Geranium Oil Benefits, Side Effects, and Uses on Your Skin and More (2023)

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Geranium essential oil is derived by steam distillation of the leaves of Pelargonium graveolens, a plant species native to South Africa. According to folklore, it was used for a wide range of health conditions.

Geranium oil is grown in many regions, including Europe and Asia. There are many varieties and strains of the pink flower with a fresh, floral fragrance. Each variety differs in scent, but is near-identical in terms of composition, benefits, and uses.

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Geranium oil is widely used as an ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics. The essential oil is also used in aromatherapy to treat a number of health conditions. In aromatherapy, essential oils are inhaled using a diffuser, or diluted with carrier oils and applied to the skin for soothing benefits.

Researchers have examined the benefits of geranium essential oil in several human and animal studies. There’s also anecdotal evidence about its benefits. It’s thought to have antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties.

Geranium essential oil has been well researched for some conditions, but is less researched for others. Make sure to check with a doctor before using it, and don’t substitute geranium essential oil for a prescribed medication or treatment.

Geranium oil may be beneficial for the following conditions:

Acne, dermatitis, and inflammatory skin conditions

A 2017 review of studies on geranium essential oil indicated that its antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties make it beneficial for reducing acne breakouts, skin irritation, and skin infections when applied topically.

Geranium essential oil’s anti-inflammatory properties also make it beneficial for a number of inflammatory conditions, including those affecting skin.

One study found that geranium essential oil shows promise as a potential anti-inflammatory medication with few side effects.

Edema

An animal study indicated that geranium essential oil’s anti-inflammatory qualities may make it beneficial for leg and foot swelling caused by edema.

Anecdotal evidence indicates that adding geranium essential oil to bath water may be a good way to treat this condition. More research is needed to investigate the effects of geranium essential oil on edema.

Nasal vestibulitis

Nasal vestibulitis is an uncomfortable condition associated with cancer drug treatment.

A small observational study and anecdotal evidence suggests geranium essential oil may ease nasal symptoms caused by this condition, such as bleeding, scabbing, pain, dryness, and sores.

For the study, geranium essential oil was mixed with sesame oil and used as a nasal spray in women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Infection

Multiple studies suggest geranium essential oil may fight off bacterial infections. Geranium essential oil has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, making it effective against multiple bacterial strains.

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One study found that geranium essential oil was about as effective as amoxicillin at fighting bacterial strains, such as Staphylococcus aureus. The same study found that it was not effective at fighting Listeria monocytogenes, a different bacterial strain.

Neurodegenerative disease

Certain neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are associated with varying degrees of neuroinflammation.

A study found that high concentrations of citronellol, a component of geranium essential oil, inhibited nitric oxide production, reducing inflammation and cell death in the brain.

According to researchers, geranium essential oil might have benefits for people with neurodegenerative diseases that include neuroinflammation.

Menopause and perimenopause

A study found that aromatherapy with geranium essential oil was beneficial at stimulating secretion of salivary estrogen.

Researchers theorized that geranium essential oil might be of value for women experiencing reduced estrogen and health-related symptoms caused by menopause and perimenopause.

Stress, anxiety, and depression

Aromatherapy is becoming more and more mainstream, even in hospital settings. A randomized, clinical trial of women in labor for the first time found that inhaled geranium essential oil had a calming effect and was able to reduce the anxiety associated with first-stage labor.

Anecdotal evidence also suggests geranium essential oil may promote relaxation and alleviate depressive mood. One animal study on mice analyzed the calming, antidepressive effects of the Reunion geranium (Pelargonium roseum willd) essential oil strain, and found it to be effective for reducing stress.

Shingles pain

Shingles often result in postherpetic neuralgia, a very painful condition affecting the nerve fibers and skin that run along a nerve.

One study found that topical application of geranium oil significantly reduced postherpetic neuralgia pain within minutes of application. These effects were temporary, and required reapplication as needed.

Allergies

According to one preliminary study, geranium essential oil’s citronellol content makes it potentially effective for reducing allergic reactions. However, more study is needed.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that topical use may reduce itching caused by allergic reactions. This is because of the anti-inflammatory action of this essential oil.

