Pelargonium
graveolens
The essential oil is steam
distilled from the leaves and
flowers. Geranium Bourbon,
often called Rose Geranium
because of its rose like
aroma. Production comes
mainly from France.
It is a hairy, perennial
shrub, often used in
hedgerows, and is about 1
metre high, with pointed
leaves, serrated at the edges
and with pinkish –
white flowers.
The essential oil is a
greenish-yellow colour, light
and with a strong middle note
aroma.
Common uses and
therapeutic values include,
astringent, haemostatic,
diuretic, antiseptic, anti-
depressant, tonic, antibiotic,
anti-spasmodic and anti
infectious.
It is an uplifting oil and
has a great balancing effect.
This balance extends to the
skin where it helps balance
oily and dry skin. It also
extends to emotions where it
helps alleviate feelings of
stress and anxiety.
The strong smell is good
at warding off mosquitoes and
head lice. Geranium Bourbon
is also used to relieve fluid
retention and help fight
cellulite.
The plants originated in
South Africa, Madagascar,
Egypt and Morocco and were
introduced into Italy, Spain
and France in the seventeenth
century.
Geranium oil is not
recorded as indicating any
side effects and is generally
non toxic, non irritant and non
sensitising. It can cause
sensitivity in some people and
due to the fact that it balances
the hormonal system it should
be avoided during pregnancy.
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