Home Cosmetic Science Talk Formulating An essential oil for those who find freedom in the unknown.

  • An essential oil for those who find freedom in the unknown.

    Posted by mikethair on November 23, 2024 at 5:40 pm

    And it’s one of my all-time favourites. Yes, it’s Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin). An oil that’s stimulating and insistent. Sensuous and provocative. And reaches deep into your emotions.

    It’s not an essential oil that everyone falls in love with. But, I cannot deny it’s unique!

    Patchouli provides a woody, earthy, resinous, and smoky fragrance. Its complex bouquet evokes notes of moss, leather, and often even dark chocolate. A fragrance for those who find solace in shadows.

    I use Patchouli as a base note to give stability to my formulations.

    Patchouli grows as a shrub for about 1 metre, and the main areas are Indonesia (Java, Sumatra and Sulawesi), Malaysia, India, China, and Brazil. I prefer the Indonesian varieties.

    The plant parts used are the leaf and stem. The essential oil is extracted via steam distillation.

    And if you are into creating essential oil blends, it’s a great base note. Effective for anchoring those fleeting middle and top notes.

    In my experience as the co-founder and Master Formulator at Indochine Natural (2006 – 2023), it blends well with Lavender, Bergamot, and Clary Sage. Also, I have used it with Cedarwood or Geranium.

    Dr Mike Thair

    • This discussion was modified 1 week, 2 days ago by  mikethair.
    mikethair replied 6 days, 23 hours ago 2 Members · 2 Replies
  • 2 Replies
  • chemicalmatt

    Member
    November 26, 2024 at 1:30 pm

    Thanks, Mike. Patchouli was the scent of choice for hippie chicks when I was a young man. Always reminds me of 1970’s love affairs.

  • mikethair

    Member
    November 26, 2024 at 5:25 pm

    Yes indeed. I have exactly the same memories of the 70s. I backpacked extensively through SE Asia. Those were the days!!!!

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