Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a earthy essential oil with a earthy, deep aroma and a base note. Steam distillation from leaf, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Lavender, Bergamot (FCF), Cedarwood (Atlas). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 10%.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Earthy |
| Chemical family | Sesquiterpenol |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | leaf |
| Origin | Indonesia, India, China |
| Blending factor | 5 |
| Volatility index | 5 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 48.0 |
| CAS number | 8014-09-3 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 10% |
| Max facial dilution | 5% |
| Pregnancy | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Nursing | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~2 months) |
| Cats | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Evidence: Traditional — Traditional use for skin and perfumery; Pogostemon cablin review (Swamy & Sinniah, 2015).
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
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Blends well with
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Frequently asked questions
What does Patchouli essential oil smell like?
Patchouli has a earthy, deep aroma, classed as a earthy oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Patchouli?
For topical use, keep Patchouli at or below 10%, and 5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Patchouli safe to use during pregnancy?
Patchouli is generally considered suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Is Patchouli safe to use around children?
Patchouli is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 2 months). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Patchouli safe around pets?
For cats — generally lower-risk when well diluted and diffused sparingly; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Patchouli blend well with?
Patchouli pairs well with Lavender, Bergamot (FCF), Cedarwood (Atlas), Frankincense (Carterii), Vetiver.