In the early 19th century, Commercial production of geranium oil began in
France. Geraniums are native to arid areas of South Africa's Cape province.
The first species was probably pelargonium capitatum which still grows wild
today. Widely used in the production of perfumes and cosmetics, it can be
made to imitate many fragrances and is often used to 'stretch' the much more
expensive oil of rose.
Description of Geranium essential
oil:
The plant is highly drought resistant. This particular variety grows to
about two feet high and has serrated, pointed leaves and small pink flowers.
The whole plant is aromatic. It is found on waste land, in hedgerows and on
the outskirts of woods. Essential oils is extracted by steam distillation
from the leaves, stalks and flowers. It is considered to be one of the best
skincare oils, offering relief from congested, oily and dry skin.
Appearance: Liquid
Aroma : : Pleasant, Fresh, Rose-resembling aroma.
Color : Green
Chemical constituents: Geranium oil has various chemical
compounds that include isomenthone, menthone, phellandrene, sabinene,
geraniol, linalol and citronellol
Extraction: It is extracted by steam distillation of
leaves and flowers.
Aromatherapy uses:
Geranium can be used in the treatment of inflammation which provides mild
as well as soothing effect. The action on the nervous system is pronounced
being a sedative with uplifting characteristics. Geranium is reputed to be
highly effective in assisting with pre-menstrual tension, excessive fluid
retention, menopausal problems, uterine and breast cancers. The therapeutic
properties of geranium oil are antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent,
cicatrisant, cytophylactic, diuretic, deodorant, haemostatic, styptic,
tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary.
It is a wonderful oil to use as a hormone balancer for P.M.T. and
menopause. It can also be used in a massage blend for painful periods and
sore breasts as it also has an analgesic effect.
It is a predominantly female oil.
Cosmetics and Toiletries:
It is used as a fragrance in all kinds of cosmetic products like soaps,
creams, perfumes etc. This oil is rejuvenating to the skin, treating acne,
bacterial and fungal infections and to treat wounds and scars. Geranium skin
preparations are gently astringent, opening pores and clearing oily
complexions. A tonifying cream containing geranium oil makes a nourishing
moisturizer and makeup remover. A good massage can be prepared by adding 2
drops of geranium and 3 drops of mandarin with 10ml or 1 desert spoon full
of vegetable oil for a skin conditioning blend for use to remove streatch
marks of broken capillaries.
Vaporisation/difusion : To create a harmonious and streanthening atmosphere
in times of hormonal imbalance, a few drops of geranium can be added on the
vaporiser.
Fragrance :
Perfumery, air fresheners, cosmetics and hygienics, skin disorders, eczema
and haemorrhoids. Geranium oil is also insect repellent and is good for
headaches, dental abscess, stings and bites. Geranium is used in the
following applications.
Burners and vaporizers
In vapor therapy geranium oil can be used to help relieve stress, mild
depression, PMS, anxiety and tension, menopausal problems and for general
energizing.
Blended massage oil or in the bath
Geranium oil can be used in blended massage oil, or diluted in a bath to
assist with PMS, depression, stress, anxiety and tension, fluid retention,
edema, eczema, shingles, cellulite, bruises, insect repellent, ringworm,
hemorrhoids and menstrual irregularities.
Blended in cream or lotion
As a constituent in a blended base cream, geranium oil can be used for
eczema, repelling insects, shingles, burns and scalds, cellulite, ringworm,
bruises and engorgement of the breasts It will help to balance the oil
production of the skin and help keep it supple, while the cicatrisant
properties ensure that it is helpful in wound healing, including burns,
wounds and ulcers.
Diluted in shampoo
Geranium oil can also be diluted in shampoo to help with head lice.
Flavor industry:
Geranium is used in flavoring food additives like preparation of jams,
jellies, cakes and puddings, drink and beverages, sauce and ice creams. It
is also used in dairy industry, dehydrated fish, vegetables and fruits, ice
cream flavor, malt extract like margarine, molasses, mushrooms, processed
fooods, poultry industry, organic foods, sea food, salt and sports drinks.
Extensively employed as a flavouring agent in most major food categories,
alcoholic and soft drinks. This oil would make a great addition to mouthwash
or gargles for sore or infected throats.