14 Geranium Oil Uses & Benefits for Healthy Skin & Much More

Geranium oil is commonly used as an element in aromatherapy for its many health benefits. It’s used as a complementary holistic treatment to help improve physical, mental and emotional health.

Used by the Egyptians for promoting beautiful and radiant skin, geranium oil is now utilized to help treat acne, reduce inflammation, alleviate anxiety and balance hormones. This sweet-smelling oil may also help uplift mood, lessen fatigue and promote emotional wellness.

What is geranium oil?

Geranium oil is extracted from the stems, leaves and flowers of the geranium plant. It is considered nontoxic, a nonirritant and generally non-sensitizing.

The main chemical constituents of geranium oil include:

• eugenol
• geranic
• citronellol
• geraniol
• linalool
• citronellyl formate
• citral
• myrtenol
• terpineol
• methone
• sabinene

Its therapeutic uses include as an antidepressant, an antiseptic and wound-healing agent. Geranium oil is also one of the best oils for a variety of common skin issues, including oily or congested skin, eczema, and dermatitis.

Ad

What are the benefits of geranium oil?

What is geranium oil good for? Some of the most common geranium essential oil uses and benefits include:

1. Wrinkle reducer

Rose geranium oil is known for its dermatological use to help with signs of aging, such as wrinkled and/or dry skin. It has the power to minimize the look of wrinkles because it tightens facial skin and slows down the effects of aging.

Add two drops of geranium oil to your face lotion, and apply it twice daily. After a week or two, you may just see the look of your wrinkles begin to fade away.

2. Pain reducer

Using some geranium oil topically may help with any muscle aches and pains plaguing a sore body.

For example, a randomized, clinical study involving 59 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (a condition causing lower back and leg pain) found that inhalation of geranium essential oil significantly reduced pain scores compared with placebo, while also lowering stress and anxiety levels that can worsen pain perception. Researchers concluded that geranium oil inhalation may serve as a helpful adjunct therapy for pain management in individuals with moderate to severe chronic pain.

Similarly, a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial in 120 surgical patients reported that inhalation aromatherapy using sweet-scented geranium essential oil after appendectomy reduced postoperative pain and improved physiological indicators compared with controls, suggesting the oil may help modulate pain signals and support recovery from physical discomfort.

Create a massage oil by mixing five drops of geranium oil with one tablespoon of jojoba oil, and massage it into your skin, focusing on your muscles.

3. Infection fighter

Research has shown that geranium oil has potent antibacterial and antifungal abilities against at least 24 different types of bacteria and fungi. These antibacterial and antifungal properties found can help protect the body from infection.

When you use geranium oil to fight external infection, your immune system can focus on your internal functions and keep you healthier.

To help prevent infection, apply two drops of geranium oil combined with a carrier oil like coconut oil to the area of concern, such as a cut or wound, twice a day until it has healed.

Athlete’s foot, for example, is a fungal infection that can be helped with the use of this oil. To do this, add five drops of geranium oil to a foot bath with warm water and sea salt. Do this twice daily for the best results.

In fact, a study investigating fungi responsible for athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) found that geranium essential oil exhibits strong antifungal activity against dermatophytes, the group of fungi that commonly infect human skin and cause conditions like athlete’s foot. In laboratory testing against species such as Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes (major causes of athlete’s foot), geranium essential oil significantly inhibited fungal growth, with the strongest effects seen in oils rich in the compounds geraniol and citronellol.

Researchers concluded that these bioactive components can disrupt fungal cell growth and may support the development of topical treatments for dermatophyte infections that affect the skin and feet.

4. Urination increaser

An increase in urination means fewer toxins in the body. Geranium oil is a diuretic that promotes urination.

Through urination, you release toxic chemicals, heavy metals, sugar, sodium and pollutants. Urination also removes excess bile and acids from the stomach.

Ad

5. Natural deodorant

Geranium oil is a circulatory oil, which means that it exits the body through perspiration. Because it has antibacterial properties, it aids in eliminating bodily odors and can be used as a natural deodorant.

