Geranium oil: properties and use in cosmetology, the best recipes for the face

Delicate flower buds can delight not only with their harmony and beauty. There are many plants that have healing properties. Pink, red, white inflorescences create a cozy homely atmosphere. The unpretentious plant pelargonium pleases with beautiful flowering several times a year. Not many people know that the miraculous properties of geranium oil are widely used for cosmetic purposes. This product helps improve the condition of oily, problem skin, restore healthy tone, restore firmness and elasticity of the skin.

general description

The plant's homeland is South Africa, but today geranium grows all over the world. There are many varieties; gardeners regularly introduce new specimens with the aroma of lemon, mint, and rose. The fragrant ether is extracted from the stems and leaves of perennial shrubs using steam distillation. To create the oil, two varieties of plants are used - rose and lemon geranium. As a result, it is possible to obtain a transparent extract with a yellow-green tint and a rich odor.

The fresh, sweet aroma with fruity notes may be confused by the uninitiated with other esters. Often it is the more affordable geranium oil that replaces the expensive rose oil. Widely used in cosmetology to solve a whole range of aesthetic problems. It has tonic, whitening and antiseptic properties.

Allows you to restore, rejuvenate the skin, improve color and structure. You can enrich ready-made masks and creams; the use of natural recipes is no less effective.

Attention! There is only essential oil that can be used to enrich various base oils of jojoba, olive, apricot kernel or grape, enhancing their beneficial properties.

You can also obtain ether at home; 500 leaves of the plant will yield only 1 ml of oil. You will need special containers for steam distillation. The raw materials need to be crushed, placed in a glass flask, and a little water added. Close with a stopper the part through which the long tube passes at an angle. The tube itself should be placed in a glass of cold water, and its end should be lowered into a test tube.

The container with the leaves is heated using an alcohol lamp; you need to constantly monitor the liquid level. Gradually, essential oil will be released from the leaves, along with the steam it will accumulate in the cooling test tube. After the steam condenses, an oil film forms on the surface; at the end of the process, you need to collect the oil using a pipette.

Geranium concentrate for weight loss

Essential oils are an indispensable remedy for those who want to lose a couple of kilograms. The mechanism of their action is to accelerate metabolic processes, eliminate excess fluid and normalize the water-salt balance. In addition, the oil tightens and tones the skin, which will prevent it from sagging when losing weight.

To achieve this goal, the baths and massages already mentioned above are suitable, and the product can also be used internally. Another way to lose weight using geranium oil is body wraps.

Pelargonium oil wraps will speed up metabolism and help you lose weight

How to do the wraps:

1. Before the procedure, you should take a warm shower and cleanse your skin with a scrub.
2. Using massage movements, rub an oil mixture of 50 ml of olive oil, 5 drops of geranium oil, 5 drops of orange oil, a teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of liquid honey into the problem area.
3. Wrap the film on top and put a warm belt or scarf over it.
4. After 20 minutes, remove the mixture with a dry cloth, then wipe off any remaining oil with a makeup remover.
5. Take a warm shower.

A little history

Pelargonium is translated from Greek. as “crane”, it received its name due to the similarity of the inflorescence with a bird’s beak. The plant was brought from South Africa to Holland in the 18th century; in the 19th century, geranium was already growing in gardens throughout Europe. There are many legends and tales associated with the flower. The plant is credited with miraculous healing properties.

In ancient times, called “ear, nose and throat”, geranium is an effective remedy for the treatment of infectious diseases. It also helps accelerate the recovery of bone tissue in case of fractures. The leaves of the plant, from which essential oil is obtained, contain phytoncides. Thanks to its ability to disinfect, the air in Belarus is called “toast”.

Geranium oil has been used for cosmetic purposes since ancient Greece. It has excellent anti-aging properties and also neutralizes inflammation and redness. The beneficial properties were used by beauties in ancient times, mixing with olive oil, adding a fragrant liquid to water. A pleasant aroma not only improved mood, there was a belief that it was this smell that contributed to the search for the other half.

