Product Overview
Our certified organic (USDA, NOP) Egyptian Geranium is an exquisitely aromatic, soft yet full bodied oil that we highly recommend. Its aroma is very fresh, lightly floral, with rich, leafy green/herbaceous body notes. Geranium essential oil is stored in specialized glands throughout the green parts of this vigorous perennial. It is important to note that the main constituents may vary considerably according to the terroir of the distilled plant material, a phenomenon known as chemotype.[1] The main constituents found in our exceptional Egyptian Geranium are citronellol, geraniol, linalool and iso-menthone.[2] (Also known as Rose Geranium)
Native to South Africa, the Pelargonium genus includes around 270 unique species and is considered one of the most adaptable and modifiable in the botanical world. Producing a veritable symphony of aromatics, it boasts scents of rose, ginger, apple, coconut, strawberry, mint, nutmeg, citrus, pepper and more that are released from glandular leaf hairs, or trichomes. This enormous diversity of aromatic constituents, created for adaptation to many different habitats, is almost unequaled in the plant kingdom.[3] One could say that the Geraniums show great character and creativity while having the ability not only to get along with, but fully integrate within a multicultural botanical populace. When it comes to aromatic formulation, we know many aromatherapy enthusiasts and natural perfumers who would agree!
Geranium essential oil is prized for its beneficial and astringent effects in skincare[4], particularly for oily skin preparations, scalp blends, after-shaves, and foot and leg lotions. The calming aroma is said to be both centering and sensual[5] with inspiring qualities. It is favored in women’s blends (especially with Clary Sage and Lavender), and its versatile nature makes it ideal for body and massage oils of numerous types. We find it beautiful in a diffuser with Sweet Orange essential oil.
1 Rhind, Jennifer Peace. Essential Oils – A Handbook for Aromatherapy Practice, 2012, p. 116.
2 Ibid, p. 157.
3 Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, 3rd ed., 2018, pp. 318.
4 Tisserand, Robert. The Art of Aromatherapy, 1977, p. 233.
5 Mojay, Gabriel. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, 1996, p. 133.