Other names: Shepherd's needle, Scented geranium, Cranberry family. Although its homeland is South Africa, it has adapted very well to the Mediterranean basin countries. In our country, various types of geraniums are very common as ornamental plants in the Aegean and Mediterranean regions. They are perennial plants that can grow up to 60 cm tall, do not shed their leaves in winter, but are very sensitive to cold and especially frost.
Its round-sectioned, green-colored and hairy stems become woody over time. Its deeply indented, lace-like ornamental leaves release fruit, mint or other pleasant, spicy scents when crushed. Its lightly scented, light or dark pink or white flowers bloom from summer to autumn. Pelargonium species, which grow in all types of soil as long as there is plenty of sunlight, are propagated by seed or stem cuttings.
The leaves of the geranium species, which are grown as ornamental plants in many places due to their beautiful appearance, are added to various foods and drinks to give them scent and flavor. Frequently used in the perfumery industry, varieties of geraniums that smell of fruit, mint and even chamomile are also produced.
Chemical Composition: (I-citronellol, linalool, geraniol, menthol, sesquiterpenes, alcohols consisting of isomasselin, isovalerian and pelargonic acid) etheric oil, tanning agents, vitamin C, provitamin A etc. Flowers contain dyeing agents, pelargonine chloride etc.
In Which Diseases Is It Used: It has a constipating and blood-thinning effect. It is used against diarrhea and uterine bleeding.
Usage: In folk medicine, it is applied externally as a poultice to purulent wounds for heart patients, blood pressure, and diabetes. It is used in cooking to add scent to meals.
1. It has positive effects on the digestive system. It relieves indigestion. It facilitates digestion.
2. It removes excess gas from the stomach and intestines.
3. It stops diarrhea.
4. The species called Wild Geranium or Wormwood (P. endicherianum) has a worm-reducing effect.
However, to achieve these effects, all types of geranium should be taken in small doses. The infusion obtained by pouring 4 cups of boiling water over 2-5 grams of dried geranium leaves and letting it brew for 10-15 minutes can be drunk two or three cups a day.
It is also claimed that geranium species beautify the skin. To achieve this effect, the infusion described above is applied externally to the skin by rubbing.
