Meet your new best friend. Palmarosa essential oil. Otherwise known by its rather bizarre Latin name, Cymbopogen Martinii, or more commonly, Indian Geranium, Gingergrass or Rosha. Used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, the western world has finally embraced this powerful ingredient and its myriad of uses. From skincare to anti-mosquito repellent, it’s clear that Palmarosa is a powerful ally to modern living. So, how exactly can you incorporate this soothing, supportive essential oil into your daily self-care rituals? Well, you might be surprised to know that you’re probably already using it in lots of products.
WHAT IS PALMAROSA?
Let’s clear one thing up. Palmarosa isn’t a descendent of the rose family. In fact, it’s a part of the lemongrass family. The scent, however, is soft, rosy with citrus hints. Since arriving in Europe, the oil has been used to fragrance soaps, cosmetics and perfumes.
The Palmarosa plant is tall, grassy and tufty. A perennial herb, native to India, it’s now cultivated all over the world. It especially thrives in humid, tropical conditions and is widely grown in the wetlands of India, Nepal and Vietnam.
HOW IS PALMAROSA MADE INTO AN ESSENTIAL OIL?
Palmarosa grows slowly, taking about three months to flower. As it matures, the flowers darken and redden. The crop is harvested just before the flowers turn completely red and then they’re dried out. The oil is extracted from the stem of the grass by steam distillation of the dried leaves. Distilling the leaves for 2-3 hours causes the oil to separate from the Palmarosa.
The yellowish oil contains a high concentration of the chemical compound, Geraniol. It’s highly valued for its scent, medicinal and household uses.
PALMAROSA: BENEFITS FOR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH
Increasingly, this gem of an essential oil is used in hero skincare products. That’s because it can penetrate deep within the skin cells, nourishing the epidermis, balancing moisture levels and locking moisture in. After use, skin appears rejuvenated, radiant, supple and stronger. It’s also great at balancing sebum and oil production of the skin. This means it’s a good oil to treat acne breakouts. It can even help with healing cuts and bruises.
Sensitive skin conditions including eczema, psoriasis and scar prevention can also be treated with Palmarosa. It’s not only humans that it can work wonders on either. The oil works well for dog skin disorders and horse skin fungus and dermatitis. Always consult your vet first and only use it on their advice. These benefits are mostly attributed to its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. The list goes on and on. Inflammation, digestive issues and sore feet can all be treated with this multi-purpose oil.
It doesn’t stop there. Palmarosa can also be used to support mood during emotional vulnerability. Stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, nervous exhaustion can be nurtured by this subtle, supportive and balancing oil. It’s also great for hormones, stabilising symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, bloating and hormonal imbalance. A go-to for calming and uplifting emotions and clearing muddled thoughts. Palmarosa is a bright, sunny scent, perfect for using in a reed diffuser or burning in an oil burner on a cold winter’s day.
We know that it’s great for sensitive skin. Consequently, this is considered a non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitising essential oil. Even so, as with all essential oils, there is some cautionary advice. Don’t use essential oils undiluted on the skin, instead it should be combined with a mild carrier oil. Keep out of reach of children, and if you’re pregnant or nursing, definitely consult your doctor first. You should also do a patch test to check in case of allergy.
PALMAROSA IN SCENTERED PRODUCTS
Palmarosa features in our SLEEP WELL Aromatherapy range. We love it because of its calming, balancing and nourishing properties. It works in perfect balance with the other ingredients to help you drift off into a deeply restful sleep. The sophisticated floral lavender blend harnesses the therapeutic benefits of Lavender, Chamomile, Palmarosa and Ho Wood, and balances them with Bois de Rose and Geranium. The Patchouli, Clove and Ylang Ylang heart brings a modern oriental twist.
Try our SLEEP WELL Balm, which was commended in the Best Natural Product Category at the Pure Beauty Awards. This 100% natural, essential oil-based aromatherapy balm is mess-free and won't leak or spill in your bag. Use our SLEEP WELL Balm, as part of your evening and bedtime routine.
Apply to wrists, neck and temples. Stop. Inhale. Relax.
If balms aren’t your thing, don’t stress. Our SLEEP WELL Candle also delivers the same alluring blend to relax your body and quiet your mind. Our therapeutic candles are made from a custom blend of natural waxes, sustainably sourced and non-GM, with pure essential oils for a clean burn and natural fragrance. With a burn time of 35 hours, that’s a lot of relaxation!