Geranium Essential Oil

Latin Name: Pelargonium Graveolens

Part of Plant Used: Leaves, Stalks & Flowers

Origin: Egypt

Extraction Method: Steam Distillation

Geranium essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves and stalks of the Pelargonium odoratissimum (apple geranium) plant. It has a strong scent with a floral aroma and hints of mint and apple. The main characteristic of this oil is its ability to balance and uplift, and it is used for both the mind and body, to alleviate a host of ailments.

Geranium essential oil helps to balance oily and dry skin, and also brings about balance to the mind, relieving stress and anxiety. It is said to work on the adrenal cortex, which has a balancing effect on the hormone system. Geranium oil has been used to treat acne, bruises, burns, cuts, dermatitis, eczema, haemorrhoids, ringworm, ulcers, breast congestion, oedema, poor circulation, sore throat, tonsillitis, pre-menstrual syndrome, menopausal problems, stress and neuralgia. Its strong scent repels mosquitoes. Add a few drops to shampoo to get rid of head lice.

These geraniums were believed to ward off evil spirits (as well as mosquitoes!), which is why they were planted around houses as hedges. The plants originated in South Africa, Reunion, Madagascar, Egypt and Morocco and were introduced to European countries in the 17th century. Although there are about 700 varieties of the plant, only 10 supply essential oil in viable quantities. The varieties planted in gardens generally produce too little oil for use in extraction.