References

DMA Code

800713

CAS Number

84238-39-1

FEMA Number

2838

EINECS Number

282-493-4

Characteristics

Patchouli is grown in India and China but the bulk of the oil traded comes from Indonesia.  The production is in the hands of numerous small farmers for whom it is often a secondary crop and thus a separate source of income.  They can distill the herb and keep some small stock of oil as a form of saving.  They sell to collectors all through the year depending on their need for cash.  The dark oil is becoming rarer as the old iron drums and pipes used as distillation equipment are gradually being replaced by steel, which produce a light coloured oil.   

Product Information

Category Essential Oils and Extracts

Regional Availability Worldwide

Harvest Period Year round

Natural Status EU Natural

Organoleptic Descriptors balsam, woody, earthy, weedy, old wood

Common Applications heather, spice, cedar, chanel #5, benzoin

Appearance Pale yellow to yellow liquid

Kosher yes

Halal yes

Chemical Properties

Assay n/a

Optical Rotation -65.0 to -48.0

Refractive Index @20℃ 1.5060 - 1.5150

Specific Gravity @20℃ 0.952 - 0.977

Flash Point ℃ 87°C

Shelf Life (months) 12

Storage Recommendations Sealed containers in a cool dark place. Check quality before use.