Also known as East Indian Geranium, Indian Rosha, Motia and Turkish Geranium, palmarosa was originally used for the adulteration of rose oil in perfumery. Related to Lemongrass, it is not a tree as the name seems to imply but instead a grass like plant. The essential oils it produces hold antiseptic, hydrating, stimulating, tonic and bactericidal qualities. Many have found it most useful in treating chronic skin conditions including acne, scares, sores, sun burn, and dermatitis. Palmarosa and be used by all skin types to improves the skins conditions and appearance. It also has been used to aid in the recovery of people suffering with an eating disorder called Anorexia along with problem associated with it but that can occur in people with out it including intestinal infections and digestive atonia. Aromatically it may be used to help reduce stress and keep one from suffering from nervous exhaustion.
Used extensively in the perfume industry even up until today. To create your own perfume, you may mix palmarosa with other essential oils such as rosewood, sandalwood, oakmoss, geranium, and other floral oils to create a very aromatic blend. The light yellow colored essential oil is itself referred to as a middle to base essential oil (note) and considered floral and sweet in scent.
Native India and Pakistan (hence the various names), it is now grown many hot and arid regions including Africa and in areas of rainforest such as Brazil and Indonesia. Once again, lemongrass is a close cousin of palmarosa, as is another grassy plant named Gingergrass. Gingergrass is frequently used either in place or to adulterate palmarosa. It is considered an inferior essential oil. Always read product labels to make sure Cybopogon martinii var. martinii is used and not C. martinii var. sofia (Gingergrass).
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