Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens)

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) is a member of the Geraniaceae family, native to South Africa, Madagascar, and Comoros. Traditionally, its leaves, essential oil, and stems have been used for infusions, decoctions, and poultices.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, carminative, and antispasmodic actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and traditional chinese medicine.

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Geranium
Scientific Name	Pelargonium graveolens
Plant Family	Geraniaceae
Genus	Pelargonium
Species	graveolens
Native Range	South Africa, Madagascar, Comoros
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Essential Oil, Stems
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Carminative, Antispasmodic
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Decoction, Poultice

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Pelargonium graveolens
Common Name: Geranium
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Zonal Geranium, Pelargonium, Pennyroyal
Plant Family: Geraniaceae
Genus: Pelargonium

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 30 to 100 centimeters.
Leaves: Broad leaves with upper surface typically darker green and lower surface lighter green, bearing prominent stomatal bands.
Flowers: Flowers with five lobed petals arranged in a whorl, actinomorphic, with five stamens and a single superior ovary, typically displaying a range of colors including red, pink, and white, often occurring in clusters of two to five
Stems: Cylindrical, herbaceous, upright growth habit with opposite branching, smooth surface, and prominent vascular bundles.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Decoction
Poultice
Oil Infusion

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: In herbal literature, noted as a moderate anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Carminative: Commonly referenced as a calming carminative, within digestive system contexts.
Antispasmodic: As described in traditional systems, a gentle antispasmodic, in spasm-related situations.
Astringent: In herbal texts, considered a mild astringent, in tissue-toning contexts.

Active Compounds

Essential Oil: Volatile plant-derived substances commonly present in leaves and flowers.
Flavonoid: Naturally occurring polyphenols that contribute to pigmentation and structural chemistry.
Terpenoid: Plant-produced compounds commonly found in essential oils and resins.
Coumarin: A group of secondary metabolites present in seeds, roots, and leaves.

Modern Research Overview

Modern scientific investigation of this plant has focused on identifying its chemical constituents and examining their properties in controlled research settings. Comprehensive study summaries will be incorporated into this section as additional sources are reviewed.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: General precautions have been noted regarding the use of this herb.
Contraindications: There is insufficient evidence to determine specific contraindications related to this herb.
Allergies: Information regarding allergic responses to this herb is limited.
Drug Interactions: The potential for interactions with prescription medications has not been extensively studied.
Toxicity: There is insufficient evidence to determine the toxic potential of this herb.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Infusions are commonly prepared using hot water to release aromatic and soluble components.
Decoction: Decoctions are made by heating plant material in water for an extended time.
Poultice: Poultices involve external application of prepared plant matter.
Capsule: Powdered plant material is enclosed in a capsule for oral consumption.
Tincture: Alcohol is used as a solvent to extract plant constituents over time.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.