OIL of GERANIUM
GERANIUM - Pelargonium graveolens, P. capitatum, P. roseum, P. odoratissimum
These particular examples of the 700 or so known species produce a rose scented Geranium Oil often used as substitute for “attar of roses” and frequently marketed as “Rose Geranium”.
The Oil of Geranium is a colourless to yellow/green liquid obtained from the leaves of various species. It is used in perfumery, in medicine and is invaluable in aromatherapy for a wide range of benefits for the psyche. These range from cosmetic and physiological conditions to psychological states when in the latter, the gentle, feminine qualities in the temperament are encouraged.
It is particularly effective and attractive when used subtly as a body perfume and is exceedingly popular as a choice of personal perfume and toiletries for women. It has a relaxing effect used as a bath oil, helping to relieve pre-menstrual tension, fatigue and emotional stress. As a natural underarm deodorant it is a valued as an appropriate alternative to commercial suppressant deodorants that are now under suspicion as being one of the common causes in breast cancer. A skin test should be used to determines what strength of Geranium oil is used and of which particular selection of species. It is wise to always check for any possible allergic reaction before applying essential oils in massage.
Externally in massage it is applied for broken or fragile capillaries; nervous exhaustion, or for ringworm. Invaluable in cosmetic work and used in massage helps regulate the lymphatic and hormonal systems. Sometimes applied to relief facial neuralgia, back pain and shingles and research indicates that it stimulates the adrenal cortex. It is used in aromatherapy to relieve anxiety, stress and depression and is sometimes be used in direct application to scars and unbroken scar tissue from injury. Until certain of skin reaction, always dilute the application at first with a little carrier oil such as almond oil before using the essential oil direct. This particularly applies to children.
Geraniums can also be used as an ingredient in pot pourri and as an air freshener in the home.
Geranium Essential Oil when directly inhaled acts as an anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, and also antiseptic. Its influence is harmonizing and uplifting, helping to balance mind and body.
Inhale the scent directly from garden plants and crushed leaves or from the oils used in vaporizer, bath, or as a body perfume. Use of the natural fresh leaf or flower rarely requires any caution, but offers only delight particularly used in meditation.
In perfumery, all oils from the genus Pelargonium tend to blend harmoniously with lavender, patchouli, rose and sandalwood.
