Geranium oil
Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil has been used as far back in history as ancient Egypt; the Egyptians used Geranium oil against cancerous tumors. Geranium was brought to Europe in the late 17th century and became popular during the Victorian era; fresh leaves of Geranium were placed at formal dining tables and used as finger bowls. In the Victorian parlor, the potted Rose Geranium plant was placed on tables, where a fresh sprig could be obtained.
Origins and Characteristics of Geranium
Geranium was originally a native of South Africa but today it is widely cultivated in Europe, Central America, Egypt, Russia, Japan and the Congo. The main producers of Geranium oil are Egypt, Russia and Reunion (Bourbon Geranium). Geranium is a perennial shrub which grows up to three feet in height; it has small, pink flowers and pointy, serrated-edged leaves.
Different Species of Geranium
There are over 700 varieties of cultivated Geranium and Pelargonium plants; many are grown for ornamental purposes in the garden. Pelargonium graveolens is the main species cultivated for essential oil; essential oils may differ in properties depending from which country the plant originated. There is also an essential oil called Bulgarian Geranium oil which is, in fact, not from the Pelargonium species and is different to that of Pelargonium graveolens.
Rose Oil or Geranium Oil?
Due to its rose-like scent, Geranium is often confused with Rose (Rosa damascena) essential oil; in fact, Geranium is often used to adulterate Rose oil. The essential oil of Rose Geranium is also often confused with that of Pelargonium graveolens; Rose Geranium oil is actually Pelargonium graveolens essential oil with a minute percentage of Rose essential oil added to it.
Properties of Geranium Oil in Aromatherapy
Geranium essential oil is obtained from the steam distillation of the leaves; both Geraniums and Pelargoniums belong to the Geraniaceae plant family. The essential oil of Geranium is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, relaxing, decongestant, anti-bacterial, anti-depressant, balancing and uplifting. It is commonly used for childhood ailments such as chicken pox, measles and mumps.