Overview–
Your animated assistant will give you an overview of the Gramineae lesson. Please take the time to listen.
This lecture will take place in the Ship’s Library. Collect your laptop or notebook, scent impression sheets and strips, and any essential oils you have of this family. Bring a beverage if you like. Once you get comfy, please read about the essential oils in the Gramineae, or grass family, read the write-ups, and sniff the associated oils.
There are a number of videos in this section, including a grounding exercise with vetiver.
Introduction–
Gramineae oils are humble helpers. They are easy to like and affordable to bring into your life. Most of these plants are considered ground cover, i.e., grasses. We are used to walking on them without paying particular attention to the many gifts they give us. The family is adaptable and diverse. The plants have robust root systems and are nutritious to many animals, including humans.
Citronella
Cymbopogon nardus
From: Sri Lanka, China, Malaysia, and Central America (Guatemala)
Class: Alcohol
3 Key Constituents: Citronellal, Geraniol, (-)-Citronellal. (Wijesekera 1973; Bruns et al 1981; Carlin et al 1988; Laurence 1989 p. 31; Zhu et al 1993 p. 112)
Steam Distilled from the grass.
Favourite Use: Mosquito repellent- however, the Canadian Government made this illegal in 2012. Purchon & Cantele pg. 49. say, “…it is no longer used in these preparations in Canada and the European Union but not because of safety concerns. Manufacturers did not submit enough data regarding human health risk assessment in Canada. In the EU, citronella was not registered as an insect repellent in time for the deadline imposed by the Biocide Products Directive”. Hmmm. Strictly Politics. It was back in the Canadian market in 2015. We’ll watch for updates.
Citronella oil has been documented to have significant insect-repellent properties, especially against mosquitoes, lice, body and head louse, and fleas. This is one of the most well-known and widely accepted uses of citronella oil, supported by scientific research (Organic Facts).https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-citronella-essential-oil.html
Skin: Perspiration, insect repellent and deodorizer for oily skin and hair.
Cardio: Speeds heartbeat.
Immune: Colds, flu, minor infections. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 199
In addition to its insect-repelling capabilities, citronella oil is noted for its potential to reduce fever and fight inflammation, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, it has diaphoretic properties that may promote the removal of toxins from the body by increasing sweating (Organic Facts). https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-citronella-essential-oil.html
Another exciting aspect of citronella oil is its potential to manage pain and inflammation. Citronella contains components like geraniol, which have antioxidant capabilities that could be beneficial in mitigating pain and inflammation (Dr. Axe).
Mind: Dilute and rub into the neck, shoulders, and temples for a headache. Diffuse for depression.
Perfumery: Top to mid note; lemony. Low-mid odour intensity.
Blend with bergamot, cajeput, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, neroli, peppermint, petitgrain, sage, and ylang.
More Research:
Antibiofilm and Antifungal Properties
This study investigated the effectiveness of Cymbopogon nardus (citronella) essential oil against the fungus Candida albicans, both as a direct antifungal agent and in disrupting biofilms—a protective layer formed by colonies of fungi. The results showed that citronella oil, particularly its major component citronellal, effectively inhibits fungal growth and biofilm formation, suggesting its potential use in treating fungal infections.
Citation: Pontes, E. K. U., Melo, H. M., Nogueira, J. N. A., Firmino, N. C. S., de Carvalho, M. D., Catunda Júnior, F. E. A., & Cavalcante, T. T. A. (2018). “Antibiofilm activity of the essential oil of citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) and its major component, geraniol, on the bacterial biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus.” Food Science and Biotechnology, 28, 633-639. DOI: 10.1007/s10068-018-0502-2.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties
This study assessed the chemical composition and biological activities of citronella oil, highlighting its moderate antibacterial activity against various bacteria and its potent antioxidant properties. These findings support its use in natural health products and food preservatives.
Citation: Rhimi, W., Mohammed, M. A., Zarea, A., Greco, G., Tempesta, M., Otranto, D., & Cafarchia, C. (2022). “Antifungal, Antioxidant and Antibiofilm Activities of Essential Oils of Cymbopogon spp.” Antibiotics, 11(6), 829. DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060829.