Pelargonium oil for women's health

Geranium oil stimulates the production of estrogen, normalizes the menstrual cycle, reduces pain during menstruation, and minimizes the effects of menopause. Geranium essential oil is also used in the treatment of infertility when it is caused by hormonal imbalance and irregular or scanty periods.

The most well-known uses of the product for women's health are as follows:

• Orally, 1–3 drops per day after meals, mixed with kefir or yogurt. After three weeks of use, you need to take a break for one week.
• For massage, add to massage oil. You can mix geranium essential oil with others, such as lavender or orange. The massage mixture is made up in the following proportion: 4–7 drops of essential oil per 100 ml of base oil.
• For baths, mixing with other esters and any emulsifier: honey, olive oil, milk. For 200 liters take 5-15 drops of oil.

You need to add oil to not very hot water - 35–37 °C

Beneficial features

The rich composition is represented by more than 120 elements; the complex composition makes the oil universal for caring for different skin types:

• terpene alcohols have antiseptic properties, stop the spread of bacteria, regulate the functioning of the sebaceous glands, cope with oily shine and redness, and promote the penetration of nutrients into the deep layers of the skin;
• limonene effectively fights sebum, helps clean pores, neutralizes fungal microorganisms, cleanses the integument, has antioxidant properties, stimulates the renewal of the integument;
• menthol is known for its anti-inflammatory effect, soothes irritation and redness, has a venotonic effect, strengthening the walls of blood vessels, normalizes lymph flow, and helps get rid of swelling;
• Cadinene helps rejuvenate the skin, smooth out wrinkles, increase elasticity and firmness;
• formic acid stimulates metabolic processes, activates blood flow, improves skin color and structure, is effective for whitening pigmentation, eliminating acne marks;
• butyric acid prevents the processes of aging, withering, dehydration of the skin, increases the protective barrier of the integument, controls and neutralizes the spread of bactericidal microflora;
• Thiglonic acid softens keratinized epithelium, restores oxygen respiration, and improves cellular metabolic processes.

Properties and what is it used for?

Geranium oil is so multifunctional that even listing all its beneficial properties would take a lot of time.

It has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, heals wounds, constricts blood vessels, deodorizes, lowers sugar levels, is a good insecticide, has a positive effect on the emotional state, relieves anxiety and reduces fatigue, has a beneficial effect on hormonal levels, relieving menstrual pain and problems during menopause. It is used internally and externally, in folk medicine, aromatherapy and cosmetology.

Inside

Traditional medicine suggests using oil to treat many ailments. It is taken orally to:

• remove kidney stones;
• reduce blood sugar levels;
• normalize the functioning of the intestines and digestive system;
• treat stomach ulcers;
• expel helminths from the body;
• stop bleeding.

Attention! It should be remembered that you can take oil internally for medicinal purposes only after consulting a doctor.

External use

From ticks and mosquitoes

At the height of the summer season, when insects that are dangerous and unpleasant to humans are especially active, a small jar of geranium essential oil can provide salvation. It, like many other essential flower oils, has strong repellent properties - its rich aroma repels ticks, mosquitoes and midges. It is recommended to use it for control in one of the following ways:

• Mix 20 drops of oil with two tablespoons of base oil and apply to clothes and exposed skin. This method is good for its ease and simplicity of execution.
• 2 teaspoons of geranium oil are mixed with 200 ml of clean water and an emulsifier (or even ordinary alcohol), the resulting mixture is poured into a container with a spray bottle and applied to clothing and skin.

The effect of these remedies can last up to 24 hours. However, the use of products on this basis is not recommended for people sensitive to strong floral odors and people with allergies.

While walking through the forest, you should not neglect regular self-examinations to check for the presence of ticks on your clothes.

Freshener and flavor

A pleasant floral scent can also affect the emotional sphere, it relaxes, helps relieve tension, relieves stress, increases activity, it can even help get rid of insecurities and complexes. 2-4 drops of geranium essential oil can be added to the aroma lamp to aromatize the room on its own or as part of mixtures.

