Lets Learn About Geranium Essential Oil…
Astringent, antibacterial, anti-fungal and antioxidant
Geranium essential oil has a sweet, floral fragrance that calms and relaxes the body and mind. Originally a native of South Africa & Mozambique, Geranium is recorded as far back as the Greeks and Egyptians for use in promoting and supporting healthy skin though it was first distilled into an essential oil in the 1800s.
There are many varieties of Geranium essential oil which vary in quality depending on which country the plant is grown in but Pelargonium graveolens is the source of the essential oil that is considered best for use in aromatherapy. The name Pelargonium comes from Greek for stork describing the stork’s bill shape of the seed pods after flowering.
Pelargonium graveolens has small pink flowers and pointed leaves. The plant is harvested just before its flowers open and between 300-500 kg of the stems and leaves of the plant are used to extract just 1 kg of essential oil by steam distillation, which makes it an expensive oil to produce but it’s benefits have proved it worth the extra expense.
Used traditionally to support the circulatory and nervous systems and to revitalise body tissues, it is a widely used ingredient in aromatherapy due to its many health benefits, including the ability to help balance hormones, relieve stress, depression and insomnia, reduce inflammation and irritation, improve health of the skin, alleviate the effects of PMS and menopause, improve circulation, benefit dental health, boost kidney health, and reduce blood pressure.
Geraniol and citronellol (also in rose oil) are the main constituents and this oil is often compared to the more expensive rose essential oil because they share almost the same therapeutic traits. Geranium is often used to create an artificial rose scent in fragrances and cosmetics and candles.
Soothe-me products that contain Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
Here are our natural handmade products that contain Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) oil or hydrosol
Main benefits of Geranium essential oil
- offers great benefits for skin disorders as it is astringent, antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant and is recommended to treat acne and eczema, cuts, bruises, burns, frostbite, fungal infections (athlete’s foot, etc)..
- is excellent for healing wounds as it is antiseptic and haemostatic (blood clotting and bleeding) which helps prevent toxins from entering your bloodstream through open wounds.
- can also help prevent the appearance of scars and dark spots by improving the blood circulation just below the surface of the skin and promoting equal distribution of melanin.
- the astringent properties cause tissues to contract (muscles, intestines, skin, blood vessels, gums) and massaged onto skin gives muscles a toned appearance helping to prevent skin from sagging and wrinkling.
- assists in detoxification by increasing the rate of urination. This process of elimination not only removes toxins from your body, but also aids in your digestive function and helps inhibit the excess gas in your intestines.
Suggested ways to use Geranium essential oil
- cuts and bruises – apply neat and cover with gauze & repeat a few times per day when the dressing needs changing.
- excellent relaxant for tiredness and convalescence – 6 drops in your bath or mix 3drops for every 2 teaspoons of carrier oil such as coconut, grape, olive, almond or jojoba and massage into skin to relieve aching muscles, fatigue and stress.
- pick-me-up before work or play – mix 5 drops of Geranium into 2 teaspoons of carrier oil and massage into your temples, back of neck, sinus and back of hands. Rest on floor for 5 minutes and your energy will be renewed!!- Particularly refreshing if you are just home from work and have to dash off out again.
- stimulant for the brain – diffuse the aroma of Geranium through the room when you work late. If you don’t have a diffuser try placing a few drops on cotton wool or tissue and leave beside a desk lamp while you are working, switching the lamp on of course!! and take a deep breath every so often.
- uplifting and soothing for mind, body and soul when blended with Angelica, Basil, Carrot Seed, Citronella, Jasmine, Lime and/or Rosemary
- good deodoriser – add a few drops of Geranium oil to a warm bath to benefit
- haemorrhoids (piles) – can be helped by adding one drop of Geranium oil to a small jar of base cream or one teaspoon of wheat germ oil and apply.
- athlete’s foot – try five drops of the essential oil combined with a tablespoon of carrier oil massaged into feet then soak in a bowl of warm water and sea salt.
- insect repellent – mix 16 drops Geranium to 4 teaspoons of carrier oil and massage into body as a pleasantly fragranced repellent. You can apply neat to bites and repeat several times a day to stop itching (can use on face but keep away from your eyes).
- add to baked goods, frozen dairy, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages, smoothies and candies – add one drop to a pot of tea
Summary:
Geranium oil is said to be mild and have no serious known side effects but it’s always best to do a quick patch test before applying it directly to your skin particularly if you have sensitive skin.
As with all essential oils exercise caution if you’re pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications and keep essential oils out of reach of small children.
Be aware that due to the high price of Geranium there are fake oils on the market which are not good for therapeutic use and are often made from artificial esters, cedarwood, turpentine or lemongrass.
When buying geranium plants, perlargoniums are commonly called geraniums and can be confused with European Geraniums which include Crane’s Bill.
Written by: Maggi
Editor: Suzie