Geranium Oil

Geranium is a plant that has species which flower annually, some flower, biennially while some do so perennially. Its English name is cranesbill which is because of the fruit capsule looks like a cranebill. It can be found in temperate areas of the world with the Mediterranean region being its main region. They are mainly grown for their beautiful flowers which come in shades of pink, blue, purple or white. They are mainly grown from propagation rather than from seeds.

It has a variety of smells depending on the species. They include: nutmeg, coconut and citrus while the Graveolens which produces the scent being commercially preferred. It has a strong, floral smell with a hint of mint. The oil is colorless but is slightly pale green and watery. The oil is obtained through steam distillation where the leaves and stalks are used.

Uses

1. On the body

v  It's known as the ‘women’s oil’ due to its benefits on menopausal and menstrual problems. Its vapor can be used to ease PMS and period problems. When added to the bath it eases fluid retention, stress, shingles, ringworms, menstrual irregularities and depression. You could also massage the oil on the lower back and abdomen.

v  It can be added to the body cream to relieve burns, breast engorgement, scalds, eczema and cellulite.

v  It helps to balance emotions such as stress and anxiety due to its ability to balance the hormone system. Put 4 drops on a piece of tissue and place it inside your pillow for a good night’s rest.

v  Use 8-10 drops in the bath to give an aphrodisiac effect.

v  It lowers the blood pressure due to its ability to increase urination. This gets rid of toxins one of them being sodium.

v  It has the ability to expel worms.

v  For chest problems use 5 drops in hot water and inhale, while for sore throat and tonsillitis use 2-5 drops.

2. On the hair

v  When diluted in shampoo it helps to get rid of head lice.

v  2-3 drops in 1 ounce carrier oil reduces dandruff.

3. On the skin

v  It aids in balancing the oil secretion of the skin and due to its healing properties help in the healing of ulcers, wounds and burns.

v  When used in addition to skin products it prevents skin sagging because it causes the constriction of the vessels thus helping prevent wrinkles from forming.

v  It aids in the dead cell being recycled thus allowing new cells to be created which aids to fade scars and spots and prevents the breakout of acne. It also promotes blood circulation below the skin surface thus promoting an even skin tone.

v  It can be added to the bath to give relief to skin ailments such as eczema.

It blends well with lavender, basil, lemon, jasmine, rosemary, orange and grapefruit which can be used as carrier oils.

Precautions

Even though geranium doesn’t cause any side effects but due to its ability to cause hormonal system balance it should be avoided during pregnancy.