By Sarah LoBisco, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
November 14th, 2007
Due to its distant odor, most people will claim to either love or hate Patchouli. But, maybe our nose shouldn’t be the final decision maker. Patchouli is known as a general tonic with high anti-microbial activity (due to its alcohol constituent, patchoulol) and is very beneficial to the skin. It helps prevent wrinkles, chapping and relieves itching. This makes it suitable to use for dermatitis, eczema, acne, dandruff, insect bites, hives and any other skin condition. Patchouli can also be used for congestion, weight control, fluid retention and cellulite. Furthermore, it is soothing to digestion, a decongestant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. These are all very good reasons to not ignore this very fragrant oil. Also, the fragrance itself is said to be sedating and calming and may have some influence on sexual energy.
Patchouli consists of over 24 different sesquiterpenes. These sesquiterpenes have been found to have the ability to cross the blood brain barrier and to erase the mis-programmed information. Bringing blood and oxygen to the brain along with changing our perceptual programming could by why it is so useful in curbing appetite, and easing anxiety.
Now that the colder months are upon us, it’s a perfect time to cook all those yummy stews and soups that are loaded with green leafy veggies. The vegetables in the cruciferous family, such as spinach, kale and broccoli, are very high in Vitamin C, fiber and many other nutrients. Furthermore, researchers have discovered that these vegetables contain 3, 3’-Diindolylmethane, which is beneficial to the immune system. It is is anti-microbial, anti-viral, and anti-cancer.