Magical Properties, General
What Are The Magical Properties Of Patchouli?
By Mark Piatt
Updated on August 25, 2023
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The magical properties of patchouli carry a wealth of symbolic meanings that have been utilized in many different traditions and contexts. With its deep and earthy scent, patchouli is a powerful herb in magickal contexts.
As a general rule, these are 5 main magickal properties that patchouli is often associated with:
1. Love and attraction spells
2. Money and prosperity spells
3. Protective rituals
4. Divination
5. Grounding and Balancing
But these are not the only magickal properties associated with patchouli.
Some of the other important magickal properties and rituals associated with patchouli:
- Transformation
- Healing
- Spiritual connection
- Banishing and releasing
- Intuition
- Insight
- Dreamwork
- Purification
- Sensual energy
- Fertility
DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. Occult properties of herbs and essential oils are provided for historical interest only. For possible treatments of physical or mental diseases, please seek a trained and licensed health professional. Enchanted Aromatics is not responsible for any adverse side effects resulting from the use of any suggestions, products, preparations, or procedures mentioned or from the following historical uses of herbs and essential oils.
Magickal Correspondence For Patchouli
- Patchouli is often associated with masculine energy. The reason is patchouli is a robust, assertive, dominant, and penetrating aroma, often associated with qualities considered “masculine”.
- The vibration of patchouli is considered part of the earth element. The energetic properties of patchouli are linked to being grounded, stable, and strong, all aligned with the earth element.
- Patchouli is most often associated with the planet Saturn. Like patchouli, Saturn is considered structured and disciplined. Saturn is also considered a symbol of time, maturity, and patience. Patchouli has these same qualities. The essential oil especially, as it improves and deepens with time.
- The astrological sign of patchouli is often linked to Scorpio since Scorpio is known for its deep, intense, and transformational nature. Like patchouli, Scorpio is most associated with sensuality, sexuality, and passion.
- Patchouli is most associated with the following deities: Pan (Greek) – which Aligns with Pan’s playful and primal energy, Osiris (Egyptian) – Which represents growth and transformation, Lakshmi (Hindu) – Gives blessings for abundance and well-being, Venus or Aphrodite (Roman/Greek) – Goddess of love, beauty, and sensuality, Demeter (Greek), has earthy and nurturing energies, Green Man (Celtic) – Associates with nature, rebirth, and earth.
- Chakras associated with patchouli: Root Chakra, with its deeply grounding properties, patchouli is naturally associated with the Root Chakra. It can help in stabilizing one’s foundation, enhancing feelings of safety, security, and connectedness to the physical world. Patchouli also has connections with the Sacral Chakra.
What is patchouli?
Patchouli is a member of the mint family. Of the 40 species, Pogostemon cablin is the one most often used in the perfume industry and for magickal purposes.
For the remainder of this article, Pogostemon cablin is the species we will be referring to when talking about patchouli.
The plant is a bushy perennial herb that can reach of height of 2.5 feet. The plant mostly grows in warm to tropical climates.
The flowers are very fragrant and blossom in late autumn, and are used in the perfume industry.
With its distinctive earthy fragrance, practitioners of magick typically use either the dried leaves or the essential oil of the patchouli plant.
The essential oil of patchouli is a bit unusual. Most essential oils degrade as soon as they are distilled because of oxidation and have a typical shelf life of between 2-5 years.
Patchouli essential oil on the other hand improves over time. It becomes sweeter and more balsamic and will darken in color.
The consensus is it reaches its best aroma between 2-6 years.
6 Groups that use the magickal properties of patchouli in their practices
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Wicca and Neopaganism
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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
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Hinduism
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Buddhism
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African Traditional Religions
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Modern Spiritual Practices
Patchouli’s association with occult practices likely comes from its long history of use in various traditional medicinal and spiritual contexts.
In some pagan and Wiccan practices, patchouli might be used in spells or rituals for purposes like attracting love or money, or for grounding and balancing
The scent of patchouli is thought by some to enhance relaxation and connect one with their spiritual self.
