Patchouli essential oil is derived from a fragrant herb that has soft oval leaves and square stems. It grows up to a height of 2-3 feet and gives an unusal odor that is typical characteristics of patchouli, especially when the leaves are rubbed. The color of the oil is changed in affect of the distillation machine. If the distillation of the oil is done is a stainless steel vessel, the color of the Patchouli essential oil is darker as compared to the color which is obtained when the oil is distilled in a darker vessel.