If you’ve never heard of patchouli or why some folks just can’t get enough of it, here is some interesting information:

1. The scent: Patchouli has a strong, earthy scent that is used as a base note in over half of men’s colognes. It was popular in the form of incense back in the 1960’s and 1970’s. To some people the scent of patchouli is exotic, sensual, and luxurious, but to others it’s too forceful and repellent. (Basically, you either love it or hate it.) I had never really smelled it before I started making soap. It’s still not my favorite scent, but it has definitely grown on me.

2. Patchouli is the only essential oil I know of that actually gets better as it ages. The leaves must be fermented and aged before being distilled, which can take as long as 24 hours. Even then, the translucent yellow oil smells harsh. As it ages, it develops patchouli’s distinctive scent.

3. There are different qualities of patchouli, depending on where it is harvested. Patchouli that comes from China is light and not as strong as the darker, more viscous oil that comes from Indonesia. I’ve learned to get the dark stuff! Favorite sources: Liberty Natural (dark or aged) or New Directions Aromatics
Sources:
How Stuff Works
Wikipedia