Rose Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)
General Information
Rose geranium is native to South Africa and derives its name from the Greek geranos, meaning “crane,” referring to the shape of its fruit capsule, which resembles a crane’s bill. It belongs to the Geraniaceae family and the Pelargonium genus, which includes over 200 species.
The plant is manually harvested several times a year between October and April.
Country of Origin
Pelargoniums originate from South Africa and were likely introduced to Europe by the late 17th century. From Europe, geranium was later re-exported to French colonies, including Algeria (1847) and Egypt (1930) by the French distiller Charles Garnier.
Notably, Egyptian and Chinese geranium oils have substantial compositional differences, particularly in citronellol and geraniol content.
Smelling Break
Take a moment to smell Rose Geranium essential oil. Record your impressions in your notes:
What emotions or memories does the scent evoke?
Which part of your body does the aroma seem to resonate with?
Consider the Doctrine of Signatures: How does this oil connect to its origins and therapeutic properties?
Botanical & Chemical Profile
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Plant Parts Used: Flowering tops, leaves, and stems
Botanical Family: Geraniaceae
Botanical Name: Pelargonium graveolens
Chemotype: —
Main Constituents: Citronellol, Geraniol, Linalool, Geranyl formate
Aroma: Fresh, Citrus, Floral, Herbaceous, Rosy, Woody
Note: Middle
Color: Pale Yellow to Colorless
Consistency: Light
Common Name: Rose Geranium
Therapeutic Properties
General: Antispasmodic, Anti-inflammatory, Antifungal, Antiseptic, Astringent, Antiviral, Antidepressant, Analgesic, Antibacterial, Sedative, Insecticidal, Cytophylactic, Decongestant, Vulnerary, Phlebotonic, Hemostatic, Digestive.
Main Constituents & Their Actions
Citronellol (30%) – Monoterpene alcohol; antifungal, antiviral, antimicrobial, sedative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant.
Geraniol – Monoterpene alcohol; antioxidant, antibacterial, antiseptic, analgesic.
Linalool – Monoterpene alcohol; sedative, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, analgesic.
Geranyl Formate – Ester; antifungal, hepatoprotective, aromatic (floral, fresh, green).
Aromatherapy Applications
Circulatory System: Reduces pain, inflammation, and tension.
Digestive System: Aids digestion and supports gut health.
Lymphatic System: Stimulates circulation, relieves congestion, and reduces fluid retention (useful for cellulite).
Nervous System: Helps with depression, mood swings, and frustration.
Mental/Emotional: Calming, euphoric, supports anxiety and insomnia relief.
Musculoskeletal System: Eases muscular pain, aches, and carpal tunnel symptoms.
Reproductive System: Beneficial for menstrual pain, hot flashes, and menopause symptoms.
Skin:
Regulates sebum production—ideal for oily or congested skin.
Treats acne, bruises, broken capillaries, eczema, burns, wounds, ulcers, and insect bites.
Promotes skin elasticity and hydration.
Safety Information
Possible Sensitizer: May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Avoid During Pregnancy.
Not for Children Under 5 Years Old.
Avoid Undiluted Use on Skin.
Keep Away from Mucous Membranes to prevent irritation.
Maximum Use Level: 5% in dermal applications.
May Interact with Diabetic Medication.
Avoid Long-Term Use if You Have a History of Estrogen-Dependent Cancer.
(Reference: Tisserand & Young, Essential Oil Safety, 2nd Edition)
Storage Information
Store in a cool, dry place.
Shelf life: approximately 4-5 years.
Keep container tightly closed and in a well-ventilated space.
Protect from heat, direct light, oxidizing agents, and open flames.
References
Battaglia, S. (2018). The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy (3rd ed.). Black Pepper Creative Pty Ltd.
Arctander, S. (1994). Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origins. Allured Publications.
NAHA: General Safety Guidelines.
Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier Books.
Albert Vieille: Essential Oils.
©Copyright 2020 Ebers school of Aromatherapy – all rights reserved.