Palmarosa

Palmarosa- ORGANIC

Botanical binomial: Cymbopogon martini

Family: Germineae

Other names: Anthropogon martini, Wats var. martini, East Indian geranium

Country of Origin: Nepal

Part of plant used in production: Fresh or dried grass

Methods of production: Steam distillation

Description:

Palmarosa is a wild growing plant related to lemongrass. It has fragrant leaves, long slender stems and terminal flowering tops. It originates from India but is now cultivated in various other countries. .

Characteristics:

A pale yellow or olive coloured essential oil that has a sweet, floral, slightly dry fragrance with an herbaceous undertone and a hint of rose.

Properties:

Antiseptic, bactericidal, cytophylactic, febrifuge, hydrating, tonic to the digestive system.

Constituents:

Geraniol (72-86%), linalool (2-4%), limonene (trace-0.5%), geranyl acetate (5-11%), farnesol (0.3-1.5%).

Uses:

Palmarosa is used widely in perfumery and soap making for rose- and geranium-like scents. It has a calming and uplifting effect on the emotions as well as a hydrating effect on the skin. Palmarosa is used to stimulate cellular regeneration, helping decrease acne, scars, dermatitis, and wrinkles.

Blends well with:

Citronella, geranium, jasmine, lavender, lime, neroli, orange, petitgrain, rose, sandalwood, ylang-ylang.

Interesting Facts:

Traditionally, Palmarosa has been used to treat anorexia, nervous exhaustion, stress, and for normalizing intestinal flora. It is often used to adulterate expensive rose oils.

Safety:

Non-toxic, non-irritant. May be sensitizing to some individuals. Dilutions of 8% are recommended for topical use.