Which Geranium essential oil should I choose?

Geranium essential oil, although often confused with various designations such as Rose Geranium, Scented Geranium, Geranium graveolens, or Geranium asperum, mainly refers to a botanical specification: Pelargonium graveolens L'Hér. syn. Pelargonium X asperum Ehrhart ex Willdenow.

The Pelargonium genus comprises over 200 species, but only six varieties are used for essential oil production.

These varieties are grouped together under the generic name of Geranium rosat, including graveolens, roseum, odoratissimum, capitatum, and radula.

Origins and biochemical differences

Geranium essential oil, extracted from Pelargonium graveolens, is prized for its therapeutic and cosmetic virtues. Native to China and Egypt, it is mainly grown in Madagascar, Guinea, Egypt and Algeria.

The main difference between these two origins lies in fragrance and therapeutic use. Geranium Bourbon oil is prized for its rose-like fragrance, while Geranium rosat oil is more appreciated for its beneficial effects on the skin.

• Geranium Bourbon (Madagascar and Réunion):

  • Contains around 30% esters.
  • Fragrance: Euphorizing, subtle and heady.
  • Used for energy therapy and psycho-emotional skin problems.

This oil contains around 30% esters, giving it a euphoric, subtle, heady fragrance. It is particularly recommended for energy therapies and psycho-emotional skin problems. The name "Bourbon" comes from the ancient name of Reunion Island, and adds a connotation of nobility to its origin and fragrance.

• Geranium Rosat (Egypt):

  • Contains around 20% esters.
  • Fragrance: Less pleasant, reminiscent of lemongrass.
  • Mainly used for its physical and skin-regenerating properties.

This variety contains around 20% esters. It is mainly used for its physical and skin-regenerating properties. Its less pleasant fragrance is reminiscent of citronella (citronellol), and is often used in cosmetic formulations for its specific qualities.

Applications and uses :

Both types of Geranium essential oil are commonly used in aromatherapy, perfumery and cosmetics. However, Geranium Bourbon oil is generally preferred for its rose-like fragrance and is often used in high-end products.

Knowing the origins and specific characteristics of each essential oil enables you to choose the variety best suited to your therapeutic and cosmetic needs.

Main biochemical components by geographical origin