Other herbal fragrances that are sometimes blended with patchouli include basil, bergamot, geranium, juniper, lavender, myrrh, neroli, pine, sandalwood, and rose. Patchouli oil is a flavoring agent for chewing gum, baked goods, candy, and beverages. Commercial perfumes that contain patchouli include Tabu, Bill Blass, and Polo.
How to use:
Powdered Herb:
There are different ways to use powdered herb.
Food Preparation: You can add powdered herb to any super food herbal smoothie, sauces, spreads and even cookies. Also for children, you can mix powdered herb with honey or glycerin to make paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help medicine go down. This method is also known as “Electuaries”.
Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, gives you assurance that the contents of the capsules are pure herb and no filler or any other products. These capsules can be taken with liquid.
Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.
Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot.
Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY
This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.