Geranium oil has an important place in aromatherapy. It helps to balance the mind and steady the emotions, stimulates the adrenal cortex, and normalizes the hormonal system. This essential oil is a watery, almost colourless oil that sometimes has a light green tinge to it.
Geranium oil has been used throughout history. Originating from Africa, the plant was introduced to Europe in the seventeenth century. Today it is grown quite successfully in gardens all over the world. Of the over 700 species of the plant, only a handful are used for the extraction of oil. Most of it comes from South Africa, Madagascar, Egypt, and the Reunion islands.
Geranium oil has rejuvenating properties, and is a particularly refreshing and stimulating oil. While it also has sedative properties, it is not a sleeping oil. It should not be used at night as it will not allow one to sleep, having the opposite effect.
This oil is used in the treatment of skin problems, as it is antifungal in nature and has antiseptic properties. Because of this, it is very useful in healing even open cuts and wounds. It can be applied to the skin (along with a carrier oil) to treat very dry skin (eczema) or very oily skin. It helps to restore the balance of the skin. It can also be used to treat shingles (caused by the chicken pox virus) to ease itching and make sure that scarring does not appear. It has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of rheumatism, tonsillitis, and poor circulation.
Since geranium has mild analgesic properties, many aromatherapists suggest its use to treat problems related to the nervous system. It calms the mind and reduces stress, which in itself can reduce many related problems. Since it restores the hormone levels, it can be used to treat pre-menstrual tension, fluid retention, and menopausal problems. A word of caution, though, because of this reason, it should not be used by women during pregnancy.
Geranium’s antiseptic properties can be harnessed to treat sore of infected throats. Unfortunately, while the oil has a flowery, lemony smell, it also tastes bitter.
One of the best things about Geranium oil is that it mixes very well with other essential oils and carrier oils. A few drops can even be placed on a handkerchief, which can then be inhaled throughout the day. Keep in mind that it should not be used on the body directly, but only when mixed in a base oil, gel, or l