Introduction Palmarosa essential oil is a sweet, floral, and rosy-scented oil distilled from the grassy leaves of Cymbopogon martinii , a plant related to lemongrass and citronella. Its aroma is delicately rosy with fresh green and citrus undertones , making it a valuable ingredient in perfumery as a natural alternative to rose oil. Traditionally used in Indian Ayurveda and folk medicine, Palmarosa is known for its skin-nourishing, calming, and harmonizing qualities . At Herbsmetics, we feature Palmarosa oil in our Perfume & Aromatherapy Workshops in Phuket , where guests learn how this elegant grass oil bridges freshness and floral sweetness in fragrance design. Aroma Profile
Top Notes : Fresh, sweet, citrusy-green.
Heart Notes : Rosy, floral, slightly fruity.
Base Nuance : Soft, woody-floral with a lingering sweetness.
Palmarosa is often described as a softer, greener cousin to rose and geranium , making it highly versatile in floral compositions. Origins & Cultural Heritage Palmarosa ( Cymbopogon martinii ) is native to India and Southeast Asia:
Ayurvedic Tradition : Used for skin healing, calming emotions, and balancing energy.
Indian Heritage : Known as “Indian geranium oil” for its rose-like fragrance.
Thai & Southeast Asian Use : Incorporated in herbal remedies and skincare for its cooling and moisturizing qualities.
Symbolism : Represents love, renewal, and emotional balance .
Production & Extraction Palmarosa essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the fresh or dried grass leaves .
Key Compounds : High in geraniol (up to 80%), with linalool and farnesol.
Quality : Pale yellow oil with a rosy, floral, and refreshing aroma.
Distinctiveness : Known as one of the best natural sources of geraniol , making it highly valuable in perfumery.
Benefits & Unique Advantages
Skin Care : Hydrating, balancing sebum production, and soothing for dry or oily skin.
Emotional Balance : Calms anxiety, uplifts the spirit, and promotes self-love.
Immune Support : Traditionally used for strengthening and protection.
Perfumery Role : Adds a rosy-floral heart note with freshness and longevity.
Wellness : Inspires renewal, harmony, and emotional comfort.
Workshop Relevance At the Herbsmetics Perfume & Aromatherapy Workshops in Phuket , Palmarosa oil is introduced as a bridge between fresh grasses and florals :
Guests discover how a grassy plant can yield a rosy-floral aroma .
Blends beautifully with rose, geranium, sandalwood, or citrus oils.
Used to demonstrate the art of natural substitutions in perfumery (rose-like notes without rose oil).
Its elegant balance of freshness and floral sweetness makes it a highlight of the workshop. Example Uses
Perfumery : Blend with rose, geranium, or jasmine for floral accords, or with citrus for fresh elegance.
Diffuser : Add 3–4 drops for a calming, uplifting, rosy atmosphere.
Massage Oils : Dilute in carrier oil for soothing skin and balancing blends.
Skincare : Popular in lotions, creams, and serums for its moisturizing and balancing effects.
Wellness Rituals : Use in blends for emotional balance, relaxation, and renewal.
Safety Note Palmarosa oil is generally safe and gentle but should always be diluted before topical use (1–2%). Why Choose Herbsmetics Palmarosa Oil?
Pure steam-distilled Palmarosa grass oil , rich in geraniol.
A natural rosy-floral note with freshness and balance.
Deeply tied to Indian Ayurveda and Southeast Asian traditions .
Featured in our Phuket workshops, where guests explore its unique position between grass and floral oils .
👉 Perfect for those seeking a rosy, fresh-floral oil that delivers emotional balance, skin benefits, and elegant fragrance versatility .