Bourbon geranium: an essential oil with a rosy scent

You would think you were smelling a rose, with an extra green, slightly lemony edge: that is the signature of bourbon geranium. Yet this essential oil does not come from cut flowers but from the leaves and stems of a highly fragrant plant. It appeals as much to lovers of home fragrance as to anyone who likes to personalise their beauty products.

What is bourbon geranium?

The perfumers' "geranium" is, botanically speaking, a pelargonium: Pelargonium graveolens, a member of the Geraniaceae family native to southern Africa. Its leaves release a powerful scent at the slightest touch. The word "bourbon" recalls the former name of Réunion Island, Île Bourbon, whose production made this geranium famous.

According to the product sheet, our bourbon geranium essential oil is distilled from the aerial parts of the plant and comes in a 5 ml bottle. It belongs to the monoterpenol chemical family, which you can explore in our sheet on essential oil families. The sheet also states that its use requires the advice of a specialist, so feel free to ask us before using it for the first time.

How to use it

Our druggist recommends it for two purposes: cosmetic care and diffusion.

In your beauty routine

• Add one drop to a teaspoon of vegetable oil (jojoba, sweet almond) to make a scented care oil.
• Alternatively, mix one drop into a small amount of neutral cream just before applying it.
• Always test the blend in the crook of your elbow and wait 24 hours before using it on your face or body.
• Avoid the eye area and mucous membranes.

In a diffuser

• A few drops are enough to give a room a floral atmosphere.
• Diffuse in short sessions, then air the room.
• Geranium pairs nicely with citrus oils or lavender for a soft, flowery mood.

Precautions

Before use. As the product sheet points out, using this essential oil requires the advice of a specialist. Never apply it neat and never swallow it. Avoid any contact with the eyes. During pregnancy or breastfeeding, for children, or if you are on medication, ask for advice before any use. Keep the bottle tightly closed, away from light and out of the reach of children.

Our products

• Bourbon geranium (Pelargonium graveolens), 5 ml – distilled from the aerial parts.
• Bourbon geranium essential oil – described on its sheet as an oil "with a floral, rosy scent".
• Organic bourbon geranium essential oil, 5 ml – the organically farmed version.

A word from the drugstore

With its fresh rose note, bourbon geranium brings an elegant touch to your skin care and your home, as long as you use it with a light hand. Wondering which version to choose or how to combine it with the products you already use? Come and talk to our team at Droguerie Perusset in Yverdon-les-Bains: we will gladly help you find the right blend.