Aromatherapy A-Z: Geranium

Of over 700 varieties of geranium, only a few-Pelargonium roseum, Pelargonium graveolens, Pelargonium odorantissimum and Pelargonium radula-produce essential oils. The entire plant, including leaves, stalks and flowers, is steam-distilled to produce a pale greenish yellow oil with a green sweet scent that is sometimes rosy, sometimes minty.

Originally native to southern Africa, these members of the Geraniaceae family now flourish in many countries.

China, Egypt, Morocco, Russia and the island of Réunion, in the southwestern Indian Ocean, specialize in the commercial cultivation of geraniums. Many authorities believe the world's finest geranium oil comes from Réunion.

Beauty Benefits

Geranium oil helps almost any skin type or skin condition. Its stimulating action promotes the regeneration of skin cells and speeds the healing of acne and blemishes. It also soothes dry sensitive skin. Geranium oil imparts a healthy glow to the complexion, making the skin appear radiant and more youthful. It improves the appearance of broken capillaries and varicose veins. Because it stimulates both the lymphatic and circulatory systems, geranium oil helps to combat the kind of sluggish circulation and waste accumulation present with cellulite, and it clears skin that is blemished or dull and dry as a result of the accumulation of toxins. Geranium oil also helps control excessive oiliness of the skin.

Emotional Effects

Inhaling geranium oil eases the anxiety and tension of mentally and physically demanding days. Like most flower oils, geranium oil acts as an antidepressant. Its uplifting effect frees the mind from negative or depressing thoughts. Almost any stress-related condition responds to a few whiffs of geranium oil. As an added bonus, geranium oil can stimulate feelings of sensuality.

Geranium oil encourages self-expression, improves communication and helps overcome the fear of speaking. It promotes harmony between the sexes and balances aggressive and passive tendencies. Some people respond to geranium oil's sedative, somewhat analgesic effect; others say it stimulates them. For most people, it simultaneously calms and energizes.

Reprinted from Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty by Roberta Wilson with permission of Avery Books, a member of Penguin Putnam Inc. Copyright © 1995 by Roberta Wilson.

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