Palmarosa/Indian geranium/Rosha (Cymbopogon martinii)

This perennial grass is native to South-East Asia, especially India, and it is cultivated for its oil. The essential oil of this plant, which contains the active compound geraniol, is valued for its scent and for a number of traditional medicinal and household uses. Palmarosa oil is extracted from the dried grass harvested before it flowers by steam distillation. In traditional oriental medicine, palmarosa oil is cool and moist in energy. Like both rose and geranium, palmarosa clears heat and strengthens yin-energy (the body’s calming, moistening functions). Its essential oil smells sweet and floral with a lemony-fresh green scent and a hints of rose. Palmarosa oil may be beneficial for candida, the cardiovascular system, circulation, digestion, infection, nervous system disorders and rashes. It is valuable for all types of skin problems, as it is known to stimulate new cell growth. Palmarosa’s most common application is in the treatment of skin challenges as well as in general skin care.  It is an uplifting oil, can help relax tight muscles and lessens aches and pains. When used palmarosa can help stimulate the appetite and may be of benefit to those with anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders.

It is often used as an ingredient of soaps, perfumes and cosmetics, and is also used in the flavoring of tobacco.