This $8 Essential Oil Can Help Relieve Pain and Slow Down Signs of Skin Aging
It has a familiar scent.
It might feel like we need to search for a product specifically to nix wrinkles or one that’s only meant to relieve pain. But, the good news is there’s a cheap yet effective essential oil that can ease both those health woes. Patchouli oil is sure to become one of your go-to’s when you need to soothe pain, reverse signs of aging skin, and keep stress at bay.
What is patchouli oil?
This essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the patchouli plant, which is also called Pogostemon patchouli. It’s known for having a strong yet sweet musky smell that might be overpowering to some. It’s often diluted with carrier oils such as jojoba and grapeseed oil before applying to skin to prevent any irritation. Also, it’s used as an ingredient in lotions and soaps.
What is patchouli oil good for?
A study published in the journal Molecules noted that patchouli oil contains several chemical compounds including eugenol and seychellene. These compounds were shown to have strong anti-inflammatory properties to reduce abdominal and chronic pain. Researchers added that using this oil for aromatherapy through inhaling the scent or placing a few drops in bath water works to have this pain-relieving effect.
Taking in the smell of this essential oil can help melt away stress as well. Research published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine compared the relaxation benefits of inhaling patchouli oil when mixed with sweet almond oil versus smelling the almond oil on its own. The study authors found that smelling the patchouli-sweet almond oil mixture lowered stress and anxiety in emergency room nurses much better than the group who only smelled the almond oil. They credited this to patchouli’s ability to reduce sympathetic nerve activity, which activates stress-related responses like more alertness and increased heart rate in the body.
Another key benefit of patchouli oil is that it aids in reversing signs of skin aging caused by UV exposures such as wrinkles, redness, and age spots. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology looked at these positive effects when applied topically to mice. Researchers found that 6 to 9 mg. of this oil was enough to help protect the skin’s collagen and elasticity fibers against UV damage. Click through for more amazing benefits of essential oils
Where can I find this oil?
You can find it online with a brand like Gya Labs Patchouli Essential Oil (Buy on Amazon, $7.89) and start using it as part of your daily routine.
Gya Labs Patchouli Essential Oil
Why we like it:
- Relieves stress
- Nourishes skin
- Free of chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances
Happy customer: “This is the best patchouli oil I have ever used. It diffuses beautifully and in my perfumes, it is proving itself a true-to-nature patchouli. It not only provides a lovely basenote, but lifts the middle note and fixes it perfectly. I couldn’t be more pleased!”
Whether you pour it into a diffuser for aromatherapy or combine it with other essential oils to protect your skin, a bottle of patchouli oil will do wonders for your body and health!
This article was updated on Saturday, August 27 at 11:30 am EST. It was originally published on November 12, 2021.