Wound care

Anecdotal evidence suggests that geranium essential oil may be beneficial for stopping minor wounds from bleeding. It may do this by speeding up coagulation, and by causing blood vessels to contract. It’s antibacterial and antiseptic properties are also beneficial for healing.

Diabetes

Geranium essential oil has long been used in Tunisia as a folk remedy treatment to reduce hyperglycemia.

An animal study found that daily, oral administration significantly reduced glucose levels in rats. Researchers suggested that geranium essential oil may be beneficial for alleviating high blood sugar in people with diabetes, but also indicated that further study is needed.

Humans should not consume geranium essential oil. Research in humans is still needed, but aromatherapy added to a diffuser or applied topically might have the same effect.

(Video) GERANIUM ESSENTIAL OIL benefits & uses - Clinical Aromatherapy

Geranium essential oil and rose geranium essential oil come from different varieties of the Pelargonium graveolens plant species.

They have almost identical compositions and properties, making them equally beneficial for health. Rose geranium essential oil has a slightly more floral scent, which is similar to that of roses.

Geranium essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil, such as sesame oil, and used topically on the skin. You can use it as a spot treatment for acne or itchy skin, or as a massage oil.

Some carrier oils may cause an allergic reaction when applied to the skin. Prior to using, do a patch test on a small area to make sure it doesn’t cause a reaction.

When diluting essential oils with a carrier oil, it’s important to follow these dilution guidelines. For adults, start by mixing 15 drops of essential oil per 6 teaspoons of carrier oil. This will equal a 2.5 percent dilution. For children, 3 to 6 drops of essential oil per 6 teaspoons of carrier oil is a safe amount.

As an aromatherapy treatment, you can dab geranium oil on paper towels, or on cloth you don’t mind staining. You can also place it in a room diffuser, to scent a large space. There are also personal-use diffusers, such as aroma inhaler sticks, that you can fill with oil and breathe in on-the-go.

Essential oils should never be swallowed.

Geranium oil side effects

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When used correctly, geranium oil is considered safe for most people to use. Some people may experience a rash or burning sensation when using it on the skin. Never use any essential oil on skin unless it’s diluted with a carrier oil.

Small amounts of geranium oil are sometimes added to baked goods, and it is fine to ingest small quantities. The effects of ingesting large quantities of geranium oil are not known.

You can buy rose geranium oil anywhere you find essential oils, such as health food stores and holistic pharmaceutical shops. Check out these products online.

If you have several weeks to spare, you can make geranium oil at home:

  1. Snip about 12 ounces of rose geranium leaves off the plant.
  2. Fill a small, clear glass jar around halfway up with olive or sesame oil and submerge the leaves, covering them completely.
  3. Seal the jar tightly and place on a sunny windowsill for a week.
  4. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth into a different glass jar. Leave the geranium leaves behind.
  5. Add an additional supply of fresh geranium leaves into the oil.
  6. Seal the new jar and again leave it on a sunny windowsill for one week.
  7. Continue these steps each week for an additional three weeks (total of five weeks).
  8. Pour the essential oil into a bottle that can be kept tightly closed. Keep it in a cool, dry place and use within one year’s time.

There are many essential oils that contain health benefits that you can try, based on the specific condition you wish to treat. Some essential oils you may wish to try include:

  • lavender for depression, anxiety, acne, and skin irritation
  • chamomile for sore muscles, pain, and swelling
  • peppermint oil or clary sage for relief of menopausal symptoms

Takeaway

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Geranium essential oil has been used to treat health conditions for centuries. There is scientific data indicating that it may be beneficial for a number of conditions, such as anxiety, depression, infection, and pain management. It’s thought to have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Always check with a doctor before using an essential oil, and don’t substitute an essential oil for a prescribed treatment.

FAQs

What are the side effects of geranium oil for skin? ›

Rose geranium oil is usually applied to the skin. Some people can develop a rash or burning sensation when it is applied to the skin. Rose geranium oil can also cause eye irritation if applied to the face.

Can I use geranium oil directly on skin? ›

Geranium essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil, such as sesame oil, and used topically on the skin. You can use it as a spot treatment for acne or itchy skin, or as a massage oil.

