Rose geranium oil is extracted from the leaves and stem of the rose geranium plant.
Some people take rose geranium oil for nerve pain (neuropathy), depression, and for diarrhea. It is also applied directly to the skin for nerve pain, especially pain following shingles. Some people also use it topically as an astringent to tighten skin. Sometimes it is used for various skin conditions or to help with healing.
Rose geranium oil in sesame oil is placed in the nose with a dropper to help reduce nosebleeds in people with a hereditary disorder called hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.
Rose geranium oil is sometimes listed on the label of supplements promoted for weight loss, athletic performance, and body building. That's because supplement manufacturers claim that rose geranium oil contains small amounts of a stimulant drug called dimethylamylamine. However, laboratory analysis shows that this drug probably does not come from rose geranium oil. It is thought that these manufacturers have artificially added this drug to the supplement rather than obtaining it from rose geranium oil.
Rose geranium oil is used in foods and beverages as a flavoring.
In manufacturing, rose geranium oil is used as an inexpensive substitute for rose oil. It is also used as fragrance in soaps, cosmetics, and perfumes.
How does it work?
Rose geranium oil contains several chemicals that seem to have antibacterial effects. The oil might also have a soothing effect when applied to the skin and might decrease swelling.
- Nosebleeds : Nosebleeds are a common in people with a condition called hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Early research shows that applying drops of rose geranium oil in sesame oil in the nose reduces the severity of nosebleeds in people with this condition.
- Nerve pain, when applied to the skin : Early research shows that applying rose geranium oil to the skin can significantly reduce pain that follows shingles, a condition caused by the herpes virus. Strength of the product used matters. Rose geranium oil in a concentration of 100% appears to be about twice as effective as a 50% concentration.
- Diarrhea.
- Weight loss.
- Athletic performance.
- Other conditions.
Side Effects & Safety
Rose geranium oil is LIKELY SAFE when taken by mouth in food amounts. The safety of rose geranium oil when taken by mouth in larger amounts is not known. Rose geranium oil is POSSIBLY SAFE when applied to the skin or inside the nose. Some people can develop a rash or burning sensation when it is applied to the skin. Rose geranium oil can also cause eye irritation if applied to the face. When applied inside the nose, rose geranium oil can cause bad taste.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Rose geranium oil is LIKELY SAFE for pregnant and breast-feeding women when taken by mouth in food amounts. The safety of rose geranium oil when taken by mouth in larger amounts is not known; stick to food amounts.