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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.



PATCHOULI
(Pogostemon cablin) and (Pogostemon heyneanus)
p. cablin 1
Image

PROPAGATION: By seed and semi-wood cuttings taken in fall or winter. Annual or tender perennial.
NEEDS: Full sun to partial shade and loamy, neutral soil.

USES

CULINARY:
Fresh leaves of P. cablin used as a seasoning. The dried leaves of P. heyneanus used to flavor alcoholic beverages.

COSMETIC:
Used to rejuvenate mature skin. Used as a deodorant to mask body odors.

CRAFTS:
Used in potpourri and has some fixative property.

AROMATHERAPY:
Used for anxiety, but too much acts as a sedative.

OTHER:
Used in the making of India ink. The oil is used extensively in perfume industry and is contained in fragrances like Tabu, Bill Blass, Polo, etc.
The oil is steam distilled from the leaves and stems. The oil is of better quality if the dried leaves are aged before distilling.




©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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