Geranium oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves and stems of the geranium plant, primarily Pelargonium graveolens or Pelargonium odorantissimum. Geranium is a flowering plant native to South Africa, although it's now cultivated in various regions for its aromatic properties and therapeutic uses. Geranium oil is known for its sweet, floral, and slightly citrusy aroma. Here are some common uses and benefits of geranium oil:
Aromatherapy: Geranium oil is widely used in aromatherapy for its calming and balancing effects on the mind and body. Inhaling its aroma can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote emotional well-being.
Skincare: Geranium oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its astringent, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help balance oil production, tone the skin, and reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes.
Hair Care: Geranium oil can be added to hair care products to promote a healthy scalp and hair. It may help balance sebum production, nourish the scalp, and improve the overall health of the hair.
Insect Repellent: Geranium oil is known for its insect-repelling properties, making it a natural option to deter mosquitoes and other insects.
Menstrual Support: Geranium oil may help provide relief from menstrual discomfort and hormonal imbalances. It can be used in massages or added to a warm bath.
Respiratory Health: Inhaling the vapor of geranium oil may help relieve symptoms of respiratory issues, such as colds, coughs, and sinus congestion.
Pain Relief: Geranium oil may have analgesic properties that can help alleviate minor aches and pains, including headaches and muscle soreness.
Anti-anxiety and Relaxation: Geranium oil is believed to have calming effects and can aid in relaxation. It may also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote better sleep.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties: Geranium oil possesses natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it suitable for treating minor wounds and skin infections.
Digestive Health: In traditional medicine, geranium oil has been used to aid digestion and soothe digestive issues.
Always dilute geranium oil with a suitable carrier oil (such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil) before applying it to the skin. Perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions. If you have specific health concerns or medical conditions, consult a healthcare professional before using geranium essential oil.
Botanical Name Pelargonium graveolens / Pelargonium asperum
Common Method of Extraction Steam Distilled
Plant Part Typically Used Leaves
Color Clear to Pale Yellow/Green
Consistency Thin
Perfumery Note Middle
Strength of Initial Aroma Very Strong
Aromatic Description Floral, fresh, sweet, slightly fruity.
Aromatherapy: Geranium oil is widely used in aromatherapy for its calming and balancing effects on the mind and body. Inhaling its aroma can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote emotional well-being.
Skincare: Geranium oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its astringent, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help balance oil production, tone the skin, and reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes.
Hair Care: Geranium oil can be added to hair care products to promote a healthy scalp and hair. It may help balance sebum production, nourish the scalp, and improve the overall health of the hair.
Insect Repellent: Geranium oil is known for its insect-repelling properties, making it a natural option to deter mosquitoes and other insects.
Menstrual Support: Geranium oil may help provide relief from menstrual discomfort and hormonal imbalances. It can be used in massages or added to a warm bath.
Respiratory Health: Inhaling the vapor of geranium oil may help relieve symptoms of respiratory issues, such as colds, coughs, and sinus congestion.
Pain Relief: Geranium oil may have analgesic properties that can help alleviate minor aches and pains, including headaches and muscle soreness.
Anti-anxiety and Relaxation: Geranium oil is believed to have calming effects and can aid in relaxation. It may also help reduce symptoms of anxiety and promote better sleep.