Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Profile
Latin name: Pelargonium graveolens (syn. Pelargonium asperum). Family: Geraniaceae. Steam-distilled from the leaves. Known in Turkish as ıtır or ıtırşahi.

Aroma
Rose-like, green, floral.

Traditional uses
Traditionally used in balancing blends for combination and oily skin, to support emotional balance and in self-care routines for women.

How to use
As a general guide, about 2% is used for adult body applications (4 drops in 10 ml carrier oil) and 1% for the face (2 drops in 10 ml). A few drops are enough in a diffuser.

Safety
Generally considered low risk. According to Tisserand & Young, the risk of skin sensitisation is low; a patch test is still recommended before first use. Because of a possible interaction with some medicines, people on regular medication should check with a doctor or pharmacist first.

Children
Essential oils are not used routinely at home for babies (0–6 months); between 6 months and 2 years they are only considered under the guidance of a professional trained in paediatric aromatherapy. Adult dilutions are not used for older children either; see “Aromatherapy and Its Safe Use in Children” for details.

Essential oils are not taken internally, not applied undiluted to the skin, and are kept away from the eyes and out of reach of children. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a professional. This information describes traditional uses and does not replace medical treatment.