Patchouli oil is produced by steam distillation of the dried leaves of Pogostemon Cablin.
The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia, and is now extensively cultivated in China, Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Mauritius, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, as well as West Africa.
Indonesia is the world’s largest producer of patchouli, accounting for over 80% of the global market. Patchouli is a perennial species that thrives in warm tropical climates. Current annual production volumes are around 1,000-1,200MT with market demand calculated to be around the same.
Over recent years there has been a shift in regional supplies of patchouli between the different islands of Indonesia. Historically we have associated Java and Sumatra with our patchouli but today Sulawesi represents around 80% of total raw material available. To understand more as to why and how this can affect qualities please read our Elementary Essential Oils report.
Ultra with PT Van Aroma as our production partner are the world's largest exporter and producer of Indonesian Patchouli Oil.
Available grades include 'Dark', 'Light' (iron free) and 'M.D.' (molecular distilled) with P.A. (patchouli alcohol) content ranging from 29PA - 34PA.
Read our latest report on Indonesia presented in October 2015 at the IFEAT conference in Sri Lanka, titled 'Indonesia - Current & Future Market Dynamics'
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Patchouli oil (Pogostemon cablin) from Indonesia dominates the global market, with the country supplying the majority of world demand, particularly from regions such as Sulawesi and Sumatra. Supply conditions are often variable, influenced by smallholder farming structures, weather patterns, and cycles of overproduction followed by reduced planting. Seasonal fluctuations and inconsistent farming practices can lead to periodic shortages and price volatility.
Global demand remains strong, especially from the fragrance industry, where patchouli is a key base note in perfumes, as well as in cosmetics and aromatherapy. Its long-lasting, earthy aroma ensures continued importance in both traditional and modern formulations. Quality consistency remains a challenge, with variations in oil composition due to differing distillation methods, fermentation practices, and storage conditions. Buyers increasingly require standardised quality, higher patchoulol content, and improved traceability from Indonesian producers.
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