Citation: Brito, L. C. F., Feitosa Dias, L. M., Santos Pereira, G. S., Alves, N. B., Rocha, M., de Sousa Junior, J. F., Barros, V. C., Muratori, M. (2021). “Analysis of the chemical composition, antifungal activity and larvicidal action against Aedes aegypti larvae of the Essential Oil Cymbopogon nardus.” Research, Society and Development. DOI: 10.33448/rsd-v10i13.21452.
Cytoprotective Properties
Research on citronella oil’s protective effects against cellular damage found that it helps in guarding cells against environmental stresses like pollution. This study underscores the potential therapeutic uses of citronella oil in skincare and health supplements.
Citation: Salsabila, D., Wardani, R. K., Hasanah, N. U., Tafrihani, A. S., Zulfin, U. M., Ikawati, M., & Meiyanto, E. (2023). “Cytoprotective Properties of Citronella Oil (Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendl.) and Lemongrass Oil (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf) through Attenuation of Senescent-Induced Chemotherapeutic Agent Doxorubicin on Vero and NIH-3T3 Cells.” Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 24(5), 1667-1675. DOI: 10.31557/APJCP.2023.24.5.1667.
Cautions: Avoid use on sensitive or damaged skin; avoid in pregnancy and with pets. There may also be skin sensitization with this essential oil. Please do not take it internally. Negative interactions with some medications have been noted with some internal use. Substitute lemongrass or eucalyptus citriodora.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Java Citronella
Cymbopogon winterianus
From: Java
Class: aldehyde
3 Key Constituents: Citronellal, Geraniol, (-)-Citronellal. (Carlin et al 1988; Rao et al 1998).
Yields twice as much oil as Citronella species above. Used for the same purposes as Ceylon Citronella, except not noted to speed heartbeat.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy and with children under 3. Please do not take it internally. This essential oil may also cause skin sensitization.
The Citronella Video
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Ginger grass
Gingergrass and palmarosa are “close siblings, distilled from two different varieties of the same plant species,” says Dr. Berkowsky, pg. 2, Differentiation via Gemstone synchronicities. He also says that their profiles are similar. They are often found at different altitudes; gingergrass prefers lower altitudes and higher humidity. Palmarosa prefers a dry environment, which makes It better for a dry climate. Palmarosa is generally higher in geraniol, an excellent dry skin substance.
(It is not covered in a video. It has similar uses as Palmarosa but sports a grassy, green, gingery scent).
Cymbopogon martini var. sofia
From: Brazil
Steam distilled from grass. Also known as Russa, Sofia or Rosha grass.
Class: alcohols and esters
3 Key Constituents: (+) – Limonene, (Z)-p-Mentha-1(7), 8-dien-2-ol, (E)-p-Mentha-1(7), 8-dien-2-ol, geraniol (up to 65%) (Boelens 1994). It also contains perilla alcohol and carvone.
Cosmetic: Dilute and apply for acne, dermatitis, and scars. Ginger grass is a cellular regenerator, helps with wrinkles and is suitable for balancing oil production. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 197. It can help treat skin infections and dry and wet eczema.
Respiratory: Diffuse for sinus infections, clogged nasal passages and bronchitis. Add a drop to salt water to use as a gargle for sore throats.
Cardio/Lymph: Varicose veins dilate vessels. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 197.
Digestive: Good for people with anorexia, as a scent, as it may stimulate hunger.
Genito: Bladder infections- dilute with carrier and massage into the pelvic area. Candida- add to the bathtub or a drop in a douche.
Nervous system: Diffuse or use a few drops in your liquid soap for a morning shower to combat exhaustion and morning fatigue. It calms and uplifts. This oil is helpful for nervous and cardiac restoration in chronic weak conditions of neurasthenia involving heart issues.
Cautions. Avoid in early pregnancy and with children under 3. There’s no internal use.
Skin sensitization can occur in older oils. Store in a dark, airtight container in the refrigerator to avoid this issue. Tisserand pg. 296
*Gingergrass has many of the same qualities as Palmarosa but has a more pungent scent.
Could you record your impression of this oil in your Journal?
Lemongrass
Cymbopogon flexuosus/ C. citratus
From: India, Madagascar, Brazil,
Class: monoterpenoid aldehydes (60-86%), including citral (70-75%).
3 Key Constituents: Geranial, Neral, Geranyl Acetate (Lawrence 1989 p.111, 2002f p. 58)
Steam distilled from the partly dried grass/herb
Lemongrass is one of the top ten-selling oils in the world!
Favourite Use: Diffuse or use in the bath to calm down and uplift. One study on 40 male volunteers suggests lemongrass essential oil is clinically relevant as an anxiety treatment. Goes TC et al., J Altern Complement Med 2015 21(12): 766-73.
Lady Lemongrass!
Skin: Add a couple of drops to shampoo for oily hair. Dilute in a carrier for acne and skin infections. Dilute or dab straight onto the athlete’s foot and ringworm. The oil is strongly anti-fungal.
In homemade creams or serum concoctions, lemongrass aids weak connective tissue and tightens elastin weakness.
You may recognize the scent of ivory soap.
Original Artwork by Tammy Courtney- Student Project- Lemongrass Fairies
Muscular: Use in a massage blend for arthritis and muscle pain and to increase muscle tone. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 195. Citronella, combined with beta-cyclodextrin, is a superior analgesic for chronic muscle pain. Santos PL et al., Phytomedicine 2016.007
Lemongrass relaxes smooth and striated muscles, reducing pain, inflammation and spasms.
It may help lymph circulation and drainage.
Immune: Diffuse or use in a bath for fevers and infections. Lemongrass has disinfectant and deodorant properties.
Diluted and rubbed into the area, it supports the thymus gland and activates resistance cells, T lymphocytes, histiocytes, and granulocytes. It is used in India for cholera. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 195
Press Play on the Video to Hear Tammy Courtney’s Story About What Happened Under The Fullest Lemon Moon—Student Project.
Respiratory: One study suggests it protects against oxidative stress and DNA damage in human lung fibroblasts and could be a promising agent for lung cancer chemoprevention. Jiang J et al., Toxicol Mech Methods 2017 27(2): 121-7.
Mouth: Various studies find lemongrass oil (0.25%) mouthwash useful for treating chronic periodontitis and reducing serum markers of cardiovascular disease. Subha DS & T. Pradeep. Ethiop J Health Sci 2017 27(5): 531-40. The oil is a useful adjunctive mouth rinse for rolling scaling and root planing, combining well with rosemary and Thymus zygis. Azad MF et al., BMC Complement Altern Med 2016 16:171.
Lemongrass (C. citratus) essential oil inhibits several primary dental colonizers and caries-related species. Studies suggest it is an excellent mouthwash against dental biofilms. Oliveira MAC et al, Braz Oral Res 2017 31:e89.
Perfumery: Lemony; Top-mid note; Sweet and lemony; Odor intensity mild-mid note.
Mental/Emotional: This oil can steer us from cynicism to optimism and from confusion to clarity. It promotes cool, clear thinking, relaxed focus, and concentration (Holmes 2016).
Blends with Basil, bay, bergamot, cardamom, cedarwood, cinnamon, clary, clove, coriander, frankincense, geranium, hyssop, jasmine, lavender, mandarin, neroli, niaouli, nutmeg, orange, palmarosa, patchouli, petitgrain, rosemary, spikenard, tea tree, thyme, vetiver, and yarrow.
Mythology and Spirituality: Used to purify space.
Lemongrass is related to the element of air and fairies and the high priestess card in tarot.
Lemongrass Research:
Research has indicated its efficacy in several clinical applications, including dental health, where it is as effective as chlorhexidine in treating periodontitis and gingivitis. It’s also been found potentially beneficial for skin conditions like pityriasis versicolor and may even have anti-dandruff effects (MDPI). https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/17/2/159
Additionally, it’s been linked to cholesterol management. In one study, lemongrass essential oil notably reduced cholesterol levels over 21 days (Healthy and Natural World). https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/lemongrass-essential-oil-uses-and-benefits/
Lemongrass oil has also been recognized for its role in pain relief. A topical mixture with coconut oil can alleviate joint pain, leveraging both the oil’s anti-inflammatory properties and the soothing effect of coconut oil (Healthy and Natural World). https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/lemongrass-essential-oil-uses-and-benefits/
Furthermore, its antibacterial activities make it a potent ingredient for homemade mouthwashes, showing greater efficacy than some commercial alternatives in reducing plaque and bad breath (Healthy and Natural World). https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/lemongrass-essential-oil-uses-and-benefits/
Cautions: Anticoagulant. Possible dermal irritant. Use 0.5% or lower dose to avoid sensitivity issues- Tisserand, pg. 334. Avoid this during pregnancy and with children under 3. Please do not take it internally.
