Description

Join us on an aromatic journey as we explore the captivating wonders of Essential Oils and experience the fascinating allure of aromatherapy! Together, we will unlock a world of therapeutic benefits, delightful fragrances, and endless wellbeing possibilities… Ready to enchant your senses?

Essential oil of the month
Zom in…

We start with a remarkable plant, adorned with velvety leaves and an unmistakable rose-like fragrance: Geranium essential oil, a personal favourite, and a much used essential oil in the world of aromatherapy and perfumery.
Let’s Embark!

Geranium essential oil:
A friend of our skin

Geranium, scientifically known as Pelargonium graveolens (also referred to as Pelargonium asperum or Pelargonium roseum), belongs to the geraniaceae botanical family. While it originates from South Africa, this plant is now cultivated across the globe, with notable production in Reunion Island and Egypt. It is also cultivated in Madagascar and China. Among the various Pelargonium species, only two are distilled for their essential oil: Pelargonium asperum var. Bourbon and Pelargonium asperum var. Egypt. These 2 essential oils possess similar properties and can be used interchangeably, yet the bourbon variety is particularly favoured in the world of perfumery for its delicate aroma.

Distillation: The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of the leaves of the Geranium plant.

Aroma: Geranium holds a distinctively rosy-floral fragrance, delivering a delightful scent. Initially, the scent may appear robust, but as it unfolds, you will be greeted with floral, fruity, and sweet aromas with herbaceous undertones.

Geranium Essential Oil’s properties: A balancing oil for our mind and body:

The multitude of benefits that Geranium essential oil possesses span from physical to mental to emotional properties.

Physical property:

Perhaps one of the most notable property of Geranium EO is its remarkable action on our skin.
Here are some of them:

–Anti-fungal properties: the presence of Citronellol and Geraniol in the composition of Geranium grants this EO potent anti-fungal, antibacterial and antiseptic properties. These attributes enable it to combat skin yeasts and fungi, including Candida albicans and Trichophyton which causes skin mycoses.

–Haemostatic properties: Geranium EO possesses a distinctive ability to halt minor bleeding, thanks to its haemostatic properties! When applied to small wounds or cuts, it acts swiftly to staunch the flow of blood. What’s more, thanks to its antibacterial and astringent properties, Geranium EO promotes rapid skin healing and recovery.

–Astringent properties: this property makes Geranium EO a sought-after ingredient in skin care and cosmetology.
The mild astringent property of Geranium leads to many skin benefits: it aids in restoring skin tonicity, enhancing hydration, refining the texture and giving the skin a more radiant appearance.
Geranium EO is also used as a valuable aid for haemorrhoids and varicose vein issues.

–Balancing skin effects: If you have an oily skin, it is a wonderful essential oil to use due to its ability to regulate the skin’s production of sebum.
Geranium EO is often used for acne problems and for hair dandruff.
Not only is Geranium EO used for oily skin, it also caters to the dry and mature skin need, as it stimulates hyaluronic acid and collagen production!

–Mosquito Repellent Action: Embrace the summer season with confidence, as Geranium essential oil serves as a natural mosquito repellent. Its fragrant notes effectively keep those pesky insects at bay, ensuring peaceful indoor and outdoor experiences!

Effect on the central nervous system:

Geranium essential oil exerts unique balancing and harmonising effects. The presence of monoterpenols in Geranium’s gives this EO neurotonic properties and Geranium is often used to uplift the spirit and enhance the mood.
On another hand, the presence of esters particularly geranyl formate and citronellyl formate, confers to Geranium EO its calming properties. By acting on the parasympathetic system, Geranium EO induces a sense of relaxation, making it a valuable aid for stress and anxiety and sleep difficulties.

On the psycho-emotional sphere, Geranium is a soothing essential oil, that evens out fluctuating emotions. It is often seen as a “feminine oil”, helping to reconnect us with the environment and embrace harmony.

Precautions:
Geranium essential oil has a low toxicity profile, and can be used in children as young as three years old (at very low dosages and always diluted).
For children under three years of age, it is advisable to consult with an aromatherapist.
During the first trimester of pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid using Geranium oil, and later on, seek guidance from a qualified aromatherapist.

Route of administration of Geranium EO:

Various methods of application can diversify your experience and unleash the powerful properties of Geranium EO. Here are some ways to help you easily incorporate this exquisite essential oil into your everyday routine:

• Topical Application: Dilute Geranium essential oil in a carrier oil (Apricot oil, macadamia oil, Jojoba oil, etc) before applying it to the skin. It can be used for massaging large areas or specific ones for a more targeted result.

• Inhalation: Inhale the captivating aroma of Geranium by using an inhaler stick, or simply by placing a few drops on a handkerchief and let your senses be invigorated.

• Diffusion: Pour few drops of Geranium essential oil in a diffuser and feel the fragrance envelop you in a soothing embrace. To avoid overwhelming the senses, I advice mixing Geranium with other essential oils, for a more harmonious symphony of scents.

Final Recommendation:

When looking to buy Geranium essential oil, only choose a 100% pure and natural essential oil, preferably organic.
Pay close attention to labelling details to ensure the authenticity and quality of the oil you select. You can always ask our aromatherapy expert

Notes:

These recipes are intended for adult use and should not be applied to children, pregnant or lactating women. If you have any concerns or questions, please consult our aromatherapist.

The tips and advice provided in this article do not substitute medical diagnosis or treatment.

Remember to diffuse intermittently, typically 15 minutes per hour, rather than continuously. Avoid diffusing in the presence of asthmatics or children under six years old.

---

Dr. Nicole Bou Khalil,
Nicole Boukhalil is a Doctor of Pharmacy specialised in medicinal plants, phytotherapy and medical aromatherapy. She is a certified clinical aromatherapist level 3, the highest level of certification in the United States. Dr. Boukhalil also holds a master’s degree in Public Health and is certified in natural dermo-cosmetology.
With over 10 years of experience to her credit in aromatherapy, she is a trainer, a teacher, a formulator and an international speaker.
Dr. Boukhalil is an IFPA Trustee board member, the NAHA international director to Lebanon and the Airmid Institute ambassador to Lebanon.