Rose Geranium oil (Pelargonium Graveolens) is one of my favorite oils to use in BOTH soap and cosmetic formulations. In our research over the last few years as practicing Aromatherapists, we have found mountains of anecdotal evidence that Rose Geranium is a soothing, friend to the skin.  Rose Geranium is an integral part of our EPI (Eczema, Psoriasis, Inflammation) cream formula. It is a heavier oil with a sweet, citrus rose aroma. Due to the incredible cost of real Rose essential oil, Rose Geranium has soared in popularity.

The Science

Most scientific research focuses on a single constituent of essential oil to determine potential anti-inflammatory value, rather than the whole oil itself.  Essential oil can literally have hundreds of compounds which makes them difficult, time-consuming and costly to analyze.

The focus in Rose Geranium is on two primary constituents, the first being Citronellol (usually 18 – 55%) and the second being Geraniol (usually 8 – 15%).

Citronellol, also known as dihydrogeraniol is a modified terpene.  Plants produce organic compounds and terpenes are a large and diverse class of compounds that can have a therapeutic effect.

Rose Geranium Properties

Since anti-inflammatory prescriptions elicit a wide range of side effects for many people, the search for new forms of anti-inflammatories are under intense study by the pharmaceutical industry.  Rose Geranium has garnered intense interest.  This 2013 Pub-Med study goes into moderate detail on the use of Rose Geranium reducing ear & paw edema in lab mice.  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24103319/.

Rose Geranium Goat Milk Soap Results

The use of Rose Geranium oil in soap has demonstrated an ability to calm inflamed & irritated skin. Over time we have noticed a definitive improvement in skin elasticity, skin tone and reduction of scar visibility with a few of our older clients.  I own a 60 year-old wild-plant field manual that speaks to the use of Geranium (AKA Sweet or Rose) for reducing stretch marks after giving birth, so this oil definitely has a storied history.  This oil is our number #1 go to for AGING skin, especially if it is sun or chemically damaged.

If you have skin issues, don’t hesitate to give Rose Geranium goat milk soap a try for a few weeks.  By combining the power of this oil with the alpha-hydroxy acid in the Goat Milk, it is a great combination that may bring soothing relief to your skin.