A member of the Pelargonium genus of flower species, geraniums are cultivated for their beauty and as a staple of the perfume industry. While there are over 200 different varieties of Pelargonium flowers, only a few are used as essential oils. The uses of geranium essential oil date back to ancient Egypt when the Egyptians used geranium oil to beautify the skin and for other benefits. In Victorian times, fresh geranium leaves were placed on formal dining tables as decorative pieces and consumed as a fresh twig if desired; in fact, the edible leaves and flowers of the plant are often used in desserts, cakes, jellies, and teas. As an essential oil, geranium has been used to promote the appearance of fair skin and healthy hair, making it ideal for skin and hair care products. It also helps calm nerves and decrease feelings of stress. Geranium is also known to naturally repel insects.
Geranium (Geranium)
- Use in an aromatherapy steam facial to beautify skin.
- Add a drop to your moisturizer for a smoothing effect.
- Geranium is great for dry and oily hair.
- Apply a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner bottle, or create your own hair conditioner.
- Diffuse aromatically for a calming effect.