palmarosa

Palmarosa, botanically Cymbopogon martinii, is a tropical perennial grass native to the Indian subcontinent. It is cultivated in warm, humid climates for its essential oil, which is steam-distilled from the leaves. The plant generally grows to about 1 to 1.5 meters and has long, aromatic blades.

Palmarosa essential oil is pale yellow to amber and features a rose-like scent with green, geranium-like undertones. The oil's major constituent is geraniol, typically 60–85%, with smaller amounts of linalool, citronellol, and other terpenoids.

In perfumery and cosmetic applications, palmarosa oil is valued as a fragrance ingredient and a component in soaps, creams, and balms. It is occasionally used as a flavoring note in foods and beverages in certain regional products. Some laboratory studies report antimicrobial and antifungal activity of the oil, but clinical evidence is limited.

Safety considerations include the need for dilution before topical use and patch testing for skin sensitivity. The oil should not be ingested in concentrated form, and its use is usually avoided in pregnancy without professional advice. Palmarosa oil is typically stored away from light in tightly sealed containers.