Oil Of Geranium: The Refreshing Oil

By Olena Gill

The heat of the summer and glorious vacations is upon us - what more can I say - I love this season! And in this heat and sunshiny days it certainly is wonderful to have on hand some refreshing geranium oil - essential oil that cools and stimulates your whole body. Geranium is an interesting plant. Unlike some other essentials oils we have covered in previous issues, geranium can grow just about anywhere in the world, even in your own backyard.

But did you know that the geranium plant (pelargonium adorantissimum) first originated in Africa and was not introduced to Europe until 1690? There are only a few species that are used for the essential oil, primarily the ones that smell lemony. This species is rightly called the "lemon plant" or Geranium Robert. The essential oil itself is steam distilled from the leaves, stalks and flowers and is usually a light yellow-green in color, with a bitter taste.

Surprisingly, even though geranium is a refreshing and stimulating oil it has marvelous sedative properties. Invaluable in treating nervous tension and depression, it is one of my favorite oils, as it works wonders on the emotions. However, the sedative properties should not be confused with "sleeping" properties. Geranium oil is still quite a stimulating oil and should not be used late at night - so if you want to avoid lying awake and counting sheep, this essential oil is not the favored choice.

Many ancient cultures thought of geranium oil as quite exceptional in aiding the elmination of certain cancers and mending broken bones. As it is known currently, geranium is reputed to be highly effective in assisting with pre-menstrual tension, excessive fluid retention, menopausal problems, uterine and breast cancers, and especially in conditions with a fluctuating hormone balance. Women with the condition endometriosis take note - geranium is a vital component in treating this disorder. And it's sedative properties take effect here, allowing a person to relax and deal with any pain or discomfort as a result of some of these debilitating conditions.

Geranium has a delightful floral fragrance which makes it very pleasing to most people. Since it is a flowering oil, this essential oil is also an antiseptic. Ideally, geranium would make a great addition to mouthwash or gargles for sore or infected throats, but despite the flowery smell, it does have a bitter taste and for this reason, geranium can be avoided. However, if you are a brave soul, adding a drop of geranium oil to your daily gargle would certainly be beneficial all around.

If you're like myself and have combination skin, geranium essential oil is a favorite in balancing skin disorders or sluggish skin. Many people who have excessively dry (such as excema) or oily skin, report positive results when using geranium. Not only does geranium balance, but again sedates any inflamed tissues, as with shingles or burns, for example. Geranium blends very well with most other essential oils. Try having it in a massage or inhale it (one drop on a tissue or pillow is sufficient) for its refreshing qualities. And as always, never use this essential oil or any other, unless it is diluted in a base oil, lotion or gel.

Until next feature, continue to play with your essential oils and enjoy the smells! Olena Gill is an experienced aromatherapist and owner of The Mind-Body Connection Centre. If you have any questions regarding essential oils, call her at (250) 716-0677.