Geranium
Species name: Pelargonium graveolens
Also known as: Rose geranium, old fashion rose geranium, rose-scent geranium, geranium
Geranium essential oil is extracted via steam distillation. Even though this plant bears flowers the oil is taken from the stem and leaves with the leaves producing the highest extraction.
The essential oil of geranium is almost clear, but can have a very pale green tint. It is thin and watery in texture.
Geranium plants are native to South Africa, but were popular in Europe as early as the 17th century.
Out of the many hundred varieties of geranium oil, there are approximately ten that are suitable for distillation into essential oils.
A perennial plant, geraniums bloom in a wide variety of colors and are popular house plants. One reason for their popularity has been the antiquated belief that geraniums could ward off evil spirits.
Geraniums have a pungent odor when the leaves are pinched or bruised, and the smell was believed to be offensive to the marauding spirits.
The essential oil can have different aromas due to its environment while growing but usually tends towards a strong, floral, rose like scent.
Home Remedies using Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium essential oil can be used in a diffuser, simmer pot, or steam baths, for aromatherapy.
It can be blended with other oils and carriers to produce good massage oil for aches and pains and emotional balance. It blends well with lemon, peppermint, chamomile and sandalwod
It can be added to a bath, or a few drops can enhance cream and lotion bases for calm and clarity.
When used in cosmetics it can blend well in soaps.
Benefits of Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium essential oil is said to have properties that calm the mind and emotions. The scent helps in allaying anxiety, relieving stress and balancing the hormones. Its minty rose like aroma is said to be effective against nerve pain.
This essential oil is also believed to stimulate the adrenal cortex and lymphatic systems in the body while balancing hormones making it effective to use during the menstrual cycle and menopause.
Becuase it can affect blood flow it has been found useful to regulate menstrual bleeding.
It can stop bleeding, tighten skin and capillaries. It is helpful for shrinking swollen, inflamed hemorrhoids and speeds healing of contusions and bruises. Acting as a natural antiseptic it can clean small cuts and wounds.
It is an effective skin toner, alleviating excessive oils, enhancing natural elasticity, and promoting healing of scars. It is particularly good as an astringent for those who have combination skin, such as skin that is oily in the “T-zone” and otherwise dry areas
It can be used in a shampoo for head lice and is effective against ringworms.
Not only is it usefull for health purposes but it also naturally reppells insects.
Side Effects of Geranium Essential Oil
Geranium oil has few side effects.
Although not considered toxic this essential oil should be preceded by a patch test before use on skin.
Avoid during pregnancy and if breastfeeding as it may influence hormonal balances.
Please consult with a doctor before using this or any other essential oil.