You can make an air freshener that not only creates a pleasant smell, but also humidifies the air. To do this, pour 250 ml of water into a container with a spray bottle, add 3 drops of geranium and lavender oils and 2 drops of sage and grapefruit. We use the resulting mixture by spraying it indoors as needed. A body freshener is made in a similar way, using 5 tablespoons of water per 5 drops of oil.

Indications for use

Geranium essential oil can be used for all skin types, with the exception of sensitive dermis prone to allergic reactions. One application is enough to feel positive changes.

Suitable for dry, dehydrated, aged, as well as oily, problematic skin. Regular use will give your face an impeccable tone and even structure, and protect you from premature aging.

Application effect:

• has a lifting effect;
• relieves swelling;
• improves skin turgor;
• smoothes wrinkles of varying degrees;
• effective prevention of ptosis;
• activates blood flow, strengthens thin capillaries;
• regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands;
• has bactericidal properties, stops the spread of infection;
• tightens pores;
• neutralizes oily shine;
• whitens age spots and acne marks.

Effect on the emotional sphere

In the emotional sphere, geranium evokes positive emotions, relaxes, puts you in an optimistic mood, helping to cope with worries, fears, tension and relieve symptoms of fatigue and stress. This is one of the essential oils to combat depression and apathy. By restoring internal harmony, it promotes adequate self-perception and opens the way to positive life changes, increases physical and mental activity.

But the most important effect of pelargonium oil concerns self-esteem: thanks to this essential oil, you can get rid of dependence on other people’s opinions, uncertainty, complexes, recover from losses and unpleasant encounters, and adequately perceive motives and actions.

Where is the best place to buy

You can purchase geranium oil at a pharmacy or online store. The product is not often counterfeited, but it is still better to buy a name brand product. High-quality ether is sold in a dark glass bottle with a dispenser, costing from 80 to 100 rubles. for 10 ml.

It should be stored at a temperature of 5 to 25° for no more than 24 months, protected from direct sunlight. Old oil is difficult to recognize, since the ether has a fairly pronounced aroma.

By the way! It is not always possible to smell rancid notes. Therefore, it is better to rely on the information indicated on the packaging.

Oil for healthy hair

Geranium oil, when used correctly and in concentration, is suitable for all hair types. It copes well with dandruff, dullness and brittleness.

The easiest way to care for your hair is aromatherapy. It will take no more than a couple of minutes a day. You just need to apply a few drops of oil to a wooden comb and comb your hair as usual. There is another option: you can rub a few drops of oil in your hands and then massage your scalp.

Aroma combing with geranium oil will make your hair strong and shiny.

Another quick way to improve hair condition is to add geranium oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner before use. 2-3 drops will be enough for a single serving.

Masks with added product

Masks with the addition of geranium oil are also very effective. Depending on the type and structure of the hair, this product is combined with different ingredients. The finished mask is applied to dry and well-combed hair, and then covered with a shower cap. You can wrap your head with a warm scarf or scarf on top. The mask is usually washed off 20–30 minutes after application. There are many effective recipes for such compositions.

For shiny curls

Ingredients:

• geranium oil - 5 drops;
• liquid honey - 25 g;
• peach or almond oil - 10 ml;
• half a banana.

To accelerate growth

Ingredients:

• geranium oil - 5 drops;
• raw egg - 1 piece;
• mustard powder - 1 tablespoon;
• almond oil - 10 ml.

For lice

The antibacterial properties of geranium oil can even help get rid of lice. To prepare the mask, you need to mix 50 ml of shampoo with 10 drops of geranium oil. The resulting mixture is applied to the hair for 10–15 minutes, combed thoroughly and then rinsed off the remaining product with warm water. This mask can also be used to prevent head lice.

