Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) is a species of geranium native to South Africa. It is renowned for its fragrant leaves that produce a rose-like scent, making it popular in perfumery and aromatherapy. This plant is valued for its aromatic properties and its versatility in various applications, from cosmetics to medicinal uses.

Botanical Classification:

    Kingdom: Plantae

    Order: Geraniales

    Family: Geraniaceae

    Genus: Pelargonium

    Species: Pelargonium graveolens

Plant Characteristics:

Pelargonium graveolens is characterized by:

    Leaves: The leaves are deeply lobed and have a distinct rose-like fragrance when crushed. They are typically green with a slightly fuzzy texture.

    Flowers: The plant produces small, pink to reddish flowers, which are less prominent compared to the aromatic foliage.

    Growth Habit: A perennial shrub that can reach a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. It has a bushy and spreading growth habit, with a well-branched structure.

    Soil and Light: Prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight to partial shade. It is well-suited to a range of soil types and can tolerate some drought conditions.

Chemical Composition and Structure:

The chemical composition of Pelargonium graveolens includes:

    Essential Oils: The leaves contain essential oils with key compounds such as geraniol, citronellol, and linalool, which contribute to its distinctive rose-like fragrance.

    Flavonoids: Present in the leaves, providing antioxidant properties.

    Tannins: Contributing to the astringent properties of the plant.

Uses and Benefits:

    Aesthetic: Valued for its aromatic leaves, which are used in perfumes and as a fragrance in cosmetics.

    Cosmetic: Extracts of Pelargonium graveolens are used in skincare products for their fragrance and potential benefits, including soothing and balancing properties.

INCI Functions:

Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it provides the possibility of enhancing, masking or adding fragrance to the final product, increasing its marketability. It is able to create a perceptible pleasant odour, masking a bad smell. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant or distinctive scent in a cosmetic product. 

    Medicinal: Traditionally used in herbal medicine for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to have calming effects, though scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited.

    Culinary: Although not commonly used in culinary applications, the leaves can be used to infuse flavor into beverages and dishes, offering a subtle rose-like taste.

Applications:

    Gardening: Often grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and fragrant leaves. It is also used in herb gardens and container planting.

    Cosmetics: Essential oil extracts used in perfumes, lotions, and other skincare products for their aromatic and potential therapeutic properties.

    Medicinal: Employed in traditional medicine for its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, though scientific support is limited.

    Culinary: Leaves used in small quantities to flavor dishes and beverages.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

    Environmental Impact: Generally non-invasive and adaptable to various garden environments; contributes to garden aesthetics and biodiversity.

    Safety: This ingredient is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used as directed. Individuals with allergies to Geraniaceae family plants should be cautious.