Have you ever heard of palmarosa? I hadn't either until recently. But this wild grass from Southeast Asia has been known for thousands of years and is still used today, from skin care to mosquito repellent. Not least because of its distinctive scent, which is strongly reminiscent of roses or geraniums, the plant is particularly popular in the cosmetics and perfume industry today. Due to its numerous properties, it is considered one of the most effective oils of all.
Palmarosa has a fresh, slightly sweet and flowery scent reminiscent of roses. Although the name palmarosa suggests a rose tree or a rose plant, this essential oil actually comes from a grass that is dried and then steam-distilled. With a grass that can grow up to three meters high and a bright, luminous aroma, it is no wonder that the plant needs a lot of sun to grow. The essential oil of palmarosa contains a high proportion of geraniol, one of the most important aroma components of essential rose oil. Palmarosa is often used in cosmetics and skin care products.
All people who use the dōTERRA loyalty program and place their order via at least 125 PV before the 15th of the respective month can look forward to this very special oil this month. You will receive 5ml of Palmarosa essential oil free with your order. I myself had never had Palmarosa before and can tell you that you can look forward to an incredible scent.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll show you some of our favorite ways to incorporate palmarosa essential oil into your daily routine. We'll explore its rich history, delve into the science behind its benefits, and provide practical DIY tips and recipes to help you get the most out of this incredible oil. Whether you are an experienced essential oil enthusiast or a curious beginner, there is something for everyone here. Let's dive into the secrets of palmarosa essential oil.
A brief history of Palmarosa
Palmarosa, also known as Cymbopogon martinii, has been valued throughout history not only for its fragrance, but also in everyday life for desserts, drinks, light and delicate dishes. The plant is often also included in Indian curries or West African dishes.
The ancient Egyptians used this oil as a kind of incense in their temples. But Palmerosa has also been a popular medicinal plant in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries, used to combat various illnesses. This plant is also very effective as an insect repellent. In India, for example, a little palmarosa was often added to wheat and bean stores to protect the harvest from infestation.
The extraction process
Palmarosa grows very slowly and takes about three months to flower. When it matures, the flowers darken and turn red. The grass is harvested just before the flowers are completely red. The palmarosa oil is then obtained by steam distillation from the stalk of the grass, which can grow up to 3 meters high. Around 1.04 kg of plant material is needed to obtain 5 ml of oil.
The high content of geraniol (over 80%) is particularly noteworthy, as it is also one of the primary chemical components of expensive rose oil.
Rose or grass?
Although the oil is very reminiscent of the rose family in terms of its smell and name, it is not related to it. Palmarosa belongs to the same grass family as lemongrass and citronella and is native to Southeast Asia. The perennial herb grows particularly well in humid, tropical conditions, which is why dōTERRA sources the plants from the wetlands of Nepal.
A co-impact project in Nepal
DōTERRA sources palmarosa from Nepal. The oil is not only of great value for physical and emotional applications, it is also an oil that enriches the people of Nepal and supports the country's economy, which is in a great and often underestimated state of need. Creating jobs, stimulating a new agricultural culture, optimizing cultivation, enables concrete help for some regions of Nepal.
With the help of co-impact sourcing, one of the cornerstones of dōTERRA, dōTERRA sources palmarosa oil from Nepal, which enables many people to have a better life. So when you chew dōTERRA, you're not only doing something good for yourself, but you're also supporting the farmers on the other side of the bottle.
DōTERRA always sources the raw materials for the individual oils in areas where the plants grow naturally. This is the only way to build up the strongest possible protection against their natural enemies, which benefits us through the oil.
DōTERRA sources palmarosa from Nepal for two reasons. Firstly, the grass grows very well when the climate is humid and rainy. The eastern part of Nepal, or the southeastern part of Nepal, where there is a lot of monsoon rain and high temperatures, is therefore a very good area for growing palmarosa. Secondly, in this particular corner of the country, there are farmers who have no income other than growing crops on the terraces along the mountains. When dōTERRA decided to support the cultivation of palmarosa in this area and began distilling it, the farmers received an additional income for their families. In addition, the women were also brought on board, so that today about 400 households are involved in the cultivation, of which around 80% of the workers are women.
