GERANIUM: THE POOR MAN’S ROSE

This ubiquitous, non-demanding, fragrant bloom is often treated as a cheaper replacement for the luxe, precious rose oil. However, this gorgeous essential oil is one of my favourite scents. Here are 5 facts that you should know about geranium.

The Legend

It is believed that once Prophet Mohammed went to the mountain to pray and hung his sweaty shirt on a shrub to dry. When he came back to pick it up, he found it covered with fragrant flowers. That was the birth of geranium. There are several other myths and beliefs surrounding these flowers. One of my favourite stories is that pink geranium was often used for love spells. I am not surprised. Its sensuous fragrance can easily create an aura for romance.

All That It Needs

As I said it is one of the most non-demanding flowers. In fact, it’s hard to not grow it right. The flowers bloom in any soil, love sunshine and need very little water. While geranium grows in many countries like France, Spain, Italy, Morocco, Egypt and China, one of the best varieties grow in Ooty in south India. Try growing these colourful blooms in your balcony, terrace, patio, or even window sill – it will not only add fragrance and colour to your environment but through its example will show you how to give without expecting anything in return.

Rose-like

Geranium essential oil contains an ingredient called geraniol that’s also present in rose oil. Since, some varieties of geranium smell a lot like rose, the essential oil of the plant is often used in formulations to either replace or complement the scent of rose. Geranium is also a great healer for skin and hence it is often used in skincare formulations to get the benefits of rose and to have a “rose-like” smell.

The All Rounder

Geranium essential oil is antibacterial, antifungal, antispasmodic and a great cleanser. It’s fresh, floral, spicy smell with overtones of citrusy notes, makes it a wonderful uplifting scent. Due to these qualities it is extensively used in aromatherapy formulations for skincare, haircare and for emotional healing.

As I Like It

I use geranium essential oil in all my (Jhelum Loves) formulations like Purifier Face Wash, Soothsayer Face Mist, Divinity Face Cream, Rejuvenator Face Oil and Energiser Shampoo. I also like to wear this aromatic oil as is as a perfume. However, I have also created a blend with it that I like wearing. Here’s the recipe:

100 ml dark rum

1 drop of cinnamon oil

2 drops of vanilla oil

5 drops of rosewood oil

4 drops of cedarwood oil

8 drops of geranium oil

2 drops of neroli oil

Mix it all together in a bottle and let it rest for 2 weeks. Use as a body mist.

‘Humble Geranium’
Though this ubiquitous, non-demanding bloom
is popularly known as the poor man’s rose,
for me, it is not ‘poor’ at all.
Its rich, complex fragrance
makes it one of my favourite single-note scents.
As a daily wear,
I love rubbing it on my hair,
behind my knees and ears.
If you wish to compose a scent,
here’s a recipe to try.
In a large peg of dark rum,
add a drop each of neroli, vanilla, cinnamon.
Throw in four drops of cedarwood oil
and top it up with six drops of geranium.
Pour this scented mix in a glass bottle
and let it rest for two weeks.
Use it then, liberally, as a body mist.