Pelargonium: Medicinal and Culinary Uses of Scented Geranium

For hundreds of years scented geraniums have brightened window boxes and kept pests out of gardens. Originating in South Africa, the scented geranium also has several medicinal and culinary uses. Scented geraniums are easy to grow and thrive in warm temperatures which has enhanced their popularity over the last 200 years. All scented geraniums have fragrant leaves and the essential oils have been used in numerous commercial products over the years. Here are some tips on using geranium leaves and flowers for culinary and medicinal uses.

Scented geraniums can grow just about anywhere and they thrive in temperatures between 65 and70 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants need 4-5 hours of direct sunlight each day, be it through a window or sitting out in the yard. Scented geraniums cannot survive temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit and when cultivating in cold regions the plant should be brought indoors.

Geraniums grow well in slightly acidic soil with adequate drainage. For growing indoors, the scented geranium should be potted in soil layered upon a small amount of gravel to allow for sufficient drainage. The planted pot should be placed upon a saucer to prevent water damage to counters, table tops, and windowsills. When planted outdoors the scented geranium should be placed in an area that receives plenty of sun and water.

When it comes to choosing a type of scented geranium there are many choices. Lemon, rose, cinnamon, peppermint, ginger, coconut, strawberry, orange, and pineapple are just a few of the more common scents to choose from. Fresh or dried leaves can be used in a number of ways.

For the most intense flavor pick leaves off the plant shortly after it blooms. To dry the leaves lay them flat on a tray lined with a paper towel for a day or two until dry. For quick drying, spread the leaves flat on a cookie sheet and bake at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-8 minutes. When the leaves are dry store them in an airtight container in a cool location, but not in the refrigerator.

Culinary Uses of Scented Geranium
Scented geraniums can be used to flavor just about anything in the kitchen. From beverages to baked goods, scented geraniums can be used to add flavor without the use of artificial substances. For example cinnamon geranium can make a wonderful cinnamon sugar without the actual cinnamon. To flavor sugar layer leaves and sugar alternately and store in an airtight container. In about 1 week the sugar will smell and taste like cinnamon and makes a nice treat of oatmeal, chai tea, and cookies.

The dried leaves of a scented geranium can also make wonderful flavored teas. Simply steep a couple of teaspoons of dried leaves in a cup of hot water or add a few leaves to your pot. You may also grind up the leaves and use them for "instant" tea or as a spice. To flavor baked goods line your pan or cookie sheet with a thin layer or scented geranium leaves, either fresh or dried and bake on top of them. After baking remove the leaves and the flavor remains. Scented geranium leaves can also be used to flavor sangria, fruit punch, lemonade, and sorbet. To make geranium jelly add a few scented leaves to a standard apple jelly recipe.

Medicinal Uses of Scented Geranium
Drinking tea made from scented geraniums can have a calming effect similar to chamomile and may be able to reduce stress and anxiety. The essential oil of scented geraniums has also been used in perfumes, insect repellents, astringents, and in aromatherapy oils. Scented geranium tea can be used to clean the face and is thought to help with pimples and acne because of its antibacterial properties.

Drop a few leaves of scented geranium or essential oil of geranium into a bottle of witch hazel and use as a toner on problematic skin. Those with sensitive skin may want to avoid using geranium essential oil because it can cause irritation and redness. Dried leaves of scented geranium can be added to bathwater as well. When ingested scented geranium can also help with stomach aches, diarrhea, and headaches. Scented geraniums may help to reduce the pains associated with arthritis.

Insecticide and deodorant sprays can also be made using the essential oil of scented geraniums. The essential oil of scented geraniums can be used to deodorize your home and pet (keep out of eyes and mouth). Dried geranium leaves can also be added to potpourri and sachets. Instead of moth balls try dried geranium leaves to repel insects in closets, dressers, and attics.