07/03/2022
Geranium Bourbon: Fresh, floral, sweet
Deep in the southern Indian Ocean off the coast of Madagascar is a beautiful volcanic island known for its lush tropical rainforests, colorful coral reefs, and idyllic white-sand beaches. It’s called Réunion Island, and for more than a century, it’s been recognized by the world’s perfume houses as the source of the finest Geranium essential oil. In fact, Geranium Bourbon—a unique variety native to Réunion Island—is considered to be the benchmark by which all other Geranium oils are judged.
Although the oil was once exclusively produced in Réunion Island, today Young Living Geranium Bourbon essential oil is extracted from steam-distilled plants grown and harvested in nearby Madagascar. It takes 900 pounds of flowers, leaves, and stems to make a single liter of the oil. But the work is well worth it to produce that exquisite lush, floral aroma loved by perfumers and essential oil enthusiasts around the world.
Geranium Bourbon Essential Oil next to Geranium flowers - Young Living Lavender Life Blog
How do you pronounce Geranium Bourbon?
When you see the word “bourbon,” you might think of the liquor by the same name. But Geranium Bourbon is actually a nod to Réunion Island’s previous name, “île Bourbon.” And as such, you pronounce the essential oil slightly differently: Geranium /bur-bone/.
How is Geranium Bourbon different than our signature Geranium essential oil?
Geranium Bourbon does have the same species name as Geranium, Pelargonium graveolens. However, Geranium Bourbon essential oil comes from plants grown and distilled in Madagascar in the southern Indian Ocean. The unique growing conditions in this region result in an essential oil that has a distinct aromatic constituent profile and therefore a different aroma from Geranium essential oil sourced from Egypt.
Geranium Bourbon oil has a distinctly sweeter and more complex scent than Egyptian Geranium, with rosy undertones reminiscent of Rose essential oil.
Benefits of Geranium Bourbon oil
Geranium Bourbon is prized for its countless benefits in aromatherapy. Here are a few reasons why this oil deserves a spot in your collection.
Helps promote a natural glow when applied topically to the skin
Creates an uplifting atmosphere when diffused
Adds shine and luster when applied to hair
Can be diffused during yoga or meditation to lull the mind into a sense of comfort
Supports the appearance of healthy-looking skin when added to serums or moisturizers
Promotes feelings of stability with its soothing scent
Blends well with Orange, Vanilla, and Peppermint oils
Can be used as a middle note to balance out your DIY perfume blends