Geranium essential oil is a popular essential oil used in aromatherapy due to its numerous benefits for the mind and body. It is extracted from the leaves and flowers of the Pelargonium graveolens plant, commonly known as the geranium plant. This oil has a lovely floral scent that is both calming and uplifting, making it a favorite among aromatherapy enthusiasts. Here are the top 5 benefits of geranium essential oil for aromatherapy:
1. Relieves Stress and Anxiety
Geranium essential oil has a relaxing effect on the mind, making it an effective oil for reducing stress and anxiety. The oil has been found to have a balancing effect on the nervous system, helping to calm the mind and ease nervous tension. A study published in the Journal of Caring Sciences found that inhaling geranium essential oil significantly reduced anxiety levels in women undergoing a medical procedure.
2. Promotes Restful Sleep
Geranium essential oil has a sedative effect that can promote restful sleep. Diffusing geranium essential oil in your bedroom or applying it to your pillow can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your sleep. A study published in the Journal of Intensive Care Medicine found that inhaling geranium essential oil improved sleep quality in patients in an intensive care unit.
3. Improves Mood
Geranium essential oil is known for its mood-enhancing properties. The oil has a balancing effect on the emotions, helping to alleviate feelings of sadness, depression, and irritability. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that geranium essential oil had an antidepressant effect in mice.
4. Soothes Skin
Geranium essential oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that make it beneficial for soothing skin irritations. The oil can be used topically to soothe insect bites, minor burns, and rashes. A study published in the International Journal of Microbiology Research found that geranium essential oil had significant antimicrobial activity against various types of bacteria.
5. Relieves Menstrual Symptoms
Geranium essential oil is known for its ability to relieve menstrual symptoms such as cramps, bloating, and mood swings. The oil has a regulating effect on the hormones, helping to balance estrogen levels in the body. A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that applying a cream containing geranium essential oil to the abdomen reduced menstrual cramps in women.
This information is for reference only. These recommendations have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not meant to treat, cure or remedy any diseases.
Sources:
“Geranium Essential Oil: Uses, Benefits, and Precautions” by Jon Yaneff, published on Natural Health Research Institute
“Pelargonium graveolens Essential Oil Inhalation on Post-Operative Anxiety” by Tavakoli et al., published in the Journal of Caring Sciences: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5868222/
“Geranium Oil.” National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/about-aromatherapy/more-info/geranium-oil.
Koulivand, Peir Hossein, et al. “Lavender and the Nervous System.” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 2013, 2013, pp. 1–10., doi:10.1155/2013/681304.
“The Aromatherapy Bible: The Definitive Guide to Using Essential Oils.” Novato, CA: Pegasus Books, 2015