Benefits Of Patchouli Oil For Hair (2 Examples Of How To Use)

You may be more familiar with the fragrant scent of patchouli in perfumes but the distilled oil from this plant has many benefits for your hair.

Patchouli oil contains astringent, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties which are very beneficial for hair. These properties make patchouli oil particularly great for those suffering from conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff.

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What Is Patchouli Oil?

Patchouli is a flowering plant from the Southeast known for its aromatic scent. Of the three species of Patchouli, the one used most often is the ‘Pogostemon Cablin’.

Related to the mint plant, this plant is native to Southeast Asia and has been used for years by many cultures for its scent and benefits.

It grows in dappled light at the base of trees and was first used by the Tamil people of India. It is said to have gained its name from the Hindu word pacholi, meaning ‘to scent’.

The dried leaves are used to create the intense essential oil which has an earthy, musky scent and certain beneficial properties.

One of these is its use as an astringent as well as being anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal. These properties make it a great oil for dandruff and other skin issues on the scalp by inhibiting fungal growth and cleansing the skin.

2 Main Benefits Of Patchouli Oil On Hair

Since its first widespread popularity in the 1960s, this Asian plant oil has been used for countless issues thanks to its natural properties.

The main benefits of patchouli oil for hair are:

Anti-Fungal

For scalps suffering from skin conditions, patchouli oil makes a great natural treatment. Its antiseptic and astringent properties make it great for keeping the damaged areas clean and free from further damage by infection.

This study found that patchouli was effective in anti-fungal activity against specific strains alongside other similar essential oils.

Anti- Inflammatory

Patchouli oil is said to be good for reducing inflammation and swelling of the skin. This makes it great for use with irritated skin.

Eczema, dandruff, and even psoriasis sufferers can benefit from using oil like patchouli to keep their scalp clean and healthy while reducing the irritation and itching caused by those conditions.

How To Use Patchouli Oil On Hair

There are a few ways to use patchouli hair for your hair listed below. It is important to note that essential oils should always be used with a carrier oil due to their intense and refined nature.

Direct application to the skin can cause irritation, dryness, itching, and even burns so it is necessary to infuse drops of essential oils into plain oils before applying.

Hot Oil Treatment

A hot oil treatment can help to reduce dandruff, dryness, and frizz in your hair. By applying the hot oil, it works to seal your hair cuticle which reduces split ends. The heat opens the cuticle while the oil coats the hair and seals the moisture inside.

Oily hair types may opt for a lightweight oil such as jojoba while drier hair can benefit from coconut oil due to its thicker, greasier formula that coats the hair strands.

Simple Patchouli Hot Oil Treatment:

1. Use between 3-6 tablespoons of your chosen oil in a bowl and heat for 10 seconds in the microwave until it is fully melted and warm. Make sure it is not too hot and will not burn you if applied to the scalp.

2. Add a few drops of patchouli essential oil to the mix and then apply all over the hair, paying extra attention to the ends.

3. Massage into the scalp and then cover your head with a cap or wrap and leave for 20 minutes.

4. Rinse the oil out and condition it like normal in the shower.

Pre-Poo

Pre-pooing refers to the application of a hair treatment before normal shampooing and conditioning. Oil can be used for this purpose to prevent shampoo from stripping all the natural moisture from your hair.

The oil coats the hair strand and protects the natural moisture while the shampoo cleanses the scalp, and patchouli can be incorporated into this treatment.

Oils make a great pre-poo treatment although shea butter, aloe vera, and simple conditioner can be used too.

Easy Patchouli Pre-Poo Treatment:

1. Simply take your chosen pre-poo treatment, whether that be avocado oil, shea butter, or a store-bought product.

2. Add a few drops of patchouli essential oil and mix well to create a fragrant mixture.

3. Apply all over the hair and cover with a cap or wrap, leaving it to soak for as long as possible.

Depending on the texture, dryness, and length of your hair, pre-poo can be left on for a few hours or even overnight.

Also Read: How To Use Batana Oil for Hair Growth (Easy Guide)

Risks Of Using Patchouli Oil

If the patchouli oil is not diluted properly into a carrier oil, it may cause irritation and itching, particularly on damaged skin. 

Essential oils are very concentrated, making them able to burn the skin if undiluted with prolonged contact. Therefore, caution should always be used when using oils.

Always avoid your eyes, mouth, and nose when using essential oils. If you get patchouli oil in your eyes, rinse immediately and seek medical attention.

Where To Buy Patchouli Oil

Always try to buy a high-quality patchouli oil from a reputable producer. Check reviews and safety warnings before purchasing and using the chosen essential oil to ensure you do not harm yourself.  

Here are three excellent patchouli oils we found on Amazon:

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