Geranium (organic)

Geranium oil is not distilled from a Geranium. It comes from Pelargonium, a separate genus native to southern Africa. True Geranium oil exists, from Geranium macrorrhizum, known in Bulgaria as zdravets, and it smells entirely different.

01 · Origin

Pelargonium asperum is the scented pelargonium of perfumery, a cultivated form within the rose-scented group. The genus came to Europe from the Cape and was planted for oil across North Africa and the Indian Ocean. This oil is distilled in Egypt from the leaves of certified organic cultivation.

02 · Chemistry

Citronellol and geraniol lead, the same alcohol pair that underlies rose. Citronellyl formate and geranyl formate follow, and these formates give pelargonium its green, slightly minty edge. The ratio of citronellol to geraniol is a common marker of origin.

03 · In Practice

Rosy, green and fresh, with a fruity, minty lift. A middle note. Skincare formulation, natural perfumery, massage blends and diffusion. Comparative work alongside Geranium, Zdravets (No. 1488) sets the two genera side by side. Blends with rose, lavender, bergamot, clary sage, petitgrain, sandalwood and patchouli.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.