We first started growing fragrant geraniums to get a lovely rose scent via steam distillation of a plant. Rose essential is extremely expensive and most often extracted via solvents. Scented geraniums are not actually geraniums but, rather, pelargoniums. But, pelargoniums do share characteristics with geraniums. Both contain geraniol (a chemical component that keeps insects away and is antibacterial). Attar of Rose and Rose pelargoniums also share traits with rose essential oil--chiefly, calming skin issues. Pelargonium distillate is antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, antimycotic and anti-inflammatory. As a toner, it firms skin, and can help with acne, impetigo, eczema and other itches.
Fragrant (not) Geraniums
Posted by Barbara Mansfield on