A few notes on… Geraniums
The intoxicating floral scent of the geranium is revered in both aromatherapy and perfumery. Adorned with gorgeous blossoms and a deliciously rosy fragrance, geraniums offer a multitude of therapeutic benefits.
There are over 200 species of geranium, but only five are used to produce essential oils. The beautifully scented essential oil used in aromatherapy - and used to fragrance our Geranium, Sweet Orange & Coriander Candle - comes from the species Pelargonium Graveolens.
A non-hardy plant species native to South Africa, different varieties of Pelargonium Graveolens give us differently scented essential oils, such as geranium or rose geranium.
Despite its floral fragrance - it’s often used to make an artificial version of rose oil in perfumery - geranium essential oil is actually steam-distilled from the vibrant green leaves and stems of the plant, giving it fresh, herbaceous and slightly minty undertones.
The name ‘Geranium’ is derived from the Greek ‘geranos’ which means ‘crane’, as the plant’s fruit (seed cases) look similar to a crane’s long beak. Due to it’s reputation for weilding uplifting and balanacing properties, the geranium has also been nicknamed ‘the flower of consistency’.
Historically, geraniums have had many uses. Centuries ago, they were placed around the house to keep ‘bad spirits’ at bay and Native Americans used the plant roots to make a tonic to refresh the skin - an example of very early skincare.
The modern day uses of geranium oil are diverse. Not only is it anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal, it is also hemostatic, which means it can prevent hemorrhaging both by restricting blood vessels and encouraging blood clotting.
While we love their gloriously uplifting scent and impressive properties, we also love growing geraniums - there are many filling the windowsills of our workshop - and the pungent fragrance of their growing leaves is deliciously green.
They’re wonderfully easy to grow and don’t need much tending; they enjoy sunshine and not too much water. If grown indoors and kept warm, they’ll flower all year round - just remember to deadhead spent blooms.
Inhalation and Massage
Inhalation - to clear your head and lift your mood.
For adults, add 4–6 drops of geranium essential oil to a bowl of hot steaming water, place a towel over your head and breathe in the vapours. (Adults with sensitive skin, asthma and children over 2 years old should not inhale directly, instead place the bowl in the room nearby.)
Massage - to balance your body and mind.
For adults, use up to 7 drops of geranium essenial oil in 1 tbsp of base oil, such as sweet almond oil or grapeseed oil. (Adults with sensitive skin and children over 2 years old, use up to 3 drops in 1 tbsp of base oil.)