There are many ways you can incorporate patchouli into your life using magick including:
- Essential oil
- Dried leaves
- Teas
- Incense
- Patchouli powder
- Candles
- Balms and salves
- Lotions
- Soaps, shampoos, and body washes
- Perfumes and colognes
- Massage oils
- Spell bags and satchels
- Simmer pot
- Infusions
When following instructions for a ritual or a spell, If it does not feel right to you, change it. There is no magickal law that says you cannot change your spell to fit YOUR needs.
Magick is empowering!
The 3 most important aspects of any magick are:
- Intent
- Emotions
- Confidence
Through your desire, you will drive your power into your magick.
On a personal note, I believe everyone has a right to protect themselves.
In those types of cases, I believe you have the right to use magick to protect yourself using binding spells, hexes, curses, and any other means that may be appropriate.
But in my examples, I do not provide these types of spells.
There are many resources I have used to learn about magick and to compile these articles.
I particularly enjoy the following two books about herbal magic:
- Plant Magic for the Beginner Witch: An Herbalist’s Guide to Heal, Protect, and Manifest
- Blackthorn’s Botanical Magic
Both books discuss patchouli. Although the first book only discusses patchouli briefly, it is an excellent book for learning herbal spells.
The second book should be in every library of anyone interested in plant magick. This book talks in detail about the many plants you may use in your magickal journey, including patchouli.
For learning basic spellcraft, I would recommend the following book:
This is a newer book published in 2022, but it is well-written and extensive.
This 344-page tome of a book written by 4 witches has everything you may want to know about getting started in spell craft and includes the techniques you need to manifest your will in the world.
I have personally learned a great deal from this one particular book.
With that out of the way, let us look at how you can use oranges in your everyday magick.
Can the magical properties of patchouli be used for love and attraction spells and rituals?
Historically, patchouli has been viewed as an aphrodisiac in various cultures. With its deep and sensual aroma, in some practices, patchouli is used in love spells to attract a partner or enhance sensuality.
Scents play a significant role in human attraction and intimacy. Fragrances that evoke a strong sensory response, as patchouli often does, can be perceived as aphrodisiacs.
In various cultures, patchouli has been used for centuries as a scent to attract lovers.
Patchouli essential oil has been used to anoint the body or be added to personal belongings as a means of drawing attention or affection.
For a look at 21 herbs that can be used in love rituals, check out my article “Top 21 Herbs Used For Love Magic and Rituals“.
9 examples of how you can use patchouli in rituals related to love, passion, and attraction.
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Anointing Oils: One can make a love anointing oil by blending patchouli essential oil with a carrier oil (like jojoba or almond oil). This blend can be used to anoint oneself, love talismans, or candles for love spells.
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Sachets: Dried patchouli leaves can be added to love sachets or mojo bags, which are then carried on one’s person to attract love or enhance passion.
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Bath Rituals: Adding a few drops of patchouli essential oil or a sachet of its leaves to a ritual bath can help set the intention for attraction or deepening intimacy. This can be particularly effective when combined with other love-associating herbs like rose petals or jasmine flowers.
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Incense: Burning patchouli as an incense during love spells or rituals can help to invoke its energies of attraction and passion. It can also be blended with other resins or herbs, like rose or lavender, for a multi-layered aromatic experience.
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Candle Magick: Dressing candles with patchouli oil and then burning them with intent can be a powerful way to draw in love or amplify romantic feelings. You can also carve symbols or names into the candle to further personalize your intentions.
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Attraction Sprays: Combine patchouli essential oil with water (and perhaps a little alcohol or witch hazel as a preservative) in a spray bottle. Spritzing this around your bedroom or on your bed linens can invoke feelings of sensuality.
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Meditation: Holding patchouli leaves or meditating with the scent of patchouli oil can aid in visualizing your love intentions, helping to draw those desires into your life.
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Aphrodisiac: Historically, patchouli has been regarded as an aphrodisiac. While its sensual scent can set the mood, it can also be used symbolically in rituals meant to enhance or spark sexual desire.
