Geranium Scent — Love or Hate it? Why Use the Oil…

By Caryn Gehlmann, Clinical Aromatherapist

Let’s explore Geranium — its benefits, its varieties, and how you can use it to enhance your own health and well-being. I’ll also share some alternatives to Geranium essential oil since not everyone enjoys or appreciates a strong Geranium scent. 

While this is certainly not everything there is to know about Geranium essential oil, it will be a solid and practical introduction to what makes this essential oil a must-have for many aromatherapy lovers. 

Benefits of Geranium Essential Oil

When you think of Geranium essential oil, you probably think of its reputation for supporting women’s reproductive system. And you would be correct! But it also has many other less-known benefits. Let’s review some of the key benefits of Geranium and why you may want to keep some on hand.

Balancing hormones

Geranium essential oil is particularly helpful during the hormonal shifts that occur during PMS, the menstrual cycle, and throughout menopause. This is the reason why Geranium is a key essential oil in e3’s Female Harmony blend.

Skincare

Geranium essential oil is an all-around great choice for a variety of skin issues. It has properties that can soothe congestion, including acne, eczema, or inflamed skin. It can be especially helpful if the skin flares up from hormonal changes, but can also be used to address small wounds, minor skin infections (bacterial, fungal), burns, bruises, and more!

Hair health

Healthy hair depends on a healthy scalp. Geranium essential oil can help regulate dryness, excess oil, and the production of sebum. And a 2017 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found it did promote hair growth.

Emotional & psychological support 

Geranium is helpful for women (and men!)  in soothing emotional upheaval due to frustration, emotional exhaustion, and anxiety. Its sweet, floral aroma can be reassuring to many and help to restore a sense of balance.

This list is just scratching the surface when it comes to the benefits of Geranium. You’ll find even more uses on our product page.

Varieties of Geranium Essential Oils 

Geraniums have beautiful, delicate flowers. However, did you know that Geranium essential oil is actually steam distilled from the leaves which gives a distinctive and intensely floral aroma? There are over 200 varieties of Geranium with slightly different scents.  

Here at e3, we carry Geranium, Egypt and Geranium, China (Pelargonium graveolens), as well as Geranium Rose (Pelargonium roseum). They are extremely similar in terms of active components and share all of the benefits we’ve already considered. If you’re familiar with Geranium scent, you know it’s an herbaceous, slightly floral, soft, green aroma. However, there are slight variations in scent. Geranium, China has a citrusy aroma. Geranium, Egypt has a fresh, leafy green smell. Geranium Rose is a sweeter, more floral option. To learn more about selecting an essential oil based on where it comes from, see our blog Why Knowing Essential Oil Country of Origin Matters.

3 Easy Ways to Use Geranium Essential Oil 

#1 — Add to Skincare and Beauty Products

Geranium essential oil can be added to pre-made, fragrance-free products to enhance their performance. Add 4-8 drops to 2 ounces of facial moisturizer; 6-30 drops to 1 ounce of lotion; 10-20 drops to 8 ounces of shampoo; 15-30 drops to 8 ounces of conditioner.

#2 — After Your Shower

After showering, while your skin is still wet, put 1-3 drops of Geranium essential oil in the palm of one of your hands and rub your hands together. Quickly and evenly spread the essential oil over your legs, arms, and torso. Avoid sensitive skin areas. For maximum skin hydration and to seal in moisture, apply cream, lotion, or body oil directly to damp skin.

#3 — A Relaxing Foot Bath

Mix 1-3 drops of Geranium essential oil in 1/2 teaspoon of carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil. Set aside. Fill a tub (deep enough to cover your feet and ankles) with warm water. Add the essential oil mixture, stir well, and immerse your feet for 10-15 minutes. Breathe in the aroma and massage your feet.

Visit one of our Geranium product pages, for 14 additional ways to use Geranium essential oil. 

Geranium Scent Too Much? Try Alternatives to Geranium Essential Oil, Plus Blending Tips

Geranium Essential Oil is a floral essential oil that is rather strong and dominant in blends. Some find it too strong at first but over time grow to tolerate and even enjoy the aroma. However, I always recommend that you “listen” to your nose. 

If you just can’t get past the strong Geranium scent, there are a variety of essential oils that contain similar health benefits depending on the specific condition you want to address. For example, Lavender is a great alternative if you want to address anxiety or skin issues, such as acne and wound care. Peppermint or Clary Sage can provide relief for menstrual or menopausal symptoms. (Read the articles, Essential Oils for PMS, Menstrual Cramps & More and Essential Oils for Menopause — Experience The Calm!, for additional suggestions.)

Geranium tends to blend well with citrus, floral, mint, and woodsy scents. If you’re creating your own blend and want to use Geranium, I recommend starting slow with just one drop at a time, since it can overpower other oils. For more blending recommendations, including worksheets to track your efforts, download our free workbook, The Art & Science of Blending Essential Oils. You’ll also get a coupon you can use for your next order.

Do you have more questions about Geranium essential oil? Use the search bar in our blog for recipes and tips or contact e3 to be connected with one of our clinical aromatherapists.