The Lemongrass Video
Record your impression of this oil in your Journal.
Lady Lemongrass Student Project – Anita Berger
Palmarosa
Cymbopogon martini var. motia
From: Brazil, India, Philippines, Java, Africa, Madagascar, Guatemala
Class: alcohol, esters
3 Key Constituents: Geraniol (80- 95%), Geranyl acetate (5-25%), (E, Z)- Farnesol. (Lawrence 2002a. p. 56-57)
Steam distilled from the grass. Robert prefers the Guatemalan product.
Dr. Bruce Berkowsky suggests palmarosa is associated with pink topaz, and Gingergrass (above) is associated with brown topaz.
Skin: Palmarosa, comprised of alcohol and esters, is gentler on the skin than many essential oils. It can be diluted and applied to acne, dermatitis, eczema, scars and wrinkles. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 197
A standout feature of Palmarosa oil is its cytophylactic properties, promoting cell growth and regeneration, which is beneficial for healing wounds and boosting the body’s immune response (Organic Facts). https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-palma-rosa-essential-oil.html
It also regulates sebum and is a cellular regenerator. Purchon and Cantle pg. 92 say it restores and maintains correct water balance and, if used regularly, will help to tone wrinkles and rough skin. Not bad for such an inexpensive essential oil!
Respiratory: Diffuse for rhinopharyngitis, sinusitis, and bronchitis. Add a drop to salt water and gargle for a sore throat. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 197
Immune:
Palmarosa is recognized for its ability to reduce fever thanks to its antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. This makes it an effective remedy against fevers caused by various infections .
Furthermore, Palmarosa oil has demonstrated potential in fighting viral infections. Its mechanism involves inhibiting the replication of viruses, providing a strategic defence against viral diseases.
In addition to its antiviral capabilities, Palmarosa oil is also celebrated for its bactericidal nature, effectively combating and preventing bacterial infections in both internal and external bodily systems .
Digestive: This is a restorative to microflora, with prebiotic and detoxifying action. This makes it valuable for internal use in intestinal dysbiosis and in healing leaky gut syndrome or hyperpermeability.
Endocrine—Diluted and rubbed on, it may normalize the thyroid (Sheppard-Hanger, pg. 197). It assists those with nervous and heart weakness, especially related to chronic stress. It moderates heart feelings and gut instinct.
Genito– Add to a bath or a drop to a douche for thrush, cystitis, or vaginitis.
Katie’s Hot Head Release Blend- Video, Please Press Play
Mental: Diffuse for nervous exhaustion and morning fatigue. Palmarosa calms & uplifts. It has been noted to be helpful for anorexia to stimulate appetite, Purchon and Cantele pg. 92. Good for mood swings, negative feelings, long-term fatigue and insomnia (Holmes 2016). It may be useful for addictions, including food. Holmes suggests the oil for conditions of emotional scarcity.
Its hydrating properties are beneficial for maintaining skin moisture, proving particularly advantageous for skin health. In aromatherapy, Palmarosa oil is valued for its ability to relax muscles and nerves and combat stress, anxiety, and depression while uplifting the mind (Organic Facts). https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-palma-rosa-essential-oil.html
Muscular: It may be helpful in massage blends for arthritis, muscle aches, and even cramps.
Perfumery: It is rosy-scented, lemony, or a bit raisin-like. Mid note. Odour intensity is mild. It is a good essential oil for soap-making because it is economical to purchase and well-tolerated.
It blends with amyris, bay, bergamot, chamomile roman, clary, clove, coriander, frankincense, grapefruit, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, lemon, lime, melissa, nutmeg, orange, patchouli, petitgrain, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, spikenard, vetiver, and ylang.