The rose-like smell of geranium oil is a perfect way to keep you smelling fresh every day. For your next great natural deodorant, add five drops of geranium oil to a spray bottle, and mix it with five tablespoons of water. This is a natural and beneficial perfume that you can use daily.

6. Possible dementia preventer

Research published in 2010 demonstrated geranium oil’s impressive anti-neuroinflammatory effects. When it comes to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, the activation of microglial cells (primary immune cells in the brain) and their subsequent release of pro-inflammatory factors, including nitric oxide, play a major part in the development and progression of these diseases.

Overall, the study concluded that “geranium oil might be beneficial in the prevention/treatment of neurodegenerative diseases where neuroinflammation is part of the pathophysiology.”

Another systematic review analyzed 12 human studies on geranium essential oil used in aromatherapy and complementary health settings and reported improvements in outcomes such as anxiety, stress, sleep quality and fatigue, factors closely linked to cognitive decline. Researchers noted that major compounds in geranium oil, including geraniol and citronellol, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can protect neurons and regulate oxidative stress pathways, mechanisms believed to contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

These findings suggest that geranium essential oil may offer neuroprotective benefits that support cognitive health and could potentially help reduce dementia risk as part of a broader lifestyle approach.

7. Skin enhancer

With its antibacterial and soothing anti-inflammatory properties, geranium oil can really boost skin health. For instance, it can help in the treatment of acne, dermatitis and other skin diseases.

In a pilot study involving adult women published in 2025, researchers evaluated a facial serum containing 1 percent geranium essential oil applied twice daily and measured skin parameters such as hydration, elasticity and wrinkle appearance using dermatological imaging and skin-analysis instruments. The study was designed to determine whether topical aromatherapy could help improve visible signs of skin aging and overall skin quality, suggesting that geranium essential oil may support healthier-looking skin through mechanisms linked to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Are you wondering, “Can I use geranium oil directly on skin?” To be on the safe side, it’s best to dilute it with a carrier oil.

For geranium oil acne use or other skin use, try mixing a teaspoon of coconut oil with five drops of geranium oil, and then rub the mixture onto the infected area twice a day until you see results. You can also add two drops of geranium oil to your daily face or body wash.

8. Respiratory infection killer

A scientific review in 2013 looked at the use of Pelargonium sidoides (South African geranium) extract in liquid or tablet form versus a placebo for the treatment of acute respiratory infections. The reviewers found that the geranium extract may be effective in relieving acute rhinosinusitis and common cold symptoms.

In addition, it may also effectively relieve symptoms of acute bronchitis and sinus infections in adults.

To take advantage of this benefit, use a diffuser, inhale geranium oil twice a day, or rub the oil on your throat and under your nostrils.

9. Nerve painkiller

Geranium oil has the power to fight nerve pain when it’s applied to the skin.

A double-blind crossover study suggested that applying rose geranium oil to the skin can significantly reduce pain that follows shingles, a condition caused by the herpes virus. The research revealed how “geranium oil relieves pain in minutes and is well tolerated.”

The study also demonstrated how the strength of the product used matters, as geranium oil in a concentration of 100 percent appeared to be about twice as effective as a 50 percent concentration.

To fight nerve pain with geranium oil, create a massage oil with three drops of geranium oil mixed with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Massage this mixture into your skin, focusing on the areas where you feel pain or tension.

10. Anxiety and depression reducer

Geranium oil has the power to improve mental functioning and uplift your spirits. It’s known to help people who suffer from depression, anxiety and anger.

The sweet and floral smell of geranium oil calms and relaxes the body and mind.

In fact, research published in 2015 even showed that geranium can help pregnant women decrease their anxiety during labor. This study of 100 women concluded that the “aroma of essential oil of geraniums can effectively reduce anxiety during labor and can be recommended as a non-invasive anti-anxiety aid during childbirth.”

The women also exhibited decreases in diastolic blood pressure after smelling the geranium essential oil.

Research also has demonstrated geranium’s ability to improve depression in postmenopausal women when used in aromatherapy massage.

