Rose Geranium belongs to the Geranium family and to the Pelargonium genus in particular. While the Geraniums in the Geraniaceae family are known as the “True Geraniums,” the Pelargonium group of plants is commonly referred to as the “Scented Geraniums,” which have fragrances that can be categorized as follows:
| Category | Can smell like… |
| Rosy | Rose |
| Citrusy | Orange, Lemon, Lime |
| Fruity | Strawberry, Apricot, Apple, Coconut |
| Nutty | Filbert |
| Minty | Peppermint, Camphor |
| Pungent | Nutmeg, Spice, Ginger |
Geranium is identified by the botanical name Pelargonium graveolens and Rose Geranium’s specific botanical name is Pelargonium graveolens var. roseum. Despite sharing virtually all the same qualities, Rose Geranium is the type most often preferred for its scent, as it is reputed to emit the strongest, most superior notes of Rose, the floral nuance that contributes to its uplifting effect on the mood.
Native to South Africa, Pelargoniums came to be known for having soothing effects on the skin, and thus became popular in traditional medicinal applications. Accordingly, they were used in remedies for burns and other topical ailments. For centuries, they were also largely used to soothe respiratory ailments, such as coughs and tuberculosis, as well as gastritis and dysentery. In the 17th century, after being introduced to European countries, it came to be commonly used as a protective medium around households, as it was believed to have shielding properties that could ward off evil spirits.
Over time, Pelargoniums – especially the lemon-, rose-, and peppermint-scented varieties – came to be used as flavoring agents in culinary applications. The Rose Geranium also became a popular ingredient in cosmetics as well as perfumery. In the perfume industry, both Geranium and Rose Geranium oils may be used as additives to help the scent of real Rose Essential Oil last longer, as they both exhibit the same aromatic properties.
Today, Rose Geranium continues to be used to relieve the mind of stresses, promote relaxation or enhance energy (depending on the user), stimulate circulation, help regulate blood sugar, minimize varicose veins, ease symptoms of menstruation and menopause, balance the skin’s oil production, facilitate the healing of abrasions and infections, soothe inflammation, and ease physical pain and soreness.
Used in aromatherapy applications, the sweet, floral, citrusy nuances of Rose Geranium Essential Oil’s earthy and herbaceous aroma are known to have a soothing sedative effect that promotes greater feelings of relaxation, emotional stability, and optimism. These balancing qualities make this oil’s crisp scent beneficial for those who may be suffering from fatigue, anxiety, restlessness, tension, and grief. Some users may find that this oil has an energizing effect instead. Whether sedative or energizing, it uplifts the mood and this property, along with the oil’s antiviral and antifungal activity, helps to not only strengthen immune function and maintain general well-being but to also soothe ailments of the respiratory system by eliminating bacterial infections. It is believed that by regulating hormones, Rose Geranium Oil helps to improve symptoms of menstruation and menopause. As a bonus, it helps to deodorize stale indoor environments as well as repel insects.
Used in skincare, Rose Geranium Oil is reputed to soothe and improve the quality of skin by balancing its natural oil production, minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores, and eliminating infection-causing or acne-causing bacteria.
When used in natural body care formulations, it is known to encourage the body’s relaxation, deodorize, promote the faster fading of scars and blemishes, soothe the symptoms of eczema, acne, dermatitis, fungal infections, and rashes, and generally rejuvenate the complexion. Used in a natural formula for shampoo, it is known to eliminate lice, calm scalp inflammation, and balance oil production to prevent dandruff.
Used medicinally, Rose Geranium Oil works as a hemostatic that helps stem the flow of blood when applied to minor wounds, bites, sores, and other abrasions. This activity helps to protect them from developing infections while also helping them to heal faster. Its anti-inflammatory property helps to reduce the discomforts of musculoskeletal ailments and skin conditions characterized by inflammation. It is reputed to function as a diuretic that helps stabilize the body’s water systems, thereby addressing fluid retention, relieving swelling, and restoring the proper function of the body’s waste elimination systems to purge bodily toxins.
As illustrated, Rose Geranium Essential Oil is reputed to have many therapeutic properties. The following highlights its many benefits and the kinds of activity it is believed to show:
To use Rose Geranium Essential Oil to boost a negative mood or low energy, add 2 drops in a diffuser of personal preference. This simple method is known to stimulate a fatigued mind and to have a refreshing effect on a tired body. To enhance its relaxing quality, Rose Geranium Essential Oil may be combined with citrusy essential oils (Orange, Lime, Grapefruit, Bergamot, Citronella), floral essential oils (Lavender, Jasmine, Rose), earthy essential oils (Cedarwood, Angelica Root, Carrot Seed), and herbaceous essential oils (Tulsi, Rosemary). For an aromatherapy room spray with similar effects, simply dilute Rose Geranium Essential Oil in a spray bottle of distilled water and combine it with a few drops of the other aforementioned essential oils.
For cosmetic and topical applications, 3 drops of Rose Geranium Essential Oil can be diluted in 15 ml (½ oz.) of a preferred face cream to cleanse clogged pores, refine their appearance, balance the skin’s sebum production, and promote the regeneration of new skin cells. Alternatively, it may be diluted in a carrier oil of personal preference and applied to the face and other areas of skin, such as those affected by cellulite, burns, bruises, redness, itchiness, or swelling.
For a natural shampoo infused with the balancing properties of Rose Geranium Essential Oil, simply dilute a few drops in a preferred shampoo. Alternatively, a soothing, deep-cleansing, volumizing, and softening shampoo can be made from scratch by combining Rose Geranium Oil with a Carrier Oil, Liquid Castile Soap, and a Floral Water with a preferred scent (optional) in a dispenser bottle. Before using this product, shake the bottle well to thoroughly combine all ingredients.
To use Rose Geranium Essential Oil in medicinal applications, combine it with other essential oils that are reputed to promote faster healing, then dilute the blend in a carrier oil to use in a bath or a massage. These simple combinations are known to help reduce or eliminate stress, tension, fluid retention, menstrual discomfort, bruises, infections, and ulcers.
ROSE GERANIUM ORGANIC ESSENTIAL OIL
Botanical Name: Pelargonium roseum x asperum
Method of Extraction and Plant Part: Steam distilled from leaves
Country of Origin: South Africa
Believed to:
ROSE GERANIUM SOUTH AFRICAN ESSENTIAL OIL
Botanical Name: Pelargonium roseum x asperum
Method of Extraction and Plant Part: Steam distilled from petals
Country of Origin: South Africa
Believed to:
As with all other New Directions Aromatics products, Rose Geranium Essential Oil is for external use only. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using this oil for therapeutic purposes. Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use Rose Geranium Oil without the medical advice of a physician, as it may have an effect on certain hormone secretions and it is unclear whether these effects are transferable to babies at these stages of development. The oil should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to children, especially those under the age of 7.
Those with the following health conditions are recommended to be advised by a physician: cancer, heart-related ailments, skin disorders, or hormone-related ailments. Individuals that are taking prescription drugs, undergoing major surgery, or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes, heart attacks, or atherosclerosis are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use.
Prior to using Rose Geranium Oil, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the Essential Oil in 4 drops of a Carrier Oil and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of skin that is not sensitive. Rose Geranium Oil must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Potential side effects of Rose Geranium Oil include rashes and burning.
Those seeking medical care to manage moods, behaviors, or disorders should treat this essential oil as a complementary remedy rather than a replacement for any medicinal treatments or prescriptions. In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the product and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.