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Altar Offerings: In rituals dedicated to deities of love, passion, or fertility, patchouli can be offered on the altar as a symbol of devotion and desire.
3 detailed examples of how you can use patchouli in rituals related to love, passion, and attraction.
1. Patchouli Love Sachet
Materials:
A small bag or pouch, dried patchouli leaves, rose petals, lavender buds, a pink or red ribbon, and a small piece of rose quartz.
Procedure:
- Mix the dried patchouli leaves with rose petals and lavender buds.
- Place the mixture into the pouch, along with the rose quartz.
- Seal the sachet with the ribbon.
- As you tie the ribbon, focus on your intention for love or attraction.
- Carry the sachet with you, place it under your pillow, or keep it in a personal space to draw love towards you.
2. Patchouli Anointed Love Candle Ritual
Materials:
A pink or red candle, patchouli essential oil, a carving tool, and matches or a lighter.
Procedure:
- Carve your name and the name of a potential or current lover (or symbols representing love) into the candle.
- Anoint the candle with the patchouli essential oil, moving in a downward motion from the wick to the base to draw love towards you.
- As you anoint the candle, focus on your intent.
- Light the candle and visualize the flame attracting love and warmth into your life.
- Allow the candle to burn down safely or extinguish it and relight it over multiple sessions.
3. Patchouli Bath Ritual
Materials:
A bathtub, patchouli essential oil, Epsom salts or sea salt, rose petals, and a few drops of ylang-ylang or jasmine essential oil (optional).
Procedure:
- Begin by filling your bathtub with warm water.
- Add a handful of Epsom salts or sea salt, a few drops of patchouli essential oil, and optionally, ylang-ylang or jasmine oil.
- Scatter rose petals on the water’s surface.
- As you step into the bath, visualize yourself being enveloped in love and magnetic attraction.
- Relax in the bath, letting the properties of patchouli and the other ingredients imbue you with their energies.
- Once done, drain the tub and envision any doubts or barriers to love flowing away with the water.
Remember, the personal connection and intent with which you use patchouli in love and attraction spells are crucial.
Here are some of the items you can purchase for your patchouli love spells.
Pretty in Pink 8 oz. Soy Candle: Includes Honeysuckle, Evening Primrose, Cherry Bark, Sunflower, Ylang Ylang, Cherry Bark, Sunflower, Ylang Ylang, and an array of other botanical ingredients added into the candle.
Unscented Pink Votive Candle: Meticulously handmade with love and passion. These have a 10-hour burn time and are easy to carve messages into.
Rose Quartz – Natural rose quartz, .45 pounds, 1 inch in size.
Small cotton double drawstring pouch – 100 count. Made from natural unbleached cotton muslin.
To learn more about how you can use patchouli in your love magick rituals, please check out my article “How To Use Patchouli In Love Spells And Rituals?“.
Can the magical properties of patchouli be used for money and prosperity spells and rituals?
Patchouli is often associated with abundance and wealth. Some spellcasters use the herb in spells to attract money or prosperity, whether by anointing candles with patchouli oil, carrying a sachet with dried leaves, or incorporating it into ritual baths.
Patchouli became associated with wealth because of its use as a moth repellent in the East.
Valuable textiles and garments, especially those destined for trade or sale, were layered with patchouli leaves to prevent damage.
Over time, this scent became synonymous with genuine, high-quality fabrics. As such, the very presence of the patchouli scent began to suggest luxury and abundance.
In certain folk magic traditions, patchouli was considered to be a “drawing” herb, meaning it could draw things to you, including money, love, or other desires.
Given its grounding, in Earth-based energy, it was especially linked to drawing material wealth and prosperity.
As spiritual practices evolve and blend across cultures, patchouli has been adopted into many modern rituals and spells for attracting money and prosperity.
Here are 3 examples of how patchouli might be used in money and prosperity spells.
1. Patchouli Money Sachet
Materials:
A green or gold pouch, dried patchouli leaves, a small coin or piece of pyrite, and a piece of green aventurine or citrine.
