History

There is considerable confusion when it comes to identifying Geraniums. The genus of the plant from which Geranium essential oil comes from is Pelargonium. I will therefore use Geranium in this entry when describing the general variety of plants we have come to know as “Geraniums.”

Geraniums are native to South Africa. Low-maintenance and bursting with color, the Geranium has been used since antiquity for beauty, medicine, and even for food. It is especially appreciated for its long blooming season that starts in spring and can last into the fall. Geraniums are drought-resistant, thriving on sunny climates and moderate watering. They also do very well in pots so long as they are well-drained. But keep in mind that some varieties stop blooming in very hot weather. This condition is known as “heat check.” They resume blooming when temperature goes down. Additionally, they don’t do well in cold, and can only take minor frosts.

Geraniums have been used since antiquity. For example, there is evidence that the ancient Egyptians used Geranium oil as part of their beauty regimens. They were brought to Europe in the 1600s, and have since spread all over the world. There now exists hundreds of Geranium species of different colors and shapes, but the most distinctive feature that most Geranium species have are their heavily scented leaves.

The flowers and the leaves are edible. Use fresh leaves to flavor jelly and iced drinks, use dried leaves in sachets and potpourri. They can flavor sugar, iced tea, and lemonades. Or they can just be eaten fresh. Victorians used to place fresh Geranium leaves and flowers at the dining table both as decorative pieces and to be consumed if desired.

Geraniums were also used for medicinal purposes. Its roots were used by the indigenous people of South Africa to treat respiratory problems, and its essential oil helps alleviate depression, stress, and other maladies. Additionally, some types of Geraniums (especially those that have citrus-like aromas) act as natural insect repellents.

But before you go crazy with the Geraniums, you should know that according to the ASPCA, Geraniums are toxic to dogs and cats. So please keep your geraniums out of the reach of your pets.

• Bergamot
• Carrot Seed
• Citronella
• Fennel
• Lavender
• Lemon
• Lemongrass
• Marjoram
• Neroli
• Blood Orange
• Palmarosa
• Patchouli
• Peppermint
• Rose
• [Australian] Sandalwood
• Ylang Ylang

• Aids detox
• Balances emotions: is both calming and uplifting
• Cooling: helps reduce hot flashes
• Mild analgesic
• Skin and scalp toner: balances secretion of sebum & helps with dandruff
• Antiseptic 
• Anti-inflammatory: works especially well on all skin types, reducing redness and acne
• Astringent
• Skin renewal: reduces appearance of wrinkles, scars, blemishes
• Supports women’s health: endometriosis, menopause, etc
• Eases urinary tract infections
• Mild diuretic: detox oil
• Muscle toning: helps skin and muscles from sagging
• Wound cure: speeds healing, stops bleeding, antiseptic
• Deters dust mites

May cause irritation to sensitive skin

Do not ingest, especially if you are taking medication. It could result in negative interactions.