Widely described as ‘uplifting’, Geranium Essential Oil has a youthful, fresh, floral fragrance and is often used in the beauty industry for both cosmetics and perfumes. It is believed to be anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and astringent, making it ideal for helping with skin disorders such as acne. It’s a bit of an all rounder when it comes to skin care, as it is great for oily skin (being an astringent), but is also gentle and nourishing so can be used with equal success on dry skin.
The oil is what is known as a cicatrizant, which basically means it aids healing. Many claim it can reduce the appearance of old scars and that using after an injury can help to prevent new scarring, and that if used regularly in a massage oil it can approve the appearance of cellulite.
Due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterials qualities, using a shampoo with added Geranium oil can help combat an itchy, flaky scalp and leave your hair with a lovely shine!
Using a bath oil or wash containing geranium essential oil can help with reducing swelling of the legs and feet after a hard day, as well as leave your skin feeling refreshed and lifting your mood.
Geranium oil has also been used to help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with chemotherapy, and there are trials now being performed using one of the components (citronellol) to help combat Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and ALS. There are also links to it being helpful with menopausal hot flushes.
Its anti-fungal elements mean it can help relieve ailments such as Athlete’s Foot, and it can also be used as a deodoriser due to being antibacterial.
It is known for its calming, stress-reducing qualities and therefore can be used to help combat depression, anxiety, irritability, and stress, and its uplifting fragrance is a great stimulant for mental cognitivity.
Geranium oil is thought to speed the process of coagulation and together with its antiseptic qualities, means it is suitable to use when attending to minor cuts and injuries.
Its beautiful, sweet smell isn’t appreciated quite as much by insects, so use a geranium infused candle or diffuse to help keep the mozzies and flies away!
Since aromatherapy is a complementary therapy, if you have any concerns about your health or are already taking any medication, it’s always advisable to consult your doctor.
Don’t apply undiluted essential oils to the skin, or ingest the oils. Women who are pregnant, and children, should take the advice of a doctor before using any aromatherapy treatment.