Geranium oil is an essential oil extracted from the geranium plant’s leaves, stems and flowers. The essential oil comes in two types, rose geranium oil and geranium oil. Both kinds come from different varieties of the pelargonium graveolens plant. The two oils are known to have the same benefits. However, some people prefer rose geranium oil because of its floral scent.
Over the years, geranium oil has been used as an ingredient in perfumes and other cosmetic products. It also contains anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties making it a good oil for your health. Let’s dive deeper into some of the benefits of geranium oil.
1. Deals with Respiratory Infections
The anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties present in geranium oil aid in fighting off bacterial infections. Inhaling the oil can help to relieve symptoms of the flu, sinus infections and acute bronchitis. 5 Home Remedies For Dealing With Sinusitis
Process
- Add two to three drops of oil to a diffuser filled with water, or you can also opt to sprinkle a few drops of the oil around your room and on your bedding.
- Alternatively, you can also rub oil on your chest and throat. Before applying it to your skin, remember to dilute the oil with water or carrier oil.
2. Reduces Wrinkles
Geranium oil is one of the best essential oils to use on your skin, especially if you struggle with wrinkles. The oil enhances elasticity and also works to reduce damages caused by UV radiation and chemicals. Regular use of the oil ensures that your skin remains firm, smooth and radiant.
Process
- Add two drops of oil to your daily moisturizer or carrier oil of your choice.
- Apply the mixture two times daily.
3. Good Remedy for Acne
Geranium oil’s anti-septic, anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties help to reduce acne breakouts while also soothing the skin from irritation. It is also an excellent oil to use when dealing with eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis. The best part about using the oil on your skin is that it is a good moisturizer which does not leave your skin feeling greasy. Beauty: How To Take Care Of Acne Prone Skin
Process
- You can mix geranium oil with either almond oil or olive oil.
- Apply the mixture to the affected areas twice each day.
- You can also add a few drops of oil to your daily facial wash.
4. Heals Wounds
The anti-bacterial and anti-septic components in geranium oil come in handy when dealing with wounds. The two properties promote fast healing and stop the wound from bleeding.
Process
- Mix two drops of oil with some water and apply the mixture on the wounded area with cotton wool.
6. Reduces Feelings of Stress and Anxiety
Rose geranium oil’s floral scent relaxes the body and mind. Whenever you feel low or stressed, take some time to inhale the oil. A study conducted in 2015 showed that geranium oil benefits pregnant women by helping them relax during labour. The oil is considered a non-invasive anti-anxiety during childbirth, and it also helps to lower blood pressure. What You Need To Know About Hypertension And High Blood Pressure
Process
- Add one or two drops in a diffuser or sprinkle a few drops around the room.
7. Fights Fungal Infections
Thanks to the anti-fungal properties present in geranium oil, you never have to worry about fungal infections. The oil helps deal with fungi like athlete’s foot and ringworms. You can also use the oil to prevent infections brought about by wounds.
Process
- Mix geranium oil with a carrier oil of your choice and apply the mixture to the affected area.
- For the athlete’s foot, add two drops of oil to a basin of warm water along with some salt and soak your feet.
8. Relaxes the Muscles
You can use geranium oil to soothe your muscles if you feel sore from working out or a long day at work.
Process
- Mix five drops of geranium oil with one tablespoon of jojoba oil.
- Apply the mixture on the parts of your body that feel sore and massage it into the skin.
9. Good Insect Repellant
Aside from being good for your skin and health, geranium oil is also a natural insect repellant. It also helps to heal bites caused by insects.
Process
- You can make your repellant by mixing two to three drops of geranium oil with water and spraying the mixture on your body.
- For the insect bites, mix a few drops of oil with carrier oil and apply the mixture on the affected area with a clean cloth or cotton wool.
Safety Measures
Like other essential oils, geranium oil may cause side effects if not appropriately diluted with water or carrier oil. Always make sure that you do a patch test on your skin before using it on your body. Apply the oil on a small part of your skin and leave it on for 24 hours. If you experience a rash or burning sensation, it is best to stop using the oil.
There are other essential oils that you can try and see if they work well with your skin. Check out these articles to find out more.
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