Geraniums also known as Pelargoniums are fabulous-looking multicolored blooms related to the genus of flowering annual, biennial, or perennial shrubs from the family of Geraniaceae consisting of over 200 species. Also called cranesbills, the plant is native to South Africa and made its way into the rest of the world around the 18th century. Egyptians used them extensively in traditional medicine and adored these beautiful blooms for augmenting skin radiance and aiding hair growth. Laden with therapeutic properties, geranium extracts are used to treat skin anomalies, reduce chronic inflammation, balance hormonal disturbances, treat hemorrhoids, and combat depressive disorders. These edible flowers have a tangy, lemony flavor and are little spicy on the tongue. Nonetheless, everyone loves to sprinkle petals of this bloom over desserts and use them in coolers and herbal decoctions. The brewed leaves of its plant are commonly used in herbal teas.
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Holistic And Beauty Benefits Of Geranium Extracts
Besides being edible, geranium is used to make perfumes, soaps, face washes, shampoos, and hair conditioners. Owing to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, the herb extracts can augment physical, mental, and emotional health besides being effective in the treatment of skin woes such as atopic dermatitis, itchy skin, insect bites, and eczema. The leaves bear essential oil which is steam distilled and is popular as geranium oil. It has been used in aromatherapy treatments for centuries and oozes a floral, calming, meditative effect on the body. This sweet-smelling oil promotes emotional wellness and is a powerful deodorant. It is a circulatory oil which means it exits the body through perspiration. Thus, by eliminating body odour, this organic deodorant makes you smell like a flower!
Benefits Of Geranium Tea
Good to taste and great to smell, the tea of this flower is known for its surprising health benefits. Some of them are as follows:
Lowers Stress
Geranium extracts are known to have a very soothing impact on the nervous system. This herb helps balance stress hormone levels in the form of herbal tea. Laden with calming properties, the tea can be prepared by brewing fresh or dried leaves. The herb contains organic compounds that are supposed to have a positive effect on the endocrine system as well.
Decreases Inflammation
Geranium tea has been consumed since times immemorial to soothe inflammation of the body. The tea has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help to relax sore joints, achy muscles, and inflammation of the cardiovascular system.
Relieves Chronic Pain
The analgesic ability of geranium tea has made this drink popular across the globe. The brewed leaves of the tea release endorphins that can help cure mild to severe headaches, body aches, and acute migraines.
Acts As An Immunity Booster
The herb is replete with antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Sipping on a cup of geranium tea or chewing on the raw leaves of the rose-scented geranium will help the body flush out antibacterial compounds. This also strengthens the immune system and promotes quick recovery from various health disorders. The tea is also a fabulous cold and flu reliever.
Aids Digestion Process
Drinking a cup of geranium tea helps the gastrointestinal system get back into good health as the organic compounds present in geranium can eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens. The tea can be of immense help if one is suffering from bloating, stomach aches or cramping.
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Slows Down Alzheimer’s Progression
When it comes to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, primary immune cells in the brain (microglial cells) that control the central nervous system get affected due subsequent release of inflammatory factors including nitric oxide. Nitric oxide produced in high concentrations has been associated with neurodegeneration that causes major development and progression of these diseases. Geranium tea is known to have impressive anti-neuroinflammatory effects that can delay the progress of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Benefits Of Geranium Extract For Hair
Promotes Hair Growth
Geranium oil helps to improve blood flow to the scalp by stimulating circulation of the scalp. The nutrients in geranium extracts strengthen hair, reducing breakage and split ends. It nourishes the hair follicles, thus reducing hair loss and encouraging new growth.
Balances Oil Production
The geranium extract helps to balance oil production on the scalp, which can benefit dry and oily hair. By reducing excess sebum that might lead to greasy hair or clogged pores, it prevents the build-up of oil, reduces flakiness, and maintains a healthy scalp environment.
Improves Hair Texture
Regular use of geranium oil can make hair softer and more manageable. The oil can aid the natural shine of your manes, making them look healthier and more vibrant. Its anti-fungal and antibacterial properties can help combat chronic dandruff and soothe an irritated scalp.
Conclusion
Geranium a beautiful biennial, perennial, or annual flower is native to South Africa. A popular garden plant and medicinal herb, its leaves consist of medicinal elements and are brewed for a pleasant-tasting rose-flavored tea. The essential oil of the flower is acknowledged widely for its health benefits. Geranium extracts have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Aromatic geranium tea has many wellness incentives and is concocted by steeping leaves into boiling water. It helps people suffering from headaches, sore muscles, body pain, skin problems, stomach issues, and neurodegenerative disorders.
(This article is reviewed by M Sowmya Binu Health And Nutrition Expert)
Author Profile:
Preeti Sharma:
Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
- Effect of Inhalation of Aroma of Geranium Essence on Anxiety and Physiological Parameters during First Stage of Labor in Nulliparous Women: a Randomized Clinical Trial
Fahimeh Rashidi Fakari, 1 Mahbubeh Tabatabaeichehr, 1 , Hossian Kamali, 2 Farzaneh Rashidi Fakari, 3 and Maryam Naseri
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4484988
- https://www.essencejournal.com/vol2/issue2/pdf/2-2-8.1.pdf