Can I use geranium on my face? ›

Calm: Geranium oil is highly soothing when applied to your complexion. Used topically, its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can purify and soothe your skin. “It even provides your skin with a dose of radiance”, says De Couic Marinier.

What are the effects of geranium oil? ›

Used in aromatherapy applications, Geranium Essential Oil reduces feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, fatigue, and tension, enhances concentration, improves cognitive function, and balances the emotions as well as the hormones.

Is geranium oil good for wrinkles? ›

Geranium oil's astringent effect allows skin tissues to tighten and contract, significantly reducing the appearance of wrinkles. It also has antioxidant effects to slow down skin aging, helping you look younger. This oil is such a simple addition to your skin care rituals.

What are the disadvantages of geraniums? ›

Weather Sensitivity

Zonal geraniums don't tolerate high humidity and might have trouble growing or blooming in such conditions. They also do poorly in places with frequent, heavy rainfall. If you live in a place with such conditions, you'll likely have problems growing zonal geraniums.

Does geranium oil grow hair? ›

Since geranium balances secretions around the hair follicles, it's an effective agent for hair growth." While there isn't much research on geranium's effects on hair growth, a 2017 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found it did promote hair growth.

Is geranium oil good for under eyes? ›

Extracted from the Geranium flowers, most commonly found in Africa, the essential oil works wonder to lighten the under eye dark circles. It reduces puffiness or fine lines under the eyes and expels water that causes the puffiness.

Which oil is best for eye wrinkles? ›

Castor oil can be safely used around and near your eyes. Many people report it helps minimize and reduce wrinkles in the eye area.

What are the medicinal uses of geranium? ›

In folk medicine geranium oil has been used as a pain reliever, sedative, antimicrobial, antifungal and to relieve spasms. Geranium has also been used to help with nervous tension and symptoms of menopause. Other folk uses include treatment of wounds, fever reduction, hemorrhoids, gonorrhea,5 inflammation and diarrhea.

What is the usage of geranium oil? ›

Used as a beautifying agent in Ancient Egyptian times, Geranium essential oil is extracted from the entire geranium plant. The uses and benefits of this beautiful plant are highly versatile and are used to boost the appearance of skin and hair. Geraniums are valued in the perfume industry for their floral scent.

What oils help with dark spots? ›

Lemon Oil - is excellent for lightening dark spots on the skin, due to its bleaching properties. Rose Oil - Rose oil is antibacterial, antiviral, and excellent for clearing cases of acne. Sandalwood Oil - its anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory qualities make sandalwood perfect for hyperpigmentation.

What can I mix geranium oil with? ›

Geranium oil blends well with peppermint, juniper, neroli, or chamomile oils.
  • Blends Well With. Bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, clove, cypress, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, juniper, lemon, mandarin, neroli, palmarosa, patchouli, peppermint, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, and ylang ylang.
  • Packaging. 1/2 oz. ...
  • Precautions.

How poisonous is geranium? ›

These plants are known as pelargoniums and contain small amounts of the toxic compounds geraniol and linalool. These substances are not toxic to humans, and in fact, scented geraniums have been used in cakes, jams, and teas for centuries.

Is geranium oil anti fungal? ›

Geranium and melissa oils exhibited highest antifungal potential. Both commercial oils contain geraniol and citronellol, which are antifungal [34] and likely responsible for the similar antifungal activity of these oils (p > 0.90).

What oil makes your skin look younger? ›

Argan Oil. Argan oil is made up of 80 percent fatty acids that help fight free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and lead to premature skin aging. Plus, it contains vitamins A and E that help reduce wrinkles, age spots, fine lines, and sagging skin.

What essential oil is good for sagging skin? ›

The best oils for to help with skin elasticity and tightness include Jasmine, Lemon, Lime, Sandalwood, Lavender, Rose, Ylang ylang, Bergamot, Frankincense, Geranium, Neroli, and Grapefruit oils.

Does geranium oil increase estrogen? ›

The in vitro study examined the estrogenic effects of a pessary containing Geranium and Palmarosa oils and concluded that it increased estrogen levels.

Can you be allergic to geranium? ›

Allergy: Allergic contact dermatitis has been reported most commonly to geranium oil but also in growers/gardeners (deadheading). Has been reported to cause contact dermatitis from a leg ulcer dressing.

