April 5, 2025
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) is a frequently utilized herbal medicinal product in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is commonly used for treating gastrointestinal infectious disorders, including gastrointestinal cold, acute gastroenteritis, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These conditions are believed to be linked to dampness and summer heat, as per the principles of TCM. Patchouli belongs to the Labiatae family, and patchouli essential oil is considered its main effective component. Essential oils derived from plants are popular because of their positive emotional effects on calming nerves.
Patchouli essential oil is also commonly used in aromatherapy for stress relief. Stress is a significant contributing factor to the development of anxiety and depression, both of which are highly prevalent in the current world. However, initial treatment for these two disorders often results in adverse effects, such as loss of appetite, weight loss, drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, and sexual dysfunction. Therefore, the development of new psychopharmacological agents that have minimal adverse effects is urgently needed. A recent preclinical model of chronic stress that led to anxiety and depression, found that oral administration of patchouli essential oil decreased anxiety- and depression-like behaviors by improving the gut microbiome and the production of short-chain fatty acids, as well as restoring healthy serotonin levels in the brain.