General recommendations

There are basic rules for using oil to achieve the desired effect:

• geranium ether is enriched in ready-made masks, creams, tonics, emulsions, shampoos, and will also become an indispensable component of natural beauty recipes;
• the oil is used for no more than 2–3 weeks, after which you need to take a break of 2–4 months, then you can resume the procedures;
• it is also necessary to check individual tolerance, treat allergens, not recommended for the care of sensitive, thin skin;
• used for the face, neck, décolleté, body and hair care, should not be used for eyelids, eyelashes, may cause swelling and tearing;
• combines with base oils, as well as esters of lemon, basil, grapefruit, bergamot, sandalwood and rosewood;
• You must first measure a single dose of the finished product; you cannot add ether directly to the jar;
• The optimal concentration is considered to be 2–3 drops of geranium oil per 5 ml of base;
• you need to mix the components in a glass or ceramic container, like any ether, geranium is prone to oxidation when interacting with metal;
• mainly used in anti-aging programs, as well as to restore the condition of oily, porous skin prone to acne;
• It is recommended to use up to 4 times a week, the autumn-winter period is considered the best, the ether allows you to whiten pigmentation and increase the immune properties of the integument;
• Cosmetic procedures should be carried out 3-4 hours before bedtime; the pronounced aroma stimulates a surge of strength and energy, and can cause insomnia.

What effect does it have?

Geranium oil has a complex effect on the skin; when used correctly, it:

• relieves irritation, relieves inflammation;
• tones the skin and blood vessels;
• promotes rapid healing of wounds;
• relieves swelling;
• stimulates cell regeneration, rejuvenates, smoothes wrinkles.

Pelargonium oil is a universal cosmetic product; it improves the condition of any skin type. If the sebaceous glands work too intensively, then geranium essential oil will help eliminate excess oil and mattify the skin. For problem skin, this type of oil will help get rid of acne. Those with skin prone to flaking and dryness will be able to achieve a significant improvement in their appearance. The skin will become more hydrated, stop flaking, and the feeling of tightness will disappear.

Directions for use on the face

Geranium essential oil can be mixed with both base oils and ready-made products. Provides acceleration of renewal, strengthens blood vessels, stimulates rejuvenation processes.

Face cream

It has anti-inflammatory, regenerating properties, refreshes color. Recommended for the prevention of wrinkles and restoration of tired skin. It will help normalize the condition of dehydrated dermis, perfectly tones, and prevents rosacea.

Step by step application:

1. Cleanse the skin with cleansing gel or cosmetic milk.
2. Measure out 5 ml of cream, you can also use avocado or olive oil for dry skin. For oily skin, choose grape or apricot kernel oil.
3. Add 1-2 drops of geranium essential oil and mix well.
4. Apply a thin layer, excluding the area of ​​the eyelids and lips.
5. After half an hour, blot the unabsorbed residues with a napkin.

Rejuvenating mask

You can prepare an effective remedy to get rid of wrinkles at home. Smoothes wrinkles, increases firmness and elasticity of the skin. Activates the protective properties of the skin, prevents premature aging processes.

Components:

• 2 drops of geranium ether;
• 10 gr. cocoa powder;
• 10 shea butter.

Melt shea butter in a water bath and add floral ether. Pour cocoa with warm water or green tea, mix thoroughly until smooth, add the composition of oils. Apply to cleansed skin; you can pre-scrub or steam. Leave to act for half an hour, rinse with warm water. Carry out the procedure in courses every other day for 2 weeks.

Acne mask

Helps get rid of acne and oily shine. Perfectly mattifies the skin, tightens pores, and stops the spread of infection. As a result, it is possible to improve the general condition of the dermis and give it a healthy color.

Components:

• 2 drops of geranium ether;
• 10 gr. buckwheat flour;
• ascorutin tablet.

Crush ascorutin into powder, mix with flour, dilute with warm water. Add aroma oil and mix thoroughly again. Clean your face; if there are no active pustules, you can steam it. Distribute the cosmetic mass on problem areas, rinse after 20 minutes.

