A tropical geranium with velvety, frilly leaves. Rubbing the tiny surface hairs releases a strong, rosy aroma onto your fingers. The scent of geranium oil enjoys broad popularity, due to its citronellol content, which it shares with rose oil. This alcohol (citronellol) and a wide spectrum of esters lend geranium oil its pleasant character. The tonifying effect of the terpene alcohol combined with the soothing influence of the esters are responsible for the reason geranium oil is perceived differently by each individual. One person will perceive it as an antiseptic, another as a calmative, and a third as a stimulant. Despite, or perhaps because of this versatile character, geranium oil is an excellent foundation for massage and body oils. Because of its ester content, geranium oil is also remarkably effective against Candida albicans and other fungi, as well as being especially valuable in skin care and holistic hygiene. Interestingly, the antimycotic effect of geranium is not linked, as is the case with many other oils, to an antibacterial effect; this means geranium acts against yeasts without affecting bacterial flora. In addition, geranium helps control bleeding, stimulates the functions of the liver and pancreas and when applied topically, soothes pain of the breast, before and during menstruation.
