NRIPL

PALMAROSA OIL

Botanical Name

Cymbopogon martinii (Roxb.) W.Watson

Synonym

Rhododendron hypenanthum Balf. f.

Family

Gramineae

Local Name

Palmarosa

English Name

Palmarosa

Plant Description

Palmarosa is perennial grass is native to south-east Asia. It is cultivated for its oil. It is an exotic variety to Nepal and found distributed within the altitude of 300m to 1500m. This plant has been widely cultivated for its aromatic value. The plant reaches up to 2m in height. Leaves are linear-lanceolate and finely caudate. Leaves arises mosly from base of the stem and are highly fragrant. Flowers appear in panicles and turns to reddish brown when mature.

Extraction

Palmarosa oil is extracted from the steam distillation of fresh or semi-dried grass.

Uses

Palmarosa oil has been shown to be an effective insect repellent when applied to stored grain and beans, an antihelmintic against nematodes, and an antifungal and mosquito repellent. Palmarosa oil is widely used in the manufacture of soaps, detergents, in the perfumery and cosmetics. The oil has antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal, cytophylactic, digestive, febrifuge and stimulant properties. The oil is used in aromatheraphy for nervous system, digestive system and in skin care. Palmarosa oil is mainly used for the isolation of high grade geraniol, and in flavouting tobacco.