Positive effects on many body systems
The fascinating thing about essential oils is that they not only have a specific effect on the body, but also have a positive effect on the entire body system when applied or ingested.
In the case of palmarosa, the oil can support you in the following ways:
Skin
The oil moisturizes and balances the skin. It stimulates cell regeneration, regulates sebum production, keeps the skin soft and elastic, and can reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. These fantastic properties make palmarosa a popular oil in skin care.
It can also help to reduce wrinkles and keep skin looking fresh. In facial steam baths, it can unclog pores and tighten tired, sagging skin.
Healthy inflammatory responses
Palmarosa has properties that can help to reduce inflammatory responses in the body.
Relaxation
The pleasant scent can be soothing and help you to reduce stress and improve your mood. In addition, its calming properties can also help to relieve anxiety.
Immune system
The oil can support the immune system. The grass was used in ancient times to reduce fever and prevent infections.
Digestive system
This mild tonic can stimulate digestion and appetite if it is lacking. To aid digestion, gentle abdominal massages with this oil are recommended.
Insect repellent
Palmarosa is often used as an insect repellent due to its intense scent, keeping annoying insects at bay.
Other benefits
Supports hormones
Supports the reproductive organs
Detox & protection for organs
Emotional benefits – The oil for serene composure
While lemongrass can be used as a light saber that draws a golden ray of light into your life, palmarosa brings a pink ray, a ray of love, into your life. Palmarosa is an oil for warriors of love. It heals the scars of hurt when you have been betrayed but refuse to give up on love. Palmarosa promotes forgiveness and allows the heart to love again.
Integrity - Respect - Return to Love
This is a beautiful oil to open your heart (similar to the rose).
Apply this oil to your heart area to allow love and forgiveness into your life.
Diffuse palmarosa to create an inviting atmosphere.
Apply the oil to the pulse points to create a sense of calm and serenity in situations of stress and tension.
Smell the bottle to get in the mood.
It has a calming and uplifting effect. Palmarosa is a tonic for the heart and mind. The oil calms the mind and helps to balance emotions.
When emotions are running high, palmarosa brings a sense of security and peace.
Palmarosa oil helps you to release inner tension and helps you to relax. It helps to calm your soul and can reduce confusion and anxiety. The latter is particularly helpful for young children.
Negative emotions: insecurity, possessive, jealous, insecure, stressed, tense, angry, complaining, dark, hateful and selfish.
Positive emotions: flexible heart, freedom of expression, potential, security, trust, true love of neighbor, kindness, spreading love, wisdom, security, belonging and forgiveness
Aromatherapy and emotional well-being
The fresh, floral aroma of palmarosa has several positive properties. It is often used to create a calming and grounding environment, perfect for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. At the same time, the oil has an energizing effect and lifts the mood. The oil has a strong balancing effect, so it may be good to use it on one day to calm you down and on another day to fight fatigue.
Diffuser blends
Wild flowers
2 drops of palmarosa
2 drops of wild orange
1 drop of lavender
Happy hormones
2 drops of palmarosa
2 drops of ylang ylang
1 drop of clary sage
Pure vibes
2 drops of palmarosa
2 drops of bergamot
1 drop of frankincense
DIY recipes
Bath additive
A soothing bath with palmarosa is ideal for relaxing after a hard day. Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients
1 cup Epsom salt
2-5 drops of palmarosa oil
Instructions
Mix the Epsom salt and essential oil in a bowl.
Add the mixture to your bath water.
Let the bath soak in for at least 20 minutes so that your body can absorb the beneficial effects.
After this bath, you will feel relaxed and your skin will be soft and nourished.
Room spray
A room spray with palmarosa can refresh your living spaces and create a stimulating atmosphere. Drive away tiredness and promote your concentration. Here is the recipe for making it:
Ingredients
Approx. 60 ml distilled water
1 teaspoon alcohol (to emulsify the oil in the water)
5 drops of palmarosa oil
Instructions
Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
Shake well before each use and use as an energizing room spray.
