Star of the balconies, this cousin of geranium is highly prized in herbal medicine for its antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It acts on respiratory ailments: colds, flu, bronchitis, sinusitis … We tell you all about the benefits of pelargonium…
IDENTITY RECORD
Name: Pelargonium, pink geranium, Cape geranium
Scientific name : Pelargonium roseum
Botanical family: Geraniaceae
Parts used: roots
Indications: bronchitis, cough, respiratory diseases of the ENT sphere, sinusitis, influenza
Preparation: mother tincture, essential oil
Pelargonium (or rose geranium for aromatherapy enthusiasts), an annual plant measuring about 60 cm, was discovered in South Africa. It is also called the “Cape geranium”. Grown in temperate regions, there are several varieties with tuberous roots, leaves, as well as fruits.
Very scented, pelargonium exhibits flowers colorful (pink, red or white) that resemble geranium and it is often used for interior decorations. In addition, it offers medicinal benefits widely used in herbal medicine.
The health benefits of pelargonium
Nicknamed “Florists’ Geranium”, the pelargonium strengthens immune defenses thanks to the antioxidant substances it contains. It acts effectively on the device respiratory and the infections.
The plant is often used in winter and serves as a substitute for antibiotics. This powerful ally reduces the duration of colds and is used in acute bronchitis, sinusitis, allergy, flu and to prevent cold season infections.
Indeed its roots contain coumarins (aromatic substances) which would be responsible for an inhibitory action of bacteria frequently involved in respiratory infections, by preventing their attachment to the bronchial mucous membranes.
Pelargonium and immunity
In addition to its virtues sanitizing, pelargonium has the ability to strengthen the immune system in case of fatigue, stress or loss of tone, very common during winter periods.
Thus, its roots have the particularity of treating respiratory problems, in particular the common cold, influenza, bronchitis, tonsillitis, etc … Pelargonium therefore acts as an expectorant, a anti-inflammatory and one antibacterial.
It also contains gallic acids capable of inducing the formation of cells playing a role of messenger in the body’s response to external aggressions and helps stimulate white blood cells macrophages.
- Pelargonium is recommended in case of fatigue, loss of tone.
- Its essential oil heals dermatological disorders like eczema, psoriasis, cracks …
- As a poultice, it is effective against burns and promotes healing sores.
- It relieves digestive disorders as well as joint and muscle pain.
- This plant is suitable for people anxious, stressed and suffering from nervous system disorders.
- It soothes the symptoms of Insect bites and gives radiance to the skin.
- It helps to fight against aging cellular and prevent cancer.
- It processes the hemorrhoids, fights infections and yeast infection buccal.
How to take advantage of the benefits of pelargonium?
Several forms and methods of preparation make it possible to benefit from the benefits of pelargonium such as: essential oils, creams, capsules, tinctures, lotions, balms, infusions of leaves, roots… To treat respiratory problems, it is recommended to take 20 to 30 drops 3 times a day from one mother tincture.
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This remedy is also used in gargle, for throat and mouth infections. In massage, it is used in case of great fatigue, asthenia or stress. On the other hand, as a poultice, it treats hemorrhoids.
To optimize its action and treat winter aggressions well, it is often associated with plantain, propolis, pollen,echinacea or at theacerola.
Contraindications and adverse effects
Pelargonium is recommended to treat respiratory ailments and its extracts are well tolerated. However, its essential oil is not recommended during the pregnancy and thefeeding with milk. And its use for children should be prescribed by medical advice.
But, after taking the pelargonium root extracts, some patients have reported skin rashes, mild stomach aches, and stomach pain. nervous system disorders. The risks of interaction with coumarin derivatives cannot be ruled out as this may lead to an increase in the effect. anticoagulant.
There are many benefits to taking pelargonium, however, it is never a substitute for DMARD. It is more often recommended as part of an additive treatment.
Have you ever used the benefits of pelargonium to treat respiratory ailments? Share your experiences with us …