What is the common name for geranium? ›

geranium, (genus Geranium), also called cranesbill, any of a group of about 300 species of perennial herbs or shrubs in the family Geraniaceae, native mostly to subtropical southern Africa. Geraniums are among the most popular of bedding and greenhouse plants.

What hormones affect geraniums? ›

Ethylene is a hormone that induces ripening and senescence of plant parts, such as leaves, flowers and fruits. Cuttings are wounded during harvesting, which results in ethylene production.

Which oil makes hair grow thicker and faster? ›

Castor oil is often recommended if you wish to grow your hair longer quickly. But that's not the only benefit it has. Castor oil is immensely nourishing and makes hair soft and shiny. It helps in better blood circulation which helps the hair grow faster.

What oil makes your hair grow the most? ›

  • Castor oil. The best oil for hair growth should be rich in vitamin E, proteins and minerals to work its wonders on your hair. ...
  • Tea tree oil. Another effective hair growth oil is tea tree oil thanks to its antimicrobial and cleansing properties. ...
  • Bringharaj oil. ...
  • Onion oil. ...
  • Coconut oil. ...
  • Argan oil. ...
  • Olive oil. ...
  • Rosemary oil.
Nov 8, 2022

What oils make your hair grow super fast? ›

A number of essential oils including lavender, rosemary, thyme, and cedarwood are effective in boosting hair growth. Some carrier oils like jojoba oil, coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil, castor oil, etc. can also be used to improve hair growth. So use them the right way to start noticing new strands of hair!

Is geranium oil good for hair loss? ›

Prevents Hair Loss

But because Geranium is full of amino acids, its flower extract can help decrease hair loss by nourishing the hair with amino acids. All you need do is mix Geranium essential oil and a carrier oil, like Jojoba Oil for maximum absorption, then apply on the affected area.

What oil has the most collagen? ›

Avocado oil is a natural antioxidant. The oil also seems to have anti-inflammatory effects. When looking for avocado oil, look for oil made from the seeds. They're said to have the most collagen-boosting effects.

What oils are rich in collagen? ›

The essential oils for collagen growth are carrot seed, lemon, frankincense, geranium, and neroli. These oils are extremely beneficial for a healthy skin cells renewal. Carrot seed essential oil is rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant which repairs damaged tissue and rebuilds the collagen under the skin.

What helps aging skin on eyes? ›

7 Tips to Minimize the Aging Effects in the Eye Area
  1. Decrease Sun Exposure and Tanning. ...
  2. Quit Smoking. ...
  3. Consider a Humidifier. ...
  4. Take Care with Cosmetics Around the Eye Area. ...
  5. Decrease Stress Levels. ...
  6. Hydrate and Eat Clean. ...
  7. Use an Effective Eye Cream.

What bugs does geranium oil repel? ›

Geraniol, the active ingredient in geranium oil, has been proven effective in repelling a wide variety of insects, including mosquitoes, flies, cockroaches, ants, fleas, gnats, and ticks.

What is good for aging dark spots? ›

Age spot treatments include:
  • Medications. Applying prescription bleaching creams (hydroquinone) alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and a mild steroid might gradually fade the spots over several months. ...
  • Laser and intense pulsed light. ...
  • Freezing (cryotherapy). ...
  • Dermabrasion. ...
  • Microdermabrasion. ...
  • Chemical peel.
Feb 11, 2022

What Vitamin gets rid of dark age spots? ›

Vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) is especially fantastic at treating age spots on the face because it depigments or reduces melanin on the skin—thereby removing dark spots.

What fades dark spots naturally? ›

Read more to know a few remedies to get rid of dark spots / Dark Spots and to make your skin smooth and soft.
  • Drink Plenty Of Water. Drinking plenty of water can do wonders to your skin. ...
  • Lemon Juice And Yogurt Face Mask. We all know that lemons have a number of benefits. ...
  • Buttermilk. ...
  • Aloe Vera. ...
  • Tomatoes. ...
  • Papaya. ...
  • Honey.
Dec 24, 2019

What does geranium oil do for face? ›

Because geranium oil is a natural anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory oil, it actively boosts skin's health and natural glow. By helping skin stay conditioned, and soothing irritated or breakout prone skin, it fights against skin affected by harsh weather conditions or prone to acne.

