| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Pelargonium graveolens var. roseum |
| Pronunciation | juh-RAY-nee-um (rohz) |
| Plant Family | Geraniaceae |
| Plant Part Used | Leaves and Flowers |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | South Africa, Madagascar, and Réunion Island |
Description
Geranium (Rose) essential oil is a luxurious, rosy-floral oil distilled from a special variety of Pelargonium graveolens cultivated for its high content of rose-like aroma compounds such as geraniol and citronellol. It is a soft yet vibrant oil — sweet, floral, green, and uplifting, often considered the finest type of geranium oil for perfumery and emotional balance.
This variety, sometimes called Rose Geranium, has been cherished since the 17th century when French perfumers discovered its uncanny resemblance to true rose oil. While far more affordable than Rosa damascena, it delivers a similarly elegant fragrance profile that blends floral romance with green freshness.
Emotionally, Geranium (Rose) is renowned for its harmonizing, heart-opening, and stabilizing energy. It helps ease anxiety, restore optimism, and calm mood swings. Physically, it supports skin regeneration, circulation, and hormonal balance, making it a staple in both aromatherapy and luxury skincare.
Geranium (Rose) embodies emotional grace — helping one stay centered, open, and serene amidst life’s changes.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Egypt | Perfume and skincare | Used by royal women to beautify and tone the skin |
| 17th Century France | Perfumery innovation | Rose-scented geraniums cultivated for fragrance production |
| Victorian Era | Emotional wellness | Diffused for nervous tension and melancholy |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Balance and beauty | Used for hormones, skin, and emotional stability |
Geranium (Rose) remains a bridge between luxury and wellness — blending the world of fine perfumery with therapeutic balance.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Floral, rosy, green, slightly citrusy and minty |
| Scent Strength | Medium (Middle Note) |
| Blends Well With | Rose, Lavender, Bergamot, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, and Frankincense |
Geranium (Rose) brings harmony to floral and citrus blends alike — it is often the “unifying heart” of elegant aromatic compositions.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Citronellol | 25–40% | Floral, calming, and skin-soothing |
| Geraniol | 15–25% | Rose-like aroma, regenerative, uplifting |
| Linalool | 5–10% | Sedative, antimicrobial, balancing |
| Citronellyl formate | 3–8% | Sweet rose note, harmonizing |
| Isomenthone | 2–5% | Refreshing, mild stimulant |
| 10-epi-γ-Eudesmol | 1–3% | Grounding, circulatory support |
This high ratio of geraniol and citronellol gives Rose Geranium its distinctly rose-like scent and powerful balancing and rejuvenating properties.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to 2–3%. Very gentle for most skin types. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Safe when properly diluted; excellent for emotional support. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Keep in a cool, dark place to preserve aroma quality. |
Geranium (Rose) is among the safest and most versatile essential oils for daily use in aromatherapy and skincare.
Uses & Application Steps
Geranium (Rose) essential oil is used for emotional harmony, radiant skin, and hormonal balance. Its exquisite aroma soothes the mind and heart, while toning and restoring the skin’s natural glow.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse 3–4 drops to promote calm and happiness.
- Blend with Bergamot and Rose for a gentle mood-balancing synergy.
- Inhale during emotional stress or meditation for grounding comfort.
Topical Use
- Dilute 2–3 drops in 1 teaspoon (5 mL) carrier oil.
- Apply to temples, wrists, or heart center for emotional balance.
- Use in daily facial care to reduce the appearance of fine lines and redness.
Massage or Bath Use
- Mix 4–6 drops with 1 tablespoon carrier oil for a full-body massage.
- Blend with Clary Sage and Lavender to support hormonal balance.
- Add pre-diluted oil to a warm bath to restore peace and self-connection.
Skincare & Beauty Use
- Add 1–2 drops to moisturizer or serum for glowing, even-toned skin.
- Combine with Frankincense and Sandalwood for rejuvenating blends.
- Use in body oils or hair treatments to add shine and gentle fragrance.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Geranium Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/geranium-essential-oil.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Rose Geranium Essential Oil | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/rose-geranium.html |
| Florihana — Geranium Rose Organic Essential Oil | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/143-geranium-rose-organic-3700343010660.html |
| Plant Therapy — Rose Geranium Essential Oil | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/rose-geranium-essential-oil |
| PubChem — Citronellol Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/8842 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — Citronellol (CID: 8842).
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Geranium Essential Oil Profile.
- Eden Botanicals — Rose Geranium Product Page.
Conclusion
Geranium (Rose) essential oil embodies grace, emotional harmony, and self-love. Its soft, rosy-green aroma centers the heart, soothes the mind, and restores inner balance — a fragrant embrace for the spirit.
Emotionally, it uplifts and nurtures, helping to dissolve irritability and sadness. Physically, it nourishes and tones the skin while supporting hormonal equilibrium. Spiritually, it is the oil of compassion — promoting open-heartedness and connection to beauty in all forms.
Geranium (Rose) reminds us that balance is a form of love — a return to wholeness through tenderness and care.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.