Geraniums always reminds me of my mother, not just because she was very fond of them but most of the Geranium species has originated from South Africa. I grew up in South Africa and was probably very ignorant of the sight of geraniums everywhere.
Geranium is a bushy perennial shrub and have these hairy heart shape leaves and colorful flowers and is popular garden plant.
There isn’t really any ancient history about the use of geranium and only in the 1800’s have geranium flowers been distilled and used as a perfume ingredient. The floral, slightly spicy aroma can be quite exotic.
Today we use Geranium oil for a variety of issues:
Mental health
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Anti-inflammatory
- Gastritis
- Colitis
Skincare
The astringent properties of geranium helps to tone and balance sebum. It’s parasiticidal properties helps with fungal conditions. Geranium can be used, diluted of course, on almost all skin types. Good for inflamed skin, congested, sluggish and oily skin as well as those struggling with the dryness of eczema and psoriasis.
- Eczema – the astringent properties of geranium helps to
- Psoriasis
- Dermatitis
- Acne
- Bruises
- Athlete’s foot
- Impetigo
- Head lice
- Hemorrhoids
Circulation
Geranium is a warming oil and assist with regulation of blood flow and helpful for circulation issues due to the analgesic and anti-spasmodic properties.
- Varicose veins
- Raynauds disease
- Haemorrhoids
- Stimulate lymphatic system so useful for cellulite, oedema and water retention
Reproductive problems
Geranium oil is also referred to as the woman’s oil because it can help with a lot of hormonal issues that women deals with on a daily basis.
- Excessive menstrual bleeding
- PMS
- Menstrual cramps
- Helpful for lymphatic congestion
- Menopause – Geranium may help to balance hyposecretion of either androgens or oestrogens. In other words it is a good oil to use to help your body balance its hormones.
- Reproductive problems such as infertility and endometriosis
Emotional wellbeing
- Helpful for irritation and frustration
- Grounding and can give a sense of security so beneficial for those with chronic anxiety
- Great oil for the workaholic and perfectionist who is really goal driven – not to focus and concentrate but rather to reconnect with their imagination and sensory experience.
- The sedative properties make it a useful oil when you are experiencing nervousness and experiencing physical pain which has emotional roots rather than physical. Geranium has both sedative and uplifting properties, like Bergamot.
Inflammation
- Geranium can assist to reduce inflammation.
Insect repellent
- The high terpene content make it a good mosquito repellent.
- Mix Geranium and Lemon oil with water and a surfactant to use as a room spray to eliminate odours and flies.
Geranium essential oil –Pelargonium graveolens / Pelargonium asperum
Blends well with:
Citrus family – although you might find that it has a very sharp smell when combined.
Wood family
Floral family
Geranium is one of the few oils that can blend with almost all other oils.
Method of extraction – steam distilled
Part of plant used – leaves
Consistency – thin
Color – light green to clear
Perfumery notes – middle
Scent – floral fresh scent. If you would be able to smell the color green, this would probably be it.
Warming oil
Chemical constituents – geraniol,linalol,terpineol,citronellal
General Safety Information
Geranium oil can lower the blood sugar, so avoid using it when you are hypoglycemic.
Do not take essential oils internally or apply essential oils undiluted topically.
Follow Dilution recommendations on the Essential oil Dilution chart.
Pregnant women have to consult with a qualified aromatherapist and or midwife and doctor before using essential oils, especially topically.
If you have liver damage, cancer, suffers from epilepsy or other medical problems and take medicine on a regular basis then you have to use essential oils under the guidance of a trained aromatherapist.
Before using essential oils on children you should consult with a qualified aromatherapist.
Check whether the essential oil of your choice is safe to use around your pets. Here is a list of essential oils safety for dogs.