Antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-tumoral, adrenal support, anti-inflammatory, astringent, antibacterial, antifungal, haemostatic (stops bleeding), and general tonic, Geranium was used by the ancestors as a remedy for wounds, tumors, and skin care. With her antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, Geranium essential oil is indicated in acne, dermatitis, eczema, wounds that are weeping and will not heal, bruises, grazes and cuts, light burns, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and ulcers, sore throats, tonsillitis, and neuralgia. The essential oil is one of the few that has been used successfully against the MRSA bacteria in laboratory studies (search Pub Med for more on 'geranium oil mrsa'). It is this asperum variety considered the most potent Geranium for its antimicrobial action, and has a wonderful aroma at the same time.

Often planted around the home for protection, beauty, and aroma, the Geranium is a familiar perennial shrub, that grows in stands between three four feet high in herb gardens. The shrub has pointed leaves that are serrated at the edges and hosts delightful pink to white flowers. The name Geranium derives from the Greek word geranos or ‘crane’ because the seed pods resemble the shape of crane’s bills.

The plants originated from South Africa, as well as Egypt, Madagascar, and Morocco, and were introduced to European countries such as Italy, Spain and France in the 17th century. Geranium essential oil was first cultivated for use in the French perfume industry for ‘rose geranium oil’. Although there are nearly 700 different varieties of Geranium only ten of these supply essential oil in viable quantities and only the scented varieties of Pelargonium are used for the essential oil. Best when steam distilled, Geranium essential oil is a great balancer. A middle note with oil that is clear to light green and has a light fresh scent. Use confidently in blends to balance the heaven and earth qualities of other oils.

Harmonic and balancing, Geranium can be used for spiritual practice and meditation as she assists one in connecting to the intuition and wisdom messages of the heart. This naturally lead to an increased capacity for intimate and open communication between body, mind, and spirit. Geranium essential oil has the quality of equalizing hormonal and emotional extremes. Known familiarly as the ‘flower of constancy’, Geranium helps to lift the spirits and helps to bring joy and happiness to one’s daily activity.

Known for its support in releasing negative and dis-harmonious memories, Geranium eases nervous tension and stress and is balancing to the emotions, thus lifting the spirits, and fostering a sense of peace and well-being. Indicated for those who feel the downward spiral of depression and for those whose lives are ‘lacking color’, the essential oil is celebrated for its ability to lift worry and anxiety. This clearing and dispelling of stagnant energy can be helpful for those who need the motivation and strength to bring their visions and projects into manifestation. These properties make it an ideal essential oil for stress-related disorders such as headaches, stomach aches, and menstrual cramps.

As both a sedative and uplifting oil, Geranium’s action on the nervous system is pronounced. Similar to both Basil and Rosemary, Geranium is a stimulant of the adrenal cortex, whose hormones are essentially of a balancing nature. Consequently it is indicated when the hormonal system needs balancing. This harmonizing effect on the emotions assists in reducing mood swings, and is helpful in cases of PMS and menopausal discomfort.

Connected to the feminine influence of the planet Venus, Geranium has a dynamic flowing energy that helps to balance the water in the body. As a kidney tonic, Geranium assists with releasing fluid retention and in this way is useful for cellulite therapies. Additionally Geranium helps with estrogen production and relieves fluid retention that may occur in some women prior to their moon cycle. Geranium helps regulate estrogen production and relieves edema (fluid retention) that may occur in some women prior to their moon cycle. When used massaged into the breast tissue, it assists in reducing swelling and engorgement thus making it a good remedy for mastitis.

As well as having a balancing effect on the mind, this uplifting essential oil has a great all-over balancing property also extends to the skin, where it helps to create balance between oily and dry skin. An astringent that is not dying, Geranium is soothing to the mucus membranes of the skin. Balancing the sebum production (the fatty acid secretions in the sebaceous glands) of the skin, Geranium helps to cleanse the skin as well as to restore balance, tone, and suppleness.

Other uses include lice and mosquito repellent, and the clearing of ringworms. There is some evidence indicating that Geranium essential oil may be helpful in cases of neuralgia.

Geranium’s gentle yin characteristics lend it blending well with nearly all other essential oils including eucalyptus, lavender, clary sage, rose, lime, orange frankincense, grapefruit, and ylang ylang. Diffuse and use topically.

Use caution to avoid use with dermatitis in hypersensitive persons. Avoid during pregnancy.