Geranium Essential Oil

Latin Pelargonium graveolens – Family Geraniaceae

Geranium is sometimes referred to as Pelargonium. The Geranium species is also sometimes referred to as "Lemon Plant" due to the fragrance of its leaves. There are over 700 varieties of geraniums, however the percentage of them that produce essential oil is small. The type of geraniums familiar to gardeners do not usually supply essential oil.

Bourbon Geranium oil (P. roseum) from the island of Réunion is said to be the best quality Geranium oil and is the Geranium oil that is sometimes referred to as "Rose Geranium" and "Geranium rosat" due to the rose-like quality of its aroma.

"A full body massage with geranium essential oil [properly diluted] a few days before menstruation may relieve pain by increasing blood and lymph circulation and easing fluid retention." –Encyclopedia of Healing Therapies

Oil Selection Guide

Color – Colorless (clear) to pale green to olive
Viscosity – Watery
Scent – Sweet, soft, earthy, green, flowery / floral, rosy-spice (P. roseum)
Perfume Aroma – Middle / top note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type – Plant
Parts Used – Leaves, stalks, flowers
Countries of Origin – Réunion, Madagascar, Egypt, Algeria, Morocco, Russia, China, France, United States
Extraction Method – Steam distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

citronellol, geraniol, citronellyl formate, sabinene, limonene, linalol, terpineol, isomenthone

Applications and Uses

Found in perfumery and fragrance in cosmetic products such as soaps and creams, as well as pharmaceutical products. Used commercially as food and drink flavoring. Geranium essential oil is also used in aromatherapy and as an insect repellent.

Geranium blends well with

Recipes and Ideas

Precautions / Contraindications

Avoid if pregnant.
Can cause irritation to sensitive skin.
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

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