What is the price of geranium oil today? ›

₹339.00 FREE Delivery.

Does geranium oil attract bugs? ›

Geranium oil contains geraniol, which is proven to be an effective and safe insect repellent for many types of insects, including biting ones. This essential oil is effective against both flying and crawling insects including mosquitoes, ticks, biting midges, ants, and more.

Is geranium a blood thinner? ›

The Essential Oil of Geranium has a lot to offer HHT patients. Geranium Oil can stop bleeding in two ways: it causes blood vessels to contract and helps stop blood flow and it speeds up coagulation or clotting of blood.

Is geranium good for anxiety? ›

Apart from its pleasant aroma, geranium essential oil has anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, sedative, anxiety-reducing, and muscle-relaxing properties. It also facilitates blood circulation and eases breathing.

Can you drink geranium water? ›

Fresh geranium can also be made into tea by steeping ¼ cup of finely chopped flowers and leaves with one cup of boiling hot water. Some people believe that sipping geranium tea can help ease indigestion.

What oils get rid of fungus? ›

Currently, the main essential oils studied for their antifungal activity are thyme oil, rich in thymol and carvacrol, tea tree oil rich in terpenes, and peppermint or clove oil [19], although many others have also been shown to be effective against fungi.

What is the most powerful antifungal essential oil? ›

1. Tea tree essential oil. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is one of the most well-known and widely used antifungal essential oils. It has a long history of use in Australia for treating skin conditions and is now popular all over the world.

Is geranium good for cellulite? ›

An effective antiseptic, tonic and diuretic, Geranium is an essential oil of choice when it comes to preventing and improving the appearance of cellulite. It can effectively remove dead cells, improve skin tone and complexion, as well as promoting the regeneration of skin cells. It is also great for balancing hormones!

Is geranium oil bad for sensitive skin? ›

Geranium essential oil is well regarded for its ability to balance the skin. It is highly effective for dry, sensitive or menopausal skin, right through to oil-rich and problematic complexions due to its chemical composition boasting an array of anti-inflammatory, anti-septic and cicatrisant benefits.

Can essential oils cause skin damage? ›

The most common allergic reaction to an essential oil is contact dermatitis — an itchy, red rash on your skin typically where the oil has been applied. In some cases, the rash may also blister or peel. The reaction may not always be immediate, you may not develop symptoms for several hours, or even days.

Which geranium essential oil is best for skin? ›

Rose geranium oil is known for its dermatological use for the treatment of aging, wrinkled and/or dry skin. (4) It has the power to minimize the look of wrinkles because it tightens facial skin and slows down the effects of aging. Add two drops of geranium oil to your face lotion and apply it twice daily.

Why do dermatologists not like essential oils? ›

Essential oils, even in small dosages formulated in skincare products, can be extremely irritating to your skin, causing redness, sensitivity, and breakouts.

What essential oils are good for aging skin? ›

The 9 Best Anti-Aging Essential Oils to Include in Your Skincare...
  • Rosemary. Rosemary is a highly popular herb that's primarily used because of the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that it has. ...
  • Lemon. ...
  • Clary Sage. ...
  • Sandalwood. ...
  • Lavender. ...
  • Jojoba. ...
  • Vitamin E Oil. ...
  • Avocado Oil.
Dec 7, 2020

What happens if you apply essential oil directly to skin? ›

Essential oils have the potential to aggravate the skin. Avoid using essential oils near sensitive areas such as the eyes, ears, and mouth. Do not apply them to broken, inflamed, or irritated skin. You can look out for potential skin allergies by doing a patch test before using any carrier or essential oil.

What is the safest essential oil for skin? ›

The following oils are considered safe for all skin types:
  • lavender.
  • frankincense.
  • sandalwood.
Jul 8, 2019

How do you use geranium oil for hormones? ›

Because of this, improving the balance of hormones and neurotransmitters can help alleviate the symptoms of PMS and other female hormone issues. A simple aromatherapy formula is 2 drops of clary sage oil, 1 drop of geranium oil and 1 drop of ylang ylang oil.

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