Procedure:
- Fill the pouch with dried patchouli leaves, add the coin or pyrite, and the chosen crystal.
- Seal the sachet.
- Hold it in your hands and focus on your intention of attracting wealth and prosperity.
- Carry this sachet with you, especially when dealing with financial matters, or place it in the wealth corner of your home (typically the back-left corner when standing at the entrance, looking in, based on Feng Shui principles).
2. Patchouli Money Drawing Candle Spell
Materials:
A green candle, patchouli essential oil, and a carving tool.
Procedure:
- Carve symbols of prosperity, such as the dollar sign, or your personal prosperity sigil into the candle.
- Anoint the candle with patchouli oil, drawing the oil towards you (to draw money towards you).
- As you light the candle, visualize money flowing into your life.
- Let the candle burn safely or repeat the ritual over several days.
3. Patchouli Prosperity Incense
Materials:
Dried patchouli leaves, benzoin resin, and a charcoal disc for burning.
Procedure:
- Mix the patchouli and benzoin.
- Light the charcoal disc in a safe incense burner and, once it’s hot, place the patchouli-benzoin mix on it.
- As it smokes, visualize the incense drawing wealth and abundance to you.
Here are some of the items you can purchase for your patchouli money and prosperity spells.
Pyrite – 16 ounces of natural, rough pyrite. Pieces are about 1 inch in size.
Green Aventurine – Raw green aventurine stones, 32 ounces.
Citrine – Rough yellow citrine stones, quantity – 5.
Green Candle – Large green candle for money spells.
Benzoin Resin – Known to have relaxant and sedative properties.
Gum benzoin is a major component of the type of church incense used in Catholic ceremonies and some other Orthodox Christian societies.
Can the magical properties of patchouli be used in protective rituals?
Patchouli is often associated with protection in various magickal and spiritual traditions. Just as its scent can repel insects, many people believe that the strong, distinctive scent of patchouli acts as a deterrent against negative energies or entities.
Patchouli is often associated with the root chakra, the energy center linked to grounding, stability, and one’s foundational sense of security.
By fortifying or balancing the root chakra, patchouli can enhance an individual’s sense of protection and connection to the Earth.
In various cultures and magickal traditions, patchouli has been incorporated into protective amulets, sachets, and potions.
These practices, passed down through generations, have solidified patchouli’s reputation as a protective herb.
Its consistent presence in protective work reinforces patchouli’s association with defense and security.
3 examples of how you can use patchouli in magickal protection rituals.
1. Patchouli Protection Amulet
Materials:
A small pouch or locket, dried patchouli leaves, a small piece of black tourmaline or obsidian, and a protective symbol or sigil.
Procedure:
- Draw or inscribe your chosen protective symbol or sigil on a piece of paper, small enough to fit inside the pouch or locket.
- Place the dried patchouli leaves and the protective stone inside the pouch.
- Add the inscribed symbol or sigil.
- Seal the pouch or locket, holding it in your hands, and visualize a protective shield forming around you. Carry this amulet with you for protection.
2. Patchouli Protection Anointing Oil
Materials:
Patchouli essential oil, a carrier oil (like almond or jojoba), a small vial or bottle, and a protective herb or resin such as dragon’s blood or frankincense.
Procedure:
- Blend a few drops of patchouli essential oil with the carrier oil in the vial.
- Add a pinch of the protective herb or resin to the mixture.
- Seal the bottle and shake it gently to mix the ingredients.
- When you need protection, anoint your pulse points, doorway entrances, or any object you want to protect with the oil. As you do so, imagine a barrier forming, blocking negative influences.
3. Patchouli Smoke Cleansing Ritual
Materials:
Dried patchouli leaves, a fireproof container or cauldron, a charcoal disc, and a feather or fan.
Procedure:
- Light the charcoal disc in the fireproof container and allow it to become hot.
- Place a pinch of dried patchouli leaves onto the charcoal, letting it produce smoke.
- Using the feather or fan, guide the patchouli smoke around your space, person, or object you wish to protect. As you do this, visualize the smoke forming a shield, purifying and guarding against negativity.
- Once done, ensure the charcoal and patchouli have stopped burning, and the smoke has been safely cleared.
Here are some of the items you can purchase for your patchouli protection spells.
Black Tourmaline – Hand-sorted and high quality – 1/2 pound small pieces.
Obsidian – Rough, raw stones, 1/2 pound. Pieces are about 1 inch in size.
Glass Vials and Bottles – 45 Pcs Mini Glass Bottles of various sizes with cork tops. If you plan on performing rituals and spells, you need a nice set like this.
Cauldron – When performing rituals and magic, an iron cauldron is a must. Here are a variety of sizes and styles.
Straw Hand Fan – Hand-made fan made from straw.
Dried Patchouli leaves – 30 grams, Pogostemon cablin,
If you are interesting in learning more about herbs and essential oils that can be used in protection rituals, check out our article “16 Essential Oils For Protection“.
Can the magical properties of patchouli be used for divination?
Patchouli’s deep and grounding properties make it a valuable ally in divination practices. Its use can help create a conducive environment, heighten intuitive abilities, and anchor the practitioner.
Patchouli serves as a facilitator, creating an atmosphere conducive to divination and enhancing the sacredness of the ritual.
the effectiveness of these practices relies on the practitioner’s belief, intention, and energy.
3 examples of how you can use patchouli in magickal divination rituals.
1. Anointing Divination Tools
- Patchouli oil can be used to anoint divination tools like tarot cards, pendulums, runes, or crystal balls.
- This helps consecrate the tools and enhances their ability to channel spiritual messages.
- Before each divination session, place a drop of patchouli oil on your fingertips and lightly touch the tool, setting the intention to open the channels of intuition and insight.
2. Smudging with Patchouli
- Burn dried patchouli leaves or incense before a divination session.
- The smoke can cleanse the space, drive away distracting energies, and invite spiritual guidance.
- Allow the smoke to waft over your divination tools and the space where you’ll be working.
3. Altar Space
- Create a dedicated divination altar and use patchouli oil to anoint candles or as an offering.
- Having a physical space imbued with the energy of patchouli can help you focus and tune in more effectively when performing divinatory practices.
The following example shows how you can use patchouli when creating a divination circle.
1. Patchouli Candle Grounding Ritual
Materials:
Patchouli incense or dried patchouli leaves, a white candle, divination tool.
Procedure:
- Choose a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed.
- Light the patchouli incense or burn the dried patchouli leaves.
- As the smoke rises, visualize it creating a protective barrier around your space.
- Light the white candle, focusing on its flame as a beacon to guide your divinatory insights.
- Position your divination tool within the circle, letting it be cleansed and charged by the patchouli smoke.
- Perform your divination practice, and when you’re finished, thank the energies for their guidance.
- Extinguish the candle and clear the space.
Here is a list of some of the more popular divination tools you can use in your practice.
- Tarot Cards
- Runes
- Pendulum
- Crystal Ball (Scrying)
- Scrying Mirrors
- Ogham Staves
- Tea Leaves
- Bones and Curios
- Dice
- Stones or Gems
Some practitioners believe that the scent of patchouli can stimulate and open up the third eye chakra, which is associated with intuition, foresight, and psychic abilities.
By aligning or activating this chakra, one’s divinatory capabilities can be enhanced.
Divination can make one vulnerable to various energies and forces.
Patchouli’s protective properties ensure that while one’s defenses are lowered to receive messages, they remain shielded from any negative or harmful energies.
Can the magical properties of patchouli be used for grounding and balancing rituals?
Patchouli’s earthy qualities make it a popular choice for grounding exercises and rituals. You can use patchouli during meditation or energy work to help connect with the earth element and find spiritual balance.
Patchouli, with its earthy scent and grounding properties, has been a beloved component in various spiritual and wellness traditions for its grounding and balancing attributes.
Here are some reasons why patchouli is considered beneficial for grounding and balancing:
8 examples of why patchouli is considered beneficial for grounding and balancing.
