Rose Geranium
Often used in conjunction with other oils to augment and accentuate a calming blend, rose geranium essential oil is most well-known for its distinct astringent, hemostatic, deodorant and anti-depressant qualities. In addition, rose geranium possesses the ability to generate relaxation, calm and balance in the mind.
Perhaps used earliest by Egyptians, it is often mistaken for the flower rose. Originating in Africa, rose geranium has a mostly clear, but slightly greenish tint with a watery consistency and is distilled using steam, primarily from the stems and leaves of this woody shrub. With a subtly sweet, crisp and rosy smell, the oil has a soothing aroma that carries a slightly earthy or minty undertone.
Rose geranium essential oil has a marked effect as a diuretic, anti-inflammatory and to cicatrize, or help promote healing, particularly of scars and wounds. Rose geranium essential oil also promotes healthy skin, helps relieve depression and anxiety and uplifts the spirit to reduce stress.
Benefits of Rose Geranium
Antioxidant and anti-aging properties
Rose geranium oil is an active ingredient in some cosmetic products, like lotions and fragrances. A 2017 review of studies demonstrated that antioxidant properties in rose geranium oil may help reduce the signs of aging. Antioxidants are well-established as natural agents for improving your skin’s ability to heal itself from environmental toxins and exposure.
Anti-inflammatory properties
The anti-inflammatory properties of rose geranium oil have been demonstrated in animal studies. In fact, one 2013 study, showed rose geranium oil had a strong impact on reducing swelling in mice paws and ears. It suggested that rose geranium oil could be the basis of new anti-inflammatory drugs that may have less harmful side effects than current medications.
Antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties
Rose geranium oil has strong antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. The food service industry even uses rose geranium oil as a natural preservative in some food products. In one 2017 review of studies, rose geranium was shown to reduce bacterial, fungi, and viruses that cause skin disease and infections.
Analgesic and anti-anxiety properties
The scent of rose from the rose flower has been studied and shown to enhance relaxation, offer pain relief, and soothe anxiety in a clinical setting. It’s unclear if it’s the scent itself, memories of the scent, or a chemical agent in the scent which creates this chemical reaction in your brain.