Back in the early 90's I distinctly remember my younger sister burning incense in the scent of patchouli. I wasn't exactly a fan then, but just like taste buds, how we feel about certain fragrances evolves over time.

First, let's start with the obvious:

What is Patchouli?

Patchouli is a bushy perrenial herb that grows small light pink flowers. This plant can grow almost 2.5' tall. It's very aromatic with lush green leaves. It's these leaves, when using steam distillation of them dried, that produces patchouli essential oil.

What Does Patchouli Smell Like?

Patchouli oil's aroma is multi-faceted. It smells musky, but also sweet and spicy. I've found that most people either love it or hate it, with no in between. 

The incense my sister used to burn was just straight up patchouli without any other perfume oils added. It reminded me of dirt and sweat. (Honestly.) However, a few decades later, I've found that patchouli can smell quite seductive when it complements other notes.

What Scent Goes Well with Patchouli?

While many people use patchouli oil as perfume, it's also a great base note and creates a pleasant foundation for other oils. For A Girl's Gotta Spa! Manifest Perfume, we chose amber and vanilla. It creates the perfect balance of warmth and sweetness. 

Sandalwood, citrus, jasmine and rose oils also complement patchouli.

Since A Girl's Gotta Spa! perfumes are roll-ons, it makes it easy to mix them on your wrist. So our Known Perfume (rose) would blend nicely. Soar, a citrus and musk perfume, would also smell quite lovely. Arise (jasmine) and Resilient (sandalwood) would also work well.

The fragrance of patchouli is wonderful for helping to alleviate anxiety and can be used when meditating.

If you haven't given patchouli a try lately, I encourage you to give it another chance.