Latin Name:  Pelargonium graveolens
Part of Plant:  Leaf
Country of Origin:  Egypt
Method of Production:  Steam Distillation
Pelargonium graveolens is one of several different species including Pelargonium x asperum, that is used to produce Geranium essential oil.  Native to South Africa, it is a flowering shrub with fragrant leaves that is a member of the Geraniaceae botanical family.  This is where it gets confusing.  The family Geraniaceae, also called the Geranium family, is made up of three different genera.  These are: the Pelargonium genus which contains over 250 different species including the two above mentioned ones, as well as the Erodium genus, and the Geranium genus.  Since so many different plant species are often referred to as Geranium, it is very hard to keep straight the specifics of what is actually going on and how the species that are used to make essential oil are different from the geranium flower that so many are familiar with buying at their local garden centers.  In general, confusion over common names and botanical names is another reason why it is important to look for botanical names when looking at essential oils.
 
Geranium, an essential oil that is commonly used in perfumery, has a strong, long-lasting floral aroma and just a little bit will go a very long way when included in an essential oil blend.  It may assist with the appearance of skin when properly diluted and applied topically.  It is also another oil that is known as a staple for many women.  Try blending with Roman Chamomile, Lavender, and Sweet Marjoram, and properly dilute for a comforting women’s massage blend.  Geranium is also popular with ladies used either alone or blended with oils like Rose, Bergamot, Neroli, or Clary Sage for a relaxing diffuser blend.  
 
Usage ideas:
Add a few drops of essential oils to a diffuser, cotton round, or a tissue.
Dilute to 1% in your choice of carrier oils to make a face serum or body oil.  Apply a small amount to damp skin after washing to help seal in moisture.  
Add 5-15 drops to 1 oz. of your choice of carrier oils to make a massage oil.
Mix a few drops with an unscented liquid soap or bubble bath and add to the tub when filling. 
For convenience on the go…
Properly dilute with your choice of carrier oils in a roller bottle.
Add up to a total of 15 drops of essential oils to a personal aromatic inhaler (aroma stick).
 
Safety:
Dermal Max: 17.5% 
Possible drug interaction in certain circumstances.  If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, please consult with a healthcare professional prior to use.  Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.  Keep out of reach of children and pets.  If swallowed, seek medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center.  Do not use undiluted essential oils topically.  Possible skin sensitivity.  Do not use on broken skin.  Watch for any possible interactions or side effects.  Discontinue use if any reaction including skin irritation occurs and if condition persists, seek medical attention.  Be sure you are familiar with all safety precautions including any recommended dermal maximums before use.  
 
DISCLAIMER: 
This product is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and is for educational and informational purposes only.  These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

 
References:
Sheppard-Hanger, S. (1995). The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual. Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy
 
Tisserand, R. and Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals, Second Edition. Churchill Livingstone
 
Burfield, T. (2016). Natural Aromatic Materials: Odours & Origins, Second Edition. Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy