Rose geranium oil is a wonderful rose-scented essential oil that has been used in herbal medicines for centuries. The rose geranium essential oil benefits include its ability to act as a natural anti-depressant, an analgesic for arthritic and nerve pain, and an anti-inflammatory for skin conditions. It is a popular choice for a soothing oil in aromatherapy.

Rose Geranium Oil Benefit & Uses

Unlike many essential oils, rose geranium essential oil is also considered highly safe for ingestion. Geranium oils are given the GRAS status (Generally Recognized As Safe) and approved by the USFDA for food use. Let us look at the science-backed benefits and uses of rose geranium oil in detail. 

Anti-inflammatory

The main constituents of the oil – citronellol, geraniol, and linalool – are known to possess anti-inflammatory activities. A 2013 animal model showed that the topical application of rose geranium oil helped reduce the inflammation in rat paws and ears. The research study concluded that the essential oil may have good potential for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs. 

How To Use: A few drops, diluted with a carrier oil, can be topically applied to reduce inflammation and pain in the case of rheumatoid arthritis, canker sores, and bacterial or fungal skin infections.

Relaxant in Aromatherapy

Rose geranium oil is often used in aromatherapy to calm anxiety and other nervous conditions. Anecdotal evidence shows that the oil works as an anti-depressant and helps lift the spirits. It can be useful during mood swings related to hormonal shifts as it both soothing and energizing. While there are no studies that can back this claim, a 2017 study concluded that the fragrance of rose oil helped in physiological and psychological relaxation, and had analgesic and anti-anxiety effects. Rose geranium oil has a lighter but similar fragrance notes as rose oil.  

How to Use: Use 5-6 drops in a diffuser with citrus-like neroli, bergamot, or sweet orange to create an uplifting fragrant space.

Skincare

Rose geranium oil is often used to treat skin conditions due to its astringent, antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Topical usage with a carrier oil can help reduce acne and eliminate bacterial infections. While large studies are limited, a herbal blend of rose geranium oil and Oliveria decumbens oil helped improve collagen formation and wound healing in mice. 

How to Use: This essential oil helps balance serum, which is useful for skin that is not too oily or too dry. Use it with a skin-enhancing carrier oil that is suitable for your skin.

May Reduce Nerve Pain

A blend of rose geranium with either one or more oils like lavender,

bergamot, blue chamomile, eucalyptus, or tea tree can help significantly reduce neuropathic pain. 

How to Use: Topical application of the oil blend on the affected area can help reduce the pain. However, make sure you do a patch test on your arm to avoid rashes.

Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia (Nose Bleeds)

A 6-month study revealed that the topical application of a sesame/rose geranium oil compound significantly reduced the severity of twenty participants with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (nose bleeds).

How to Use: The oil blend is typically put in the nose with a dropper. It is advisable to check with your health advisor on the amount and times that you should use the oil blend. 

May Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Rose-scented geranium has been used in traditional Tunisian folk medicine for the treatment of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). In a rat study, it was found that the hypoglycemic effect of rose geranium oil was significantly more effective than that of glibenclamide, a known anti-diabetic drug. 

How to Use: Human studies are required to fully understand the therapeutic potential of this oil for people with diabetes. While the antioxidant-rich oil has proven to reduce oxidative stress related to diabetes, professional medical advice should be sought on the exact dosage as a safe alternative antihyperglycemic drug.