11. PMS reliever

In a clinical trial published in the International Journal of Preventative Medicine, 120 women diagnosed with PMS were randomly assigned to aromatherapy massage with 2 percent geranium essential oil, massage alone or a control group for eight weeks. Researchers found that both massage treatments reduced PMS symptoms, but the geranium aromatherapy massage group experienced significantly greater reductions in both physical and psychological symptoms of PMS.

The authors concluded that geranium essential oil aromatherapy may serve as a helpful complementary therapy for relieving PMS symptoms, including mood changes and physical discomfort associated with the menstrual cycle.

12. Insect repellant and bug bite soother

Geranium oil is commonly used in natural bug repellants since its known to keep mosquitoes and other insects away.

To make your own bug repellant, mix geranium oil with water, and spray it on your body. You can also add geranium oil to this homemade bug spray recipe in place of or in addition to the other essential oils listed.

13. Candida stopper

Candida albicans is the most common type of yeast infection found in the mouth, intestinal tract and vagina. Candida can also affect the skin and other mucous membranes.

One study examining fungi isolated from human candida infections found that geranium essential oil may help inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the yeast responsible for many infections such as oral thrush and vaginal candidiasis. In this study, researchers tested geranium essential oil against 31 clinical isolates of candida obtained from infected patients using disc diffusion and micro-broth dilution methods.

The oil significantly suppressed fungal growth, indicating strong antifungal activity. Scientists attributed these effects largely to the oil’s main compounds (citronellol and geraniol), which can disrupt fungal cell membranes and inhibit microbial growth.

These findings suggest geranium essential oil may have potential as a natural antifungal agent that helps limit candida overgrowth.

14. Help for hemorrhages

A 2013 study involving 20 human patients measured the effects of a mix of sesame and rose geranium oil on hemorrhage (a very heavy loss of blood) episodes. The study lasted 183 days.

At the end, 75 percent of the patients felt improvements with the treatment. With no adverse side effects, the oil blend proved to be a compound that significantly reduced the number of hereditary hemorrhage episodes that occurred in these patients.

Geranium vs. rose geranium oil

Is there a difference between geranium oil and rose geranium oil? If you’re comparing rose geranium oil vs. geranium oil, both oils come from the Pelargonium graveolens plant, but they are derived from different varieties.

Rose geranium has the full botanical name Pelargonium graveolens var. Roseum while geranium oil is simply known as Pelargonium graveolens. The two oils are extremely similar in terms of active components and benefits, but some people prefer the scent of one oil over the other. (Rose geranium has more of a floral rose scent, as you might expect.)

How to use geranium oil

Is geranium oil good for the hair? It can be due to its beneficial effects on skin. It’s especially helpful if you have dry hair or dandruff.

Check out this customizable homemade conditioner that is sure to yield some impressive results:

Homemade conditioner with geranium oil

This homemade conditioner recipe helps to restore hair’s natural pH, thus rehydrating it. The result is soft, luscious and healthy hair.

Total Time: 2 minutes

Uses: 20 to 30

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 10 drops geranium essential oil
• BPA-free plastic bottles or glass bottle with dispenser

DIRECTIONS:

1. Mix ingredients together in eight-ounce spray bottle.
2. Shake bottle before using, and then spray hair.
3. Leave in hair for five minutes, then rinse.

Other geranium oil recipes

Add geranium oil to your shampoo or conditioner. You can even mix a few drops into your body soap or lotion.

What goes well with geranium essential oil? When making homemade products, it’s helpful to know that geranium essential oil blends well with many oils, including chamomile, clary sage, ylang ylang, jasmine, clove, bergamot, ginger, cypress, lemon, neroli, rose, patchouli, peppermint, rosemary and sandalwood.

What is a good substitute for geranium essential oil? There’s really nothing quite like geranium or rose geranium oil, but in manufacturing, rose geranium oil is known to be used as a less expensive substitute for rose oil.

Can geranium essential oil be ingested? Only if it’s 100 percent pure and therapeutic grade. Ideally, it should also be organic.

In general, you want to purchase the highest-quality oil to reap the best benefits and ensure safety.

