Apothecary
Patchouli.
Pogostemon cablin
Also known as Pucha-pat, Puchaput
Earthy, dark, and unmistakable — patchouli is the herb of deep-rooted abundance, of love that lives in the body rather than the mind. Its heavy, resinous scent grounds the practitioner after high spiritual work and draws money and attraction with the patient magnetism of the earth itself.
Correspondences
Element
Earth
Planet
Saturn
Zodiac
Taurus, Capricorn
Chakra
Root, Sacral
Parts Used
Leaves (dried and aged)
Harvest
Year-round (dried)
Origin
Asia
Moon Phases
Waning
Practice
Magical Properties
Money, love, lust, fertility, grounding, abundance
Add to money-drawing sachets and carry in a wallet to attract wealth. Use in love and lust magic — the deep earthy scent draws physical attraction. Burn as incense for grounding and to reconnect with the body after intense spiritual work.
Mundane
Mundane Uses
Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal. Used in aromatherapy for anxiety and depression. Skin-healing properties make it a popular ingredient in cosmetics.
Devotion
Deity Associations
Cernunnos, Pan, Earth goddesses
History
Folklore & History
Its magical use goes back to ancient India where it was used in burial rituals. Victorian merchants established that Indian cashmere shawls shipped to Britain were always packed with dried patchouli to repel moths — making patchouli synonymous with Eastern luxury. It became iconic in 1960s counterculture.
Safety
Safety Notes
Generally safe. High concentrations may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. May cause drowsiness.
This information is provided for educational and magical reference only. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using herbs medicinally.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Patchouli used for in witchcraft?
Patchouli is traditionally used in workings for money, love, lust, fertility, grounding, abundance. Add to money-drawing sachets and carry in a wallet to attract wealth.
What element is Patchouli associated with?
Patchouli is associated with the Earth element and the sign of Taurus, Capricorn, and resonates with the Root, Sacral chakras.
What planet rules Patchouli?
Patchouli is ruled by Saturn. In the classical planetary system, this gives the herb its characteristic energetic signature and indicates which workings it most readily amplifies and which planetary hours best suit it.
Is Patchouli safe to use?
Some care is required when working with Patchouli. Generally safe. High concentrations may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. May cause drowsiness. The information here is provided for educational and magical reference only — always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb medicinally.
In Your Practice
Track your work with Patchouli.
Record spells, rituals, and observations in your private digital grimoire.
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