Geranium is a bushy shrub with hairy leaves and flowers. A pale green to yellow oil is steam distilled from the fragrant green parts of the plant, especially the leaves.
It has antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, cicatrizant, deodorant, diuretic, fungicidal and many more properties. In Ayurvedic medicine geranium is thought to balance the Pitta, and Vata doschas and lower the Kapha Doscha.
As an alternative healing, the use of Geranium is powerful. It can be used for the following:
Skin, Halr, Nails: Has antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antiseptic and cell regenerator properties. Use in facial masks, oils and creams for acne, athlete’s foot, burns, bruises, broken capillaries, oily skin, congested & mature skin.
Massage: full body for lymphatic drainage. It is thought to have cellular regeneration and wound healing (especially after facial or plastic surgery) properties. Use in a diffuser or body oil or cream as an insect repellent (mosquitoes).
Respiratory: Has bactericidal properties. Use in a diffuser, inhalation or local massage for sore throats, tonsillitis and asthma.
Muscular/Skeletal: Has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. Used in baths, massage (local and full body) or compresses for rheumatism and neuralgia.
Cardiovascular/Lymphatic: Used in baths and massage for poor circulation. Used in a sitz bath for hemorrhoids. Helpful with varicose veins. Use in a body oil or cream for edema, cellulite, eczema.
Urinary/Reproductive: Has diuretic and decongestant properties. Use in baths, massage or compresses for menstrual cramp and engorgement of the breasts. Use regularly to help with menopause and PMS. Helpful with cystitis, candida, painful periods, PMS and uterine hemorrhage.
Nervous/Brain/Mind: Has calming properties. Used in diffusers, baths, massages, personal perfumes and body oils geranium can assist with nervous tension, neuralgia and stress problems. lt is also thought to be effective for concentration, and to help in times of confusion, hysteria, panic or shock. Geranium is a sedative. lt is an uplifting anti-depressant, which can help with manic depression, post-natal depression and anxiety.
Caution: Although it is non-toxic, but it is better not to use in early pregnancy.