Oil for dry skin
Do you suffer from dry and irritated skin? Then try this oil blend to care for your skin.
Ingredients
60 ml spray
10 drops frankincense
5 drops palmarosa
5 drops lavender
Fractionated coconut or almond oil
Instructions
Add the essential oils to your bottle and fill it with the carrier oil. Apply the mixture to the dry areas as needed and gently massage it in.
Energizing body scrub
Revitalize your skin and blood circulation with this delicious sugar scrub.
Ingredients
110 g sugar or Epsom salt
105 g coconut oil
5 drops of palmarosa
5 drops of grapefruit
Instructions
Mix all the ingredients together and store in a screw-top jar. Take a hazelnut-sized amount for each application and care for your skin.
Anti-insect spray for dogs
Dog lovers, take note! Here is a recipe for a natural insect spray that you can use to protect your pets from annoying animals without chemical ingredients.
Ingredients
5 drops of lemon eucalyptus
5 drops of palmarosa
5 drops of cedarwood
5 drops of peppermint
1 tsp of apple cider vinegar
60ml spray bottle
Instructions
Add all the ingredients to the bottle, fill it with distilled water and shake well before each use to mix the oils. Spray on the body before going for a walk, avoiding the eyes and genitals.
Aphid spray
Have you ever considered fighting your aphids in a natural way? With this spray, you will quickly get rid of the little crawlies and you are guaranteed to use only natural means.
Ingredients
1 tsp natural soap
5 drops palmarosa
2 drops oregano
200 ml spray bottle
Instructions
Put all the ingredients in the bottle and fill it up with distilled water. Test the mixture on a leaf first, let it work for 6-10 hours and then continue with the whole plant. Shake well before use.
How you can use Palmarosa
Aromatic application
In a diffuser to create an inviting atmosphere.
Put 1 drop in the palm of your hand and breathe in deeply.
Inhale to counteract stress and tension.
Topical application
After cleansing your face, add 1 drop to your face cream to moisturize your skin.
Combine with a massage oil to perform a soothing massage.
Important: Not all essential oils are the same in terms of quality. What I write about the use of palmarosa therefore only applies to the dōTERRA brand.
Tips for usage
Diffuse to create an inviting atmosphere.
Dilute in a carrier oil for a relaxing massage.
Use for a soothing Epsom salt bath.
Combine with a dōTERRA cleanser.
The essential oil palmarosa is known for its soothing and at the same time uplifting properties. It can balance emotions and is therefore perfect for use in stressful situations. But the oil is also definitely worth seeing in terms of physical applications. With its skin-care and immune-supporting properties, the oil should not be missing in any household.
Until August 15, 2024, you have the opportunity to receive this oil for free when you place your loyalty order.
Find out everything about the loyalty order here:
Are you looking for a way to get dōTERRA oils into your home? Are you not yet a dōTERRA customer and would like to purchase the oils at a lower price? Then you've come to the right place!
You don't have to meet a minimum order or monthly purchase requirement to get the special prices. You can find more information here and buy dōTERRA products at a special price, i.e. with a 25% discount. Take a look at the Magic of Oils page.
Are you already a dōTERRA Advantage customer? Order your favorite wellness essentials at your next LRP and get 10-30% back in the form of free product points. Discover the benefits of the loyalty program here.
Purity and sustainability
When using essential oils, make sure that you use a pure oil. A label that says "100% pure" does not necessarily mean that it is the best or safest essential oil. The EMA does not do a great job of regulating the market, so we as consumers have to be responsible buyers.
We choose doTERRA because we believe they have the highest standard of purity on the market – the Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade Standard. They also source oils from sustainable and responsible production. DoTERRA sources its oils through Co-Impact Sourcing > which is about eliminating the middleman, creating long-term mutually beneficial contracts and ensuring that farmers receive fair wages. We like to buy from responsible companies – not just those that are trying to make a quick buck.
*Please note that the order link is for Switzerland. If you live in another country, please change the country briefly by clicking on the link and then on the button in the top right-hand corner. There you can set the country and language individually. We are happy to help you with this.
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