Crane's Bill

Geranium

Pelargonium graveolens L'Hér. — native to South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape Province.

Such a beautiful, vibrant flowering shrub, geranium is native to South Africa, particularly the Eastern Cape Province. The story of geranium's journey around the world began centuries ago when early explorers introduced the plant to Europe. It quickly became a favorite ornamental houseplant, and over time its fragrant leaves gained worldwide recognition for producing one of aromatherapy's most beloved essential oils.

Today, different varieties of geranium are cultivated in Egypt, Morocco, China, Madagascar, India, and beyond. However, South Africa remains the global center of diversity for the Pelargonium genus. Of the more than 250 Pelargonium species, roughly 80% are native to South Africa, meaning they do not naturally occur anywhere else in the world.

The Three Popular Geranium Essential Oils

Every drop of geranium essential oil begins the same way: steam passes through freshly harvested leaves, carrying microscopic aromatic molecules into a condenser where the essential oil separates from the water. What gives Bourbon, Egyptian, and Rose geranium their unique aromatic personalities isn't a different distillation process—it's the soil beneath their roots, the climate they grow in, and the chemistry nature creates long before the still begins its work.

Harvesting & Distillation

Geranium essential oil is distilled primarily from the fresh leaves and tender stems of the plant.

In many growing regions, planting begins in the fall, with the first major harvest occurring once the plants reach peak flowering. Depending on climate and cultivation methods, growers may harvest once or even two to three times per year.

To encourage healthy regrowth, only the upper portions of the plant are harvested, leaving several green buds intact so the plant can continue producing new growth.

The freshly harvested material is typically steam distilled within just a few hours to preserve its aromatic compounds. Along with essential oil, producers may also obtain fragrant hydrosol (floral water). In some extraction processes—using solvents rather than steam—the plant can also produce geranium concrete and geranium absolute, which are commonly used in fine perfumery because they dissolve readily in alcohol.

Benefits of Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium is just as versatile as the many species within its genus.

It contains naturally occurring antioxidant compounds and is widely loved in skincare for supporting healthy-looking skin. It is commonly included in facial serums, masks, body oils, creams, and moisturizers because of its balancing and rejuvenating properties.

Emotionally, geranium is often used in aromatherapy to promote feelings of balance, ease nervous tension, reduce stress, and encourage emotional well-being. Many people also find it uplifting during periods of mental fatigue while helping create a sense of calm.

When blended with the right essential oils, geranium can also contribute to natural insect-repelling blends, making it a beautiful multitasking botanical.

Why We Love Geranium

Geranium is one of my personal favorites. Its floral aroma is light, fresh, and airy, and when blended with other florals it becomes absolutely enchanting.

Here at Keep Calm Aromatherapy, geranium is a staple ingredient in several of your favorite blends.

Two blends, two different moods, one beloved botanical.

#Blended