Zdravets has a long history of traditional use in Bulgaria, where the name and the plant itself is a symbol of health. Growing wild at high altitude on the Balkan Peninsula, the oil extracted from the plant is known for its therapeutic properties.

Although it is a different species than its better-known "cousin" the geranium, it shares some common properties, particularly its affinity for the female reproductive system. It is also useful for relaxation and relaxation before bed. In perfumery, its rich, earthy-spicy aroma allows the different aromatic notes to harmonize, giving it resistance and greater longevity.

Also called Bulgarian geranium, geranium essential oil should not be confused with geranium oils from the botanical family Pelargonium. It is for this reason that the two species do not have a similar aroma. You can read more about the other two varieties in the respective articles:

Harvest
from June to October

Part of the plant
The leaves and stem

Extraction method
Steam distillation

Oil for peace and health

Geranium has five-lobed (palm-shaped) leaves that are fragrant when crushed. Cultivated as an ornamental plant in temperate regions, where it is used as a flowering ground cover, various varieties can be seen, the colors of which range from white to pink to purple.

The plant is used in traditional herbal medicine. Geranium essential oil is also used in aromatherapy, and can help treat the female reproductive system and, if inhaled, can help relieve symptoms of menopause. It contains flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, phenolic acids, pigments, vitamins, and mineral salts.

One of the many components of the essential oil is the sesquiterpene ketone germacrone, which has been shown to have high and selective antimicrobial activity.

Because it is filled with beneficial plant waxes and crystals, it becomes solid at room temperature, similar to coconut oil, vanilla or rose oil. These waxes and crystals are an essential part of the plant's beneficial properties and help the oil maintain its long shelf life (over 7 years) and aromatic qualities.

Botanical name Geranium macrorrhizum	Aroma profile Grassy, earthy, slightly floral
family geraniaceae	fragrance Middle note
Origin The South-Eastern Alps and the Balkan Peninsula	application It has a brightening effect on the skin, natural sun protection and anti-aging effect, capillary strengthening, antispasmodic and anti-allergic effect.

Geranium essential oil – benefits and uses

Application and effect

Organic geranium essential oil improves the skin's protective properties, offers a unique natural UV filter and brightens the complexion. Applying this remarkable essential oil can remove blackheads and prevent the appearance of fine lines.

Dilute for topical use. Works great in perfumes and colognes with its great staying power. Excellent for skincare serums: use diluted with rosehip , tamanu or jojoba oils . Before applying to visible areas such as the face, be sure to do a sensitivity test on the crook of your elbow.

In skin care, Zdravets is claimed to have a softening effect on the appearance of skin imbalances, such as melasma and scars.

Geranium essential oil crystallizes at temperatures below room temperature. Before use, it must be heated in a water bath to return it to a liquid state. Once mixed with a base vegetable oil, geranium essential oil does not crystallize.

Mental Application: Calms, balances the mind, improves mood, helps with chronic fatigue and insomnia	Psychological action: Relaxing, balancing, stimulating
Physical Application: Blackheads, clogged pores, wrinkles, menopause, menstrual pain, age spots	Physical action: Antispasmodic, antiseptic, antiallergic, regenerating and antioxidant

Recipes with geranium essential oil

Aromatic bath salts for muscle fatigue

1/2 cup sea salt and 1/2 cup baking soda
12 drops geranium essential oil
10 drops lavender essential oil

Mix the dry ingredients and add the essential oils, shaking very well. You can use 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bath salts for feet, and for a full bath use 1 cup of bath salts.

Anti-wrinkle cream with geranium

Melt the cocoa butter, coconut butter and wheat germ butter in a water bath. Stir the mixture, being careful not to boil. Add the rose water and continue stirring. Remove from heat and add the essential oils. If the geranium oil has crystallized, heat it in a water bath at 40-45 degrees until it becomes liquid. Pour into a clear, glass jar with a screw cap.

Body cream – dry skin

The beeswax and base oils should be melted in a water bath (with a temperature of 60 degrees) until homogenized. Add the geranium essential oil and mix the whole mixture well. Then put the mixture in a dry jar while it is still warm. Finally, you can close it with a cap after the cream has completely cooled.