For hundreds of years, the Zulu and other indigenous South African people have used a wild plant remedy called ‘umckaloabo’ for coughs, colds, upper respiratory tract irritations and gastrointestinal problems. Today, we know this plant better as the South African geranium (Pelargonium sidoides) – a herb that recent scientific research has shown to have potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and immune-boosting properties.

 

Stimulates the adrenal cortex and helps to balance the nervous system, while lifting depression and relieving anxiety and has a regulatory effect on the hormonal system, clearing sluggish and oily skin, while assisting with healing. On the skin, Geranium oil helps to balance the secretion of sebum and clears sluggish and oily skins, while the antiseptic and cicatrisant properties make this oil an effective aid to help with burns, wounds, ulcers and other skin problems.

 

Rose Geranium Oil properties - It has a sweet and rosy smell with a mint overtone and is mostly colorless, but can have a slight light green color to it. It is watery in viscosity.

 

Origin of geranium oil - The plants originated from South Africa as well as Reunion, Madagascar, Egypt and Morocco and were introduced to European countries such as Italy, Spain and France in the 17th century. It is a hairy perennial shrub, often used in hedgerows, and stands up to about one meter high (3 feet) with pointed leaves, serrated at the edges. It has pinkish-white flowers.

 

Extraction- The leaves and stalks are used for extraction, and the oil is obtained through steam distillation.

 

Precautions - Geranium oil is not indicated to cause any side effects, since it is non-toxic, non-irritant and generally non-sensitizing, yet can cause sensitivity in some people. Due to the fact that it balances the hormonal system, it might not be a good idea to use in pregnancy.

 

Therapeutic properties - Antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, cicatrisant, cytophylactic, diuretic, deodorant, tonic, vermifuge.