Geranium and Neroli: Aromatic Benefits for Mind and Skin in Ayurveda

Ever wondered how certain fragrances can energize us or elevate our mood? Are fragrances really that powerful?

Fragrances can have a big impact on our mind and body because of the close connection between our sense of smell and our brain. And certain fragrances are known to be especially beneficial for both the mind and the skin. Let us talk about two such fragrances and their aromatic benefits – Geranium and Neroli.

Geranium

Geranium is a flowering plant in the genus Pelargonium, with vibrant blooms and a pleasant fragrance. It is known for its antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent properties. Geranium essential oil extracted from the plant’s leaves and stems is valued in skincare for skin health and has a balancing effect on the mind and body.

Key benefits of Geranium

Geranium has several benefits for the skin like:

• Its astringent properties help reduce wrinkles and slow signs of aging.
• Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce skin irritation.
• It balances sebum, helps cleanse the skin, enhance skin tone, and brings a natural glow.
• Its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help fight acne and scars.
• It helps reduce stress and anxiety.
• It is an invigorating mood booster.
• It helps provide improved focus and mental clarity.

What is in it?

Some of the key active compounds in geranium which deliver its benefits include:

1. Citronellol – Gives a citrus aroma and exhibits antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties which soothe the skin and help reduce irritation and oxidative stress.
2. Geraniol – Gives a rose-like fragrance and is known for antimicrobial and antifungal properties that support skin health and appearance.
3. Linalool – Gives a floral fragrance and is known to reduce stress and anxiety while its antimicrobial properties help cleanse the skin effectively.
4. Eugenol – Gives a spicy aroma with strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that improve skin health.
5. Terpineol – Known to have a calming effect, enhancing the mood and providing stress relief.
6. Tannins – They provide astringent properties which help in tighten the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and making the skin firm.
7. Flavonoids and Polyphenols – Exhibit strong antioxidant     properties helping protect the skin from oxidative damage and support skin rejuvenation.

Geranium and Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, Geranium is valued for its therapeutic properties and often used in the form of essential oil.

1. Skin Health – Its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties make it beneficial for treating skin conditions like acne, dryness, and irritation. It is also used to promote a healthy glow to the skin.
2. Balancing Doshas – Geranium is believed to balance all three Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, making it a versatile herb in Ayurveda.
3. Hormonal health – Its mood boosting property can help ease menopausal symptoms and support hormonal balance.
4. Emotional health – Geranium’s floral aroma has an uplifting effect on the mind and can provide calm and help reduce stress and anxiety.
5. Would healing properties – Geranium has antimicrobial properties that can help heal the wounds faster.

Neroli 

Neroli is an essential oil derived from Citrus aurantium amara (bitter orange) flower. It is a famous ingredient in skincare, perfumery, and aromatherapy with a rich floral and citrus aroma and provides various benefits to the skin.

Historically, Neroli has been used across various cultures for its therapeutic and beautifying properties. The name Neroli is believed to have originated from an Italian princess, Anne-Marie de la Tremoille who popularized it as a perfume in the 17th century. Ayurvedic texts mention the origin of the word Neroli from the Sanskrit word “Nagaranj” whereas the French believe the name originated from the town of Nerola near Rome.

Benefits of Neroli for the skin:

1. It stimulates skin cell regeneration, improves skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles.
2. It balances sebum, promoting an even skin tone.
3. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help heal skin infections and support skin health.
4. It is an anti-inflammatory and helps soothe the skin.
5. It is rich in antioxidants that help fight free radicals and prevent photo-aging.
6. It has a calming and uplifting aroma that helps reduce stress and anxiety and has a soothing effect on the mind.

What is in it?

The major components of Neroli include:

• Linalool – This compound provides Neroli its floral sweet fragrance and has a calming and relaxing effect.
• Linalyl Acetate – Contributes to its sweet and fruity fragrance and soothing effect.
• Limonene – A potent antioxidant and antimicrobial agent that helps protect the skin cells and tissues from damage. It also gives Neroli its citrus smell.
• Nerolidol – Offers anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties and gives a woody floral note to its aroma.
• Alpha-terpineol and E-farnesol – Offer anti-inflammatory and calming properties.

Neroli and Ayurveda

Neroli holds a special place in the ancient science of Ayurveda because of its balancing and calming properties. It is used to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit and support hormonal health.

1. Balance the Doshas – Neroli helps calm the Vata and Pitta Dosha which are associated with stress and emotional imbalance.
2. Skin health – Neroli is valued for its rejuvenating effect on the skin, helping improve elasticity and fight signs of aging.
3. Emotional well-being – Neroli’s aroma is uplifting and calming and helps reduce anxiety.
4. Promote good sleep – Neroli’s soothing fragrance can help enhance sleep quality.
5. Holistic wellness – Neroli supports overall well-being by reducing stress and offering relaxation.

Just Nature Nothing Else - Natural Fragrances in Ayurvedic Skincare

Natural fragrances play a big role in Ayurvedic skincare by harmonizing the mind, body, and spirit, and enhancing holistic well-being. Discover the magic of Geranium and Neroli in Ciamor Balancing Face Cleanser and Ciamor Clarifying Face Scrub. They can enhance skin health, help balance the Doshas and promote overall well-being. Aromatic compounds are believed to stimulate pranaa – the flow of vital life force or energy. This ancient science stresses the therapeutic benefits of natural fragrances, making them an integral part of Ayurvedic healing and lifestyle.