Palmarosa

Botanical Name: Cymbopogon martini

Botany and Origins: Palmarosa is a tufted perennial grass with numerous stiff stems. The grass grows wild in India, particularly north-east of Bombay towards the Himalayas Mountains. The Dutch introduced palmarosa to Java in the 1930s. The grass is also cultivated in the Seychelles Islands and the Comoro Islands.

Method of Extraction: Palmarosa oil is steam distilled from wild growing, fresh or dried grass.

Cultivation: Conventional

Historical and Traditional Uses: There is no record to when Palmarosa oil was first distilled in India, but bruised leaves were used to perfume bath water and provide poultices to relieve pain of neuralgia, lumbago, sciatica and rheumatic pain. The oil was traded between India and Persia and then shipped to Constantinople, where it became known to European traders as Turkish or Indian Geranium oil. It is extensively used in perfumery and for scenting soaps. In India, the oil is massaged into the joints to alleviate lumbago and rheumatism, and it is taken internally to relieve stomach disorders.

Pharmacology and Clinical Studies: Palmarosa oil has been reported to exhibit excellent antifungal and antibacterial properties. Palmarosa essential oil was found to give almost complete protection against Anopheles cullicifacies (a principal malaria carrier) for up to eleven hours. Palmarosa oil was considered comparable with synthetic repellents such as dimethyl and dibutyl phthalate.

Indications:

• Digestive System: Acts as a tonic to the digestive system and is reputed to have a beneficial effect on pathogens in the intestinal flora. It is reputed to be a digestive stimulant and is recommended for loss of appetite and a sluggish digestion.
• Nervous System: It has a calming yet uplifting effect on the emotions and may be used to alleviate stress, restlessness and anxiety.
• Skin Care: Palmarosa is extensively used in skin care. It is antiseptic, has hydrating properties, helps to balance sebum production and is reputed to stimulate cellular regeneration. It is recommended for all skin types, especially acne, dermatitis, minor skin infections and is also helpful for dry, undernourished skin conditions.

Safety: Palmarosa oil is non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitising.

Country of Origin: India

Size: 10ml, 30ml, 50ml (for 100ml and above, please contact us)