Collection: Patchouli Fragrances

Patchouli: A Beautiful and Aromatic Herb

Patchouli is a beautiful, bushy green herb from the mint family, belonging to the genus Pogostemon. It can grow up to two or three feet in height and is adorned with delicate pinkish-white flowers and aromatic leaves. The herb's excellent and powerful scent has been used in perfumery for centuries. Originally native to the tropics of Asia, Patchouli thrives in warm to tropical climates. Today, various varieties of the Pogostemon genus are cultivated in Asia, West Africa, and South America to produce the aromatic patchouli oil.

The Birth of Patchouli: From Indonesia to Coty's Chypre Scents!

Patchouli is a tropical plant cultivated in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Although the plant itself doesn't emit any fragrance, its leaves create the fabulous patchouli scent after drying and treatment. The essence obtained through distillation releases the earthy and humid scent, reflecting its Asian roots with an airy camphor freshness. For some, patchouli evokes the delicious smells of a cork of wine.

While patchouli has long been used in perfumery for its stability and binding properties, it gained prominence with the rise of chypre perfumes, notably Coty's "Cyprus" in 1917. Modern chypre perfumes (20th-century chypres) often include bergamot, jasmine, oakmoss, rose, labdanum, and, of course, patchouli!

From Patchouli of the Hippie Years to Modern Fragrances

For many, patchouli symbolizes the 70s "peace and love" era, adopted by hippies in search of exotic scents. Its massive use eventually led to weariness among some lovers of this delicate scent. The 1970 perfume "Patchouli" by the Reminiscence brand became iconic during this love affair between supporters of peace and patchouli.

In later years, patchouli found its place in new accords, complementing various notes harmoniously. It pairs well with oriental, woody, and leathery notes. The famous fragrance "Angel" by Thierry Mugler in 1993 brought patchouli back into the spotlight with its 30% pure patchouli essence. Since then, patchouli has become a prominent note in many great perfumes, both for women and men.

Contrary to the notion that patchouli is exclusively for feminine fragrances, its powerful and versatile scent suits both women and men. Numerous male perfumes, such as "Black XS" by Paco Rabanne, "Polo Black" by Ralph Lauren, and "Midnight" by Daniel Hechter, feature patchouli notes dominating citrus and sandalwood.