Essential oil and bioactive compounds from rose geranium (Pelargonium Graveolens): Phytochemical profile and pharmacological significance

Essential oils comprise volatile aromatic compounds responsible for their characteristic fragrance and biological activities. Pelargonium graveolens L'Hér. (Geraniaceae), native to South Africa, is an important aromatic medicinal plant widely used in aromatherapy. GC–MS analysis of its essential oil has identified key marker constituents, including citronellyl formate, geranyl formate, guaia-6,9-diene, geraniol, linalool, and isomenthone, while semi-automated HPTLC further confirmed the presence of linalool and geraniol. Traditionally, the plant has been used to treat wounds, abscesses, fever, colic, urinary disorders, colds, sore throat, haemorrhoids, and gonorrhoea. Owing to its aromatic nature, P. graveolens exhibits sedative, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and calming properties and is effective in relieving premenstrual and menopausal symptoms, circulatory disorders, nausea, tonsillitis, and digestive problems. Due to high demand, it is commercially cultivated, and its oil serves as an economical substitute for rose oil in the fragrance industry. This review highlights its therapeutic significance and future drug discovery potential.