1. Earthy Scent
- Patchouli’s aroma is rich, deep, and reminiscent of the damp soil.
- This very nature connects individuals to the Earth, helping them feel anchored and present.
2. Root Chakra Connection
- In many spiritual traditions, patchouli is associated with the root chakra, which is the energy center connected to our sense of stability, security, and grounding.
- By aligning or balancing this chakra, patchouli aids in strengthening our foundational sense of security and connectedness.
3. Counteracting Disconnection
- In our modern world, it’s easy to feel detached from nature and our surroundings due to technology and urbanization.
- Patchouli, with its intrinsic earthiness, acts as a bridge, helping individuals reconnect with nature and the primal essence of the Earth.
4. Physical Properties
- Patchouli has been used in traditional medicine to help with various ailments, including anxiety and restlessness.
- Its calming properties can help bring balance to the body, both emotionally and physically.
5. Historical and Cultural Associations
- Historically, patchouli has been utilized in rituals and ceremonies aimed at grounding or consecrating a space.
- Its continued use across cultures and generations solidifies its reputation as a grounding agent.
6. Balancing Dual Energies
- Patchouli is believed to balance both masculine and feminine energies, helping to harmonize any imbalances within an individual or space.
- This dual energy balance can lead to a sense of completeness and equilibrium.
7. Protection
- Grounding often involves creating a protective barrier against external influences.
- Given patchouli’s protective qualities, it further emphasizes and enhances the grounding process, ensuring that individuals are not only anchored but also shielded.
8. Meditative Aid
- The aroma of patchouli can help deepen meditation practices, facilitating a stronger connection to the present moment.
- This present-moment awareness is at the heart of grounding practices.
The following example shows how you can use patchouli in a candle grounding ritual.
1. Patchouli Candle Grounding Ritual
Materials:
A white or brown candle, patchouli essential oil, and a quiet, peaceful space.
Procedure:
- Carve any symbols or words related to grounding onto the candle, such as “grounding,” “balance,” or “stability.”
- Anoint the candle with patchouli essential oil, starting from the middle and moving outwards to the top and bottom.
- Light the candle and sit in a meditative position.
- Focus on the flame and visualize its energy spreading through your body, rooting you to the Earth.
- As you meditate, inhale the patchouli-infused aroma from the candle. Visualize its energy forming a connection between you and the Earth, grounding and balancing your spirit.
- When finished, safely extinguish the candle.
Using aids like patchouli can help you channel and focus that energy more effectively, but your intuition and connection to the energies you work with are most crucial.
Always approach such practices with respect.
Are you interested in getting started in magick or witchcraft but don’t know what to purchase?
The following kit has 112 supplies and tools to get you started or can even be used by the more advanced practitioner:
What does patchouli smell like?
Patchouli is an earthy, woody, musky scent that’s tremendously rich and deep.
Over time, as patchouli oil ages, it can develop a smoother, richer scent.
Additionally, the aroma of patchouli can be quite polarizing.
Many people adore its deep, resonant qualities and find it grounding or even sensual.
But on the other end of the spectrum, others might find it overpowering or associate it with certain periods or subcultures, such as the hippie movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
Conclusion
Patchouli is a potent herb revered in various spiritual and magical traditions for its multifaceted properties.
Its deep, earthy aroma is believed to ground and balance energies, making it invaluable in meditation and spiritual practices.
Historically associated with love, attraction, and prosperity spells, patchouli also serves as a protective shield against negative forces.
Its connection with the element of Earth reinforces its qualities of abundance, stability, and physical well-being.
When integrated into rituals, this versatile herb enhances the practitioner’s intentions, solidifying its reputation as a staple in magical workings and spiritual ceremonies.
If you are interested in learning about some general magickal properties of other essential oils and herbs, check out my article “15 Magical Properties of Essential Oils“.
If you know of other magical properties of patchouli or different ways in which you use patchouli on your spiritual journey, I would love to hear from you so I may incorporate what you share in this article.