Try adding five drops of geranium oil to this homemade body butter lotion. Conventional lotions can be full of chemicals and harmful synthetic fragrances, so this is a great alternative.

How to make geranium oil

Wondering how to make geranium oil? You can make your own geranium oil at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Use the leaves of a geranium plant. The more leaves you use, the stronger the fragrance will be.

Here’s how to make it:

1. Wash the leaves thoroughly, and then dry them with a clean washcloth.
2. Using a pestle and mortar, ground the leaves until they are completely mashed, and let them sit for a few hours.
3. Then add a carrier oil, like coconut or jojoba oil, to the smashed leaves. Cover the mixture, and let it sit for two weeks.
4. You will notice the beautiful scent of your new oil. Drain the leaves, and keep it in an air-tight container.

Risks and side effects

Geranium oil is usually applied to the skin, and some people can develop a rash or burning sensation. It’s best to test the oil on a small area first.

It can also cause eye irritation if applied to the face so avoid the eye area to prevent unwanted geranium oil side effects.

If you take geranium oil by mouth, stick to consuming it in smaller amounts because the safety of the oil when taken in larger amounts is not known.

Geranium oil influences hormone secretions, so it’s not advised for use by pregnant women or for women who are breastfeeding. It’s still unclear whether or not these hormone secretion changes transfer to breast milk.

Geranium oil should not be used on babies and young children due to the delicate nature of their skin and the possibility of toxicity.

Is geranium oil safe for topical use? For adults, it is typically very safe.

It’s best to dilute geranium oil with a carrier oil when you are applying it directly to the skin. Try mixing geranium oil with equal parts coconut, jojoba or olive oil.

If you have any ongoing health concerns or are currently taking medication, check with your doctor before using geranium oil, especially before using it internally. Specific drug interactions are not well-known.

Frequently asked questions

What is geranium oil?

Geranium oil, also called geranium essential oil, is a natural oil extracted from the leaves and stems of the Pelargonium graveolens plant. It’s commonly used in aromatherapy, skin care and natural wellness products because of its floral scent and potential balancing properties.

What are the benefits of geranium essential oil?

Geranium essential oil is widely used for several potential benefits, including:

• Supporting healthy-looking skin
• Promoting relaxation and emotional balance
• Helping maintain scalp and hair health
• Acting as a natural ingredient in skin care and beauty products
• Providing a pleasant floral aroma for aromatherapy

Many people use geranium oil to support overall skin wellness and create a calming atmosphere.

What does geranium oil smell like?

Geranium oil has a sweet, floral and slightly rosy scent with subtle herbal undertones. Because of its fragrance, geranium essential oil is often used in perfumes, candles and aromatherapy blends.

How do you use geranium essential oil?

Geranium essential oil can be used in several ways, including:

• Aromatherapy: Add a few drops to a diffuser.
• Topical use: Dilute with a carrier oil, and apply to the skin.
• Baths: Mix a few drops with a carrier oil before adding to bathwater.
• Skin care: Add to DIY lotions, serums or facial oils.

Always dilute geranium oil before applying it to the skin.

Is geranium oil good for skin?

Geranium essential oil is commonly used in skin care because it may help support balanced, healthy-looking skin. It’s often included in products designed for oily, dry or combination skin due to its reputation for helping maintain the skin’s natural balance.

Can geranium essential oil help with hair?

Some people use geranium essential oil in hair care routines to support scalp health and stronger-looking hair. When diluted with a carrier oil or added to shampoo, it may help promote a healthier scalp environment.

Is geranium oil safe to use?

Geranium oil is generally considered safe when used properly. However, it should:

• Always be diluted with a carrier oil before topical use
• Be patch-tested on the skin first
• Be kept away from eyes and sensitive areas

If you are pregnant, nursing or have medical concerns, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.

Conclusion

• Geranium essential oil can be added to face creams and oils, body lotions, shampoos, and conditioners to reap its benefits.
• Geranium oil has a really wide variety of uses and benefits, particularly for pain relief, skin and hair health, cognition, immunity, inflammation, and more.