Palmarosa

A wild growing grass with long slender leaves and terminal flowering tops. It has a spreading habit, flourishing in the tropics.

Common Name:

Palmarosa

Botanical Name:

Cymbopogon martinii

Family:

Graminae

Location:

United States, Africa, Brazil, Comores, India, Indonesia, Pakistan.

Extraction:

Steam distillation

Parts Used:

Leaves

Color and Odor:

The essential oil is clear with a hint of yellow. It has a fresh sweet rosy aroma.

Background:

Known locally in India as "rosha", two varieties are cultivated: motia and sofia. The odor of palmarosa resembles rose and geranium essential oils, and is used as a cheaper substitute for scenting soap as well as flavoring tobacco. Formerly, palmarosa oil was shipped to Bulgaria via Constantinople and used to adulterate rose oil, which was produced there.

Properties:

Tonic, Stimulant, antiseptic, cytophylactic, antirheumatic, antidepressant.

Planet:

Element:

Direction:

Magical Influences:

Uses:

Muscular System—Useful for stiff muscles.
Skin—Promotes sebum production for dry skin; palmarosa is also good for wrinkles. Encourages skin renewal by aiding cellular regeneration. Palmarosa is an antiseptic that is beneficial for skin infections, including acne.
Emotions—Palmarosa's refreshing and compelling scent calms agitation and clarifies the mind. It lifts depression and helps with listlessness.

Blends:

MUSCULAR	SKIN	EMOTION
Palmarosa 7	Palmarosa 4	Palmarosa 5
Rosemary 3	Lavender 2	Lemon 4
Coriander 2	Frankincense 2	Geranium 2

Bibliography: