Geranium Essential Oil

Botanical Name:Pelargonium graveolens

A common plant in gardens world-wide, Geranium is a perennial shrub that grows between three four feet high. Its pointed leaves are serrated at the edges and the branches host light to dark pink flowers. The name 'Geranium' comes from the Greek word 'geranos' or crane as the seed pods resemble the bill of a crane.

A native plant of South Africa, Egypt, Madagascar, and Morocco, it was introduced to European countries such as Italy, Spain and France in the 17th century and is now cultivated for essential oil production in the highly fertile volcanic soils of the Reunion Islands.

Although there are nearly 700 varieties of Geranium, only 10 are used for making essential oil. Geranium was first distilled in 1819 by the French perfume industry for their rose geranium.

There are in fact two species of Pelargonium distilled to essential oil: 'graveolens', which is the common Geranium, and 'odorantissium' or 'Rose Geranium' oil. This steam distilled essential oil is clear to light green and sourced from the flowers and leaves of Geranium organically grown in India. We have sampled many geranium varieties, and found the cost of the Reunion or 'Bourbon' geranium to make no difference in the aromatic or therapeutic quality of the oil. This an exceptional organic variety which we think you'll love!

Rose Geranium is high in geraniol with a more rose-like aroma than this 'graveolens' species that produces an oil with a higher citronellol content, and a correspondingly more citrus noted aroma..

Geranium has a bright, lightly floral aroma, with delecate intricate notes. The delicate characteristics of this oil mean that it has the potential to blend well with a wide array of essential oils including: Eucalyptus, Lavender, Clary Sage, Rose, Lime, Orange, Frankincense, Grapefruit, and Ylang Ylang.First used as an antidote elixir for anxiety, it soon after became known as an effective treatment for diarrhea and dysentery because of the antispasmodic action it has on the smooth muscles of the intestine. Many physicians also experimented with it as a remedy for wounds, tumors, ulcers, sore throats, tonsillitis, and neuralgia.

Antibacterial, Antidepressant, Antihaemorrhagic, Antispasmodic, Antitumoral, Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Cicatrisant, Deodorant, Diuretic, Fungicidal, Hemostatic, Stimulant (to the adrenal cortex), Styptic, Vermifuge, Vulnerary. (See Definitions.)

Skin:

• Antiseptic properties aid aids with acne, dermatitis, wounds, and non-serious burns.
• Anti-inflammatory can calm eczema, hemorrhoids mastitis and varicose veins.
• Helps to create balance between oily and dry skin; it is an astringent that is not dying,
• Soothing and balancing to the mucus membranes of the skin.
• Cleanses the skin while restoring balance, tone, and suppleness.
• A kidney tonic: assists with releasing fluid retention and therefore useful for cellulite therapies.

Anti-Bacterial:

• Successfully used in treatment of Candida infections, and has been the subject of many scientific studies validating its antimicrobial actions. Geranium specifically in combination with Lemongrass has been studied for its highly effective actions against antibiotic resistant strains of staphylococcus.
• It is one of the few essential oils that has been successfully used against MRSA bacteria in laboratory studies.
• Effectively treats sore throats and tonsillitis.

Psychological:

• Calming and uplifting
• Supports the release of negative and unpleasant memories.
• Eases nervous tension and stress and therefore balancing to the emotions, lifting the spirits, and fostering a sense of inner-peace and well-being.
• Helpful for depression or lives "lacking color": it effectively lifts worry and anxiety.
• Clears and dispels stagnant energy, thus can be helpful for those who need motivation and strength to accomplish visions and projects.

Psycho-Spiritual:

• Harmonic and balancing: can be used for spiritual practice and meditation
• Assists in connecting to intuition and wisdom
• Increases capacity for intimate and open communication

Muscular:

• Relieves stomach, intestinal and menstrual cramps.

Nervous System:

• Stimulates the adrenal cortex (as do Basil and Rosemary), releasing hormones that balance the whole system.
• Calms stress-related headaches and stomach aches.

Hormonal:

• Known as the flower of constancy, it helps regulate estrogen production.
• Relieves fluid retention prior to menstruation.
• Assists in reducing mood swings, PMS and menopausal discomfort.

Other uses:

• Lice and mosquito repellent
• Clearing ringworm

Topical:

• Apply directly to the skin or dilute with a non-scented massage oil (such as jojoba).

Inhalation:

• Add a few drops to a nebulizing diffuser or dilute in water to use in a humidifier to attain the aromatherapy benefits.

Ingestion

• Listed as : GRAS (the Food and Drug Administration's food additive label: 'Generally Recognized as Safe').

Geranium essential oil is generally a non-toxic, non-irritant. Avoid use with dermatitis in hypersensitive persons and also avoid use during pregnancy or when breast-feeding. If intending to ingest this oil, a consultation with a physician is recommended.