POGOSTEMON CABLIN (PATCHOULI) LEAF OIL

Pogostemon Cablin Leaf Oil – commonly known as patchouli oil – is a steam-distilled essential oil extracted from the aromatic leaves of the patchouli plant, a species native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and the Philippines. Its name comes from the Tamil words: patchai (green) and ellai (leaf), reflecting its botanical heritage. Traditionally, the oil was prized for treating skin irritations, insect bites, wounds, and scarring – remedies long used in Southeast Asian medicine. Today, modern science has validated many of these ancestral uses.

The key bioactive in patchouli oil, patchouli alcohol, has been shown to possess potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. In vitro and in vivo studies confirm that it inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes such as TNF-α, IL-6, and COX-2, making it highly effective in calming irritated or inflamed skin. These qualities support its role in managing conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Patchouli oil also demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy, with proven activity against skin-relevant pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Propionibacterium acnes. These effects enhance its utility in formulations designed for acne-prone, reactive, or compromised skin. Furthermore, its ability to promote collagen synthesis and upregulate VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) expression has been linked to accelerated wound healing and improved tissue regeneration.

Beyond its dermatological value, Patchouli Essential Oil is also prized in aromatherapy for its calming, grounding effect on the nervous system – offering not just visible results but also a sensory experience that aligns with LAST skincare philosophies.