Whitening mask

Gives the skin an even, healthy tone, eliminating pigmentation. Has a slight exfoliating effect and stimulates regeneration processes. After the procedure, the face looks well-groomed and renewed.

Components:

• 3 drops of geranium ether;
• 10 ml sour cream;
• 5 gr. white clay;
• 5 gr. starch.

Separately mix clay with starch, add aroma oil to sour cream. Combine all the components of the mask; if necessary, you can dilute with water or herbal decoction. Steam your face, apply the finished mixture in a thick layer along the massage lines, avoiding the eyelids and lips. After half an hour, wash with warm water and apply nourishing cream.

Anti-blackhead lotion

Regular use cleanses pores and reduces sebium synthesis. It is possible to whiten the skin and cope with acne marks. Suitable for caring for oily and combination dermis.

Components:

• 2 drops of geranium ether;
• 50 ml calendula infusion;
• 5 ml apricot kernel oil.

Pour boiling water over fresh and dried calendula flowers, leave for about 2 hours, then strain. Mix apricot oil with ether and add to herbal infusion. In the morning and evening, after washing, soak a cotton pad in the liquid and wipe along the massage lines. After applying moisturizer.

Cosmetic and dermatological effects of geranium essential oil

For face:

-has a tonic and rejuvenating effect on any skin type (dry, tired, normal and oily),

- moisturizes dry skin,

- normalizes fat metabolism,

-improves complexion

-has a whitening effect,

-helps with inflammation, itching, peeling,

- eliminates acne during adolescence.

(aroma lamp, oil compress, massage, cold inhalation, bath, adding to cosmetics and nourishing masks)

For hair:

- eliminates dandruff in dry scalp, - is included in compositions for the treatment of hair loss (nourishing masks, massage, rinsing), aroma combing (1 drop).

For hands:

-softens and refreshes the skin on the hands and elbow (12 drops per teaspoon of base - almond, avocado, jojoba or potato oil, fruit juice, milk, yogurt, kefir)

For legs:

- softens, nourishes (massage), dermatitis (add to baby cream), - restores skin after burns and frostbite (applications), - fungal skin diseases, - poorly healing wounds, - cellulite (massage oil).

Application for lips, eyelashes, eyebrows

Geranium essential oil, in addition to caring for the face and body, is also used to strengthen the restoration of curls. The oil activates growth, strengthens the root system, eliminates dandruff and seborrhea. Adding it to shampoo will help cope with oily strands, and the balm enriched with ether will make combing easier and add shine to colored, dull curls.

Important! Not recommended for use on eyelashes and eyebrows. Possible irritation, tearing, swelling, itching, redness of the eyelids. Also, do not use on lips, it increases the sensitivity of thin skin.

Breast lift with geranium ether

Pelargonium oil will help make your breast skin healthy, smooth and elastic, and also reduce PMS pain. Some, using geranium ether, even manage to slightly enlarge their breasts, since this oil perfectly improves blood circulation, slightly irritates the skin and increases the production of female hormones. The most effective way is massage with essential oil.

Breast massage technique with geranium essential oil

For massage, you can use, for example, the following mixture of oils:

• grape seed oil - 2 tablespoons;
• geranium ether - 3 drops;
• rosemary ether - 2 drops.

There are many options for breast massage; below is one of the simplest techniques:

1. The procedure begins with stroking: they are performed with the palms in the direction from the nipple to the base of the mammary gland. At first, the movements should be gliding and light, and when the skin warms up, you can gradually increase the pressure and begin massaging the chest with your knuckles (this takes about one minute).
2. The next technique is rubbing. Using your fingertips, make circular movements in the same direction. Next, you should continue the same actions with your knuckles, supporting your chest with your other hand (this takes about 4-5 minutes). You can also use the technique of light pinching.
3. This massage is completed with stroking, following the method already described.

