An orange-brown, viscous essential oil derived from the patchouli plant; see also patchouli leaves. This fragrance was the signature scent of the hippie generation and is used in fragrance compositions; it has a direct effect on the pituitary gland. The purported effect regarding the release of endorphinshas not yet been proven in clinical studies! The active ingredient, patchouli alcohol, activates the mTOR signaling pathway in the hippocampus, leading to a corresponding reduction in stress and depressive behavior.
In a small randomized clinical trial, a significant reduction in stress levels was demonstrated among emergency room nurses.
Animal studies have demonstrated an increase in dopamine levels in the brain.
See also Pogostemon cablin leaf extract (INCI)