Pogestemon heyneanus, referred also as Patchouli Java, is a bushy herb of the mint family, Lamiaceae. Originated in India, it grows widely in the Java forests. Grows also in China and Indonesia. Patchouli plants are cultivated for their oil. This is because Patchouli produces intense, heavy scent that is used in many perfumes. P. heyneanus is one of the two species from all the members in this family, can be used to make this dark amber colour Patchouli oil. Patchouli's distinctive, oriental aroma is heavy, earthy but very sensual and penetrating. Its aroma is great as insect repellent and more recently it has been also used in aromatherapy and in alternative medicine. When used in aromatherapy it reduces appetite and help to relieve the headache. In India it is used as anointing oil in some sexual practices. It is also treated as an aphrodisiac. Description Patchouli is hardy in USDA zones 10 and higher. It is tender perennial in cooler zones, reaching 1.5 metre in height. Plant's erect stems reach even 0.9 metre (2-3 feet). Flowers of P. heyneanus are tinged with purplish pink. Flowers bloom in late autumn. It will lend a very sensual fragrance to those who are around. Patchouli plant and its oil is claimed to have many health benefits, working as antidepressant, diarrhea, colds, antiviral, antiseptic and antibacterial. It reduces fluid retention and has rejuvenating properties.