Internal use

Geranium essential oil is used to treat various diseases. Therapy is carried out under the supervision of a doctor after a complete examination. The doctor prescribes the dosage and course of treatment and monitors the results with the help of tests and additional studies. Geranium oil is used for the following pathologies:

• stones in the kidneys;
• diabetes;
• intestinal dysfunction;
• to get rid of worms;
• for stomach ulcers.

It is also worth considering contraindications; oil should not be used during pregnancy, when taking hormonal medications, or during hypoglycemia.

Healing properties of geranium oil

antiseptic, bactericidal, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, deodorizing, vasoconstrictor, hemostatic, astringent, healing, antidiabetic, cytophylactic, insecticidal

Relieves nervous overexcitation, depression, restores strength after nervous fatigue and exhaustion, stress, neuroses (aroma lamp, cold inhalation, bath, compress, massage), removes excess water, diarrhea, stomach ulcers (aromatization of rooms, bath, massage, internal use) , lowers blood sugar levels (aroma lamp, baths, cold inhalation, internal use), for atherosclerosis, relieves vascular spasms during migraines and headaches (aroma lamp, rubbing, cold compresses, baths), increases immunity, normalizes hormone secretion (aroma lamp, rubbing , cold inhalation, baths), normalizes the functioning of the cardiovascular system (aroma lamp, cold inhalation, bath), lowers blood pressure (aroma lamp, cold inhalation, bath), in the treatment of sore throat, flu, runny nose (aroma lamp, cold inhalation, rinsing, spot nasal massage), for ear inflammation (tampons), for inflammation of the urethra (cystitis, urethritis) (aroma lamp, compress, massage, cold inhalation. bath, douching), normalizes menstrual processes, eliminates problems of the menopausal period (aroma lamp, bath, compress, massage, douching), to create an intimate atmosphere, in the treatment of frigidity (aroma lamp, massage, bath), eliminates inflammatory processes in hemorrhoids (applications), improves bone healing in fractures (internal use), antiparasitic effect (internal use).

Advantages and disadvantages

The beneficial properties of geranium oil have been used for medical and cosmetic purposes for centuries. Despite the wide range of aesthetic services, natural remedies do not lose their popularity. It is worth considering not only the advantages, but also the disadvantages of using ether.

Pros:

• suitable for dry, oily, problematic, aging skin;
• helps improve color, structure, eliminates wrinkles and swelling;
• affordable price allows you to use it not only for the face, but also for caring for the body and curls;
• the effect can be assessed after the first procedure.

Minuses:

• not suitable for thin sensitive skin, as well as for the eyelid area;
• use for more than 3 weeks may lead to irritation and redness;
• There are a number of contraindications that limit the use of oil.

Cosmetologists' opinion

Experts confirm that geranium oil helps smooth out wrinkles. However, you shouldn't count on a miracle. To achieve truly good results, you need comprehensive skin care. In addition, we must not forget about caution, pelargonium ether is a concentrated substance, so it is not suitable for everyone. Do not use this ether too long and often, take breaks between courses. For most, this regimen is suitable - 2-3 weeks of use, then a 2-3 month break.

Reviews from people

There are many users on the Internet who have managed to evaluate the effects of ether.

The review states that the oil works well, but the specific aroma is frightening.

A discussion participant writes about the anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties of the oil. We managed to replace the cream, but due to the specific smell, we had to look for alternative natural ingredients.

Some reviews describe how to use geranium oil for skin and hair.

Other reviews can be found by following the link.

What it is?

Geranium essential oil, or geranium oil, is a substance produced from the leaves of the geranium plant. It is extracted by steam distillation; to obtain just one drop, you need to process about 500 leaves, which is why this oil is considered one of the most expensive, along with rose and jasmine.

It is a liquid flowing product similar in appearance to ordinary vegetable oil, yellowish-green in color with a light green or olive tint, completely transparent, easily soluble in other oils, it has a thick characteristic odor with a fruity base and bittersweet notes. It contains more than a hundred useful elements, such as citronellol, geraniol, linalool, menthol, nerol, a-terpineol and others.