Geranium (Geranium maculatum), also known as spotted or wild geranium, is a decorative garden plant that has also been used as medicine for centuries. The flowers and leaves are edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads. The entire geranium plant can be used to extract geranium oil which can be used as an astringent to tighten mucous membranes, smooth the skin, and help to stop bleeding.

Traditionally, the First Nations people have used soaked geranium flowers as a gargle for treating sore throats, and toothaches, and as a tea for the treatment of diarrhea, upset stomach, and urinary irritations, while the root was traditionally used to stop bleeding.

Key Health Benefits of The Geranium Flower & Oil

Gastrointestinal Benefits

When the powdered herb is taken internally or used in a tea, it can help to treat conditions such as diarrhea, sore throats, and urinary irritations. It does this by helping to tonify the mucous membranes and help seal out infection.

As An Essential Oil

The oil extracted from geranium is toxic to insects, particularly against head lice. Thus, topical use for the treatment of lice is common. As an essential oil, geranium is popular for use in skin balancing and to treat oily acne-prone skin. It is an astringent that can help treat hemorrhoids, eczema, ulcers, bruises, burns, and cuts. As is the case with the majority of essential oils, geranium oil must be diluted in carrier oil before use on the skin.

DMAA & Geranium

There is significant hype in the weight loss community about geranium extract containing Dimethylamylamine (DMAA). DMAA is a stimulant that is commonly found in pre-workout formulas and is occasionally used in higher concentrations as a recreational drug. This substance can cause false positives on amphetamine testing. Unfortunately, research is currently inconclusive on whether geranium extract naturally contains sufficient DMAA, or if this substance is added to powdered formulas for weight loss under pretenses. Be sure to use a manufacturer that you trust when using geranium for weight loss and energy boosting.

Buying Quality Geranium Supplements & Oil

Geranium is available in several different forms. Geranium essential oil is the most popular, and it can be diluted in carrier oil and applied to the skin for a variety of ailments. The plant or root can be dried, powdered encapsulated or used in a tea.