Patchouli has a spicy, warm, sensuous fragrance. It was a popular scent with the counter-culture of the '60s and '70s and today is still widely enjoyed. Patchouli oil is a natural insect repellent and thought to have relaxing properties. The plant is a member of the mint family and grows well in warm, tropical climates. Commercially, the oil is extracted from the leaves using a solvent and must go through a distillation process. This method is difficult to do at home. However, using the dried leaves of the plant and letting them diffuse in oil is a more practical way to make your own patchouli oil.
Clean the glass mason jar and lid with warm soapy water. Dry jar thoroughly.
Fill the jar with dried patchouli leaves, leaving 1 inch from the top empty.
Pour carrier oil in the jar over the dried patchouli. Fill to the top and screw on lid. Shake the jar.
Boil a saucepan full of water. Take it off the heat, and then put the jar in the water. Let it "cook" until water cools. Remove jar from water and shake well.
Store jar in a cool, dry place for 30 days. Each day, shake the jar of patchouli mixture well.
Line a funnel with cheesecloth and stick the end of the funnel into a decorative glass bottle. Pour your patchouli mixture through the funnel. All the pieces of leaves will get strained out, leaving you with your own patchouli oil! Wear often and enjoy! It also makes a great massage oil.
Tips
Dried patchouli leaves are usually available at your local health food or herbal store. You can also order dried patchouli online.