Helps create that geraniol rosy tone. Used to extend rose.
Cautions: Avoid during pregnancy and with children. There is a low risk of skin sensitization. Do not take it internally, as negative interactions can occur with some drugs. Maximum dermal limit 5.3%
The Palmarosa Video
Record your impression of this oil in your Journal.
Vetiver
Vetiveria zizanoides
From: Java, Haiti, Brazil, India, Madagascar, China
Class: Sesquiterpenols, Alcohol, ketone
3 Key Constituents: Zetiverol (45-70%), Zizanol, Vetinenol, Cyclocopacamphan-12ol (epimer A)(Champagnat et al 2006) Tisserand pg. 466.
Vetiver essential oil is steam distilled from the plant’s root and sometimes recycled vetiver door screens. Its scent reminds one of damp earth, sliced raw potatoes, and damp, mildew furniture. Its woody, mossy, fatty fragrance reminds one of the pristine, earthy tropical jungle (Holmes 2016).
Skin: Dilute with a carrier oil or use in creams for dry, mature skin. Its masculine scent makes it especially nice for androgynous blends.
It can be used on acne. It works on atrophic or slack skin. Increases the entire venous vessel system to increase blood supply and detox connective tissue. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 423
It promotes the regeneration of tissues and aids in the healing of scars and marks (Organic Facts). https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-vetiver-essential-oil.html
Its antiseptic qualities help to heal acne, cuts and infected wounds, Purchon and Cantele, pg. 115
Immune: Cools fevers and stimulates a suppressed immune system.
It’s known for its antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress throughout the body, potentially boosting the immune system by removing toxins (Healthy and Natural World) https://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/amazing-health-benefits-vetiver-essential-oil/
Vetiver oil’s antibacterial qualities make it effective against certain bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, suggesting its potential in preventing bacterial infections (Healthy and Natural World). (The same link is provided as above.)
Genito: Vetiver is a tonic for the urinary system. Induces menstruation and eases post-partum depression. Sheppard-Hanger pg. 423
Mental: Vetiver is sometimes called the oil of tranquillity. Blend vetiver with a thinner oil and diffuse in an air diffuser, or add a few drops to a water-based diffuser. It aids insomnia and is grounding. It helps strengthen the nervous system. It benefits those who worry, are oversensitive, or feel insecure. Dilute and use on the bottom of your feet to help you get grounded.
This oil has been shown to have significant calming effects, which can alleviate anxiety and stress symptoms (Organic Facts) https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-vetiver-essential-oil.html Moreover, vetiver oil is recognized for its sedative properties, making it an excellent aid for individuals suffering from insomnia or those who need help settling down from emotional outbursts or nervousness.
Vetiver essential oil suppressed the decline in attention at computers. Under low doses, the oil helped subjects maintain performance in visual discrimination tasks while maintaining high sympathetic nervous system activity. Matsubara E et al., Biomed Res 2012 33(5): 299-308.
Perfumery: Earthy, heavy and green, this is one of the classic base notes used in perfumery. Odour intensity is mid-high. Reminiscent of roots and wet soil, it is said to add the smell of stems and leaves to rose-based perfumes. A classic in men’s or androgynous perfumes.
It blends well with other green and herbal notes, as well as with bergamot, black pepper, cedar, clary, clove, coriander, eucalyptus citriodora, frankincense, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, labdanum, lavender, lemon, lime, mandarin, melissa, nutmeg, oakmoss, orange, patchouli, pine, rose, sandalwood, ylang, and yuzu.
Cautions: Dermatitis on sensitive individuals. Do not take while pregnant, nor use with children. Please do not use it internally.
The Vetiver Video
Record your impression of this oil in your Journal.
Vetiver Grounding Exercise, Video–
Prepare a bottle of 5 ml carrier oil and 5 drops of vetiver oil before starting. Emily, the Ship’s Meditation Teacher, narrates the exercise. Vetiver can be applied to the feet or inhaled to help ground at any time. This exercise can also be useful without the use of vetiver:)
Your link to the Scent Impressions Download Page is here- https://www.northernstarcourses.com/lesson/f-the-scent-impressions-sheet/