Essential Oil of the Month: Palmarosa

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As one would guess by its name, Palmarosa’s refreshing scent (sometimes known as gingergrass) is grassy and slightly rosy, somewhat reminiscent of Lemongrass and Rose. Its gently sweet fragrance invites you to flow with life's changes, encouraging compassion, forgiveness, and unconditional love—both for oneself and others, ultimately resulting in profound inner peace.

Palmarosa’s Latin name, Cymbopogon martinii, comes from the Cymbopogon genus (which includes lemongrass and citronella) and was named after the French botanist Louis Martin, who studied aromatic grasses. Its lemony-rose scent is calming, comforting, and reminds us to be gentle with ourselves. It brings with it a sense of stability and security, offering a space to comfortably “let go” and walk with Spirit.

According to Valerie Ann Worwood in her book, The Fragrant Heavens, Palmarosa “Assists when we are feeling neglected or misunderstood, and would like the comfort of the angelic realms.” P.77

18th Century Europe:

Having its roots, so to speak, in India and Nepal, Palmarosa was discovered in 18^th Century Europe, particularly France, for its grassy yet floral scent somewhat evocative of highly valued Rose oil. Its similarity to the precious and costly scent of Rose (Rosa damascena) soon made it an important ingredient in perfumery as a fixative and/or substitute for the much more expensive Rose oil.

Palmarosa has long been used in the time-honored practice of Ayurveda for its cooling and hydrating properties. Traditional healers used it for tranquility, to treat skin, and promote emotional balance.

In the ancient practice of Ayurvedic medicine Palmarosa is considered to be:

• Cooling and hydrating – It helps balance Pitta dosha, which governs heat in the body.
• Emotionally uplifting – Helps calm and soothe, aligning with its ability to balance moods.

How it was and is Used:

• Skincare: Mixed with carrier oils (like coconut or sesame) for moisturizing and restoration.

• Massage: Used in Abhyanga (Ayurvedic oil massage) for relaxation and cleansing.

• Aromatherapy: Diffused to calm the mind and promote emotional balance.

Palmarosa has traditionally been used in Chinese medicine for its myriad benefits to support well-being.

Clears Heat & Balances Yin and Yang:

• In the ancient tradition, Palmarosa is considered cool and moist (Yin) and helps balance excess Yang (internal heat). Its Yin energy supports the body’s calming, moistening functions.

• In skincare, Palmarosa’s cool and moist qualities make it wonderful for hydration.

• In TCM, the Shen (Mind or spirit) resides in the energy of the heart (Heart-Yin) and governs emotions. Palmarosa’s calming nature helps balance moods, comforting heart and mind.

• Opens the Heart Chakra – Palmarosa is linked to the Heart Chakra, helping to cultivate love, compassion, and emotional harmony.
• Enhances Self-Love and Acceptance  – Its nurturing energy fosters self-worth, confidence, and emotional resilience.
• Promotes Relaxation and Inner Peace  – Often used in meditation and spiritual rituals to calm the mind and connect with higher consciousness.
• Purifies and Protects Energy  – Helps clear negative energy, making it great for spiritual cleansing and protection rituals.
• Hightens Intuition  – Used to enhance spiritual insight, creativity, and mindfulness.