Traditional Uses, Phytochemical Composition, and Pharmacological Activities of Pelargonium graveolens Essential Oil: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Background: Pelargonium graveolens essential oil (PGEO), commonly known as rose geranium oil, has been widely utilised in traditional medicine for managing inflammatory disorders, microbial infections, skin diseases, metabolic complications, and respiratory illnesses. Owing to its rich phytochemical composition and broad therapeutic potential, PGEO has enticed increasing scientific attention in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food-related applications. Aim: This comprehensive review aims to systematically summarise the traditional uses, phytochemical composition, extraction approaches, and pharmacological activities of PGEO, with particular importance on its therapeutic potential and safety aspects. Methods: Literature published between 2000 and 2025 was systematically gathered from electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Springer, Wiley Online Library, and Google Scholar. Similarly, the relevant peer-reviewed articles focusing on ethnomedicinal applications, phytochemistry, extraction methods, biological activities, and toxicity profiles of PGEO were critically analysed. Results: The current findings show that PGEO incorporates diverse bioactive constituents, predominantly citronellol, geraniol, citronellyl formate, linalool, and menthone, which significantly contribute to its pharmacological effects. Experimental studies have revealed that PEGO possesses significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-cancer, antidepressant, and anti-arthritic properties in both in vitro and in vivo models. Hydro-distillation and steam distillation were documented as the most commonly applied extraction methods. Yet, geographical origin, environmental factors, and extraction techniques often modify the essential oil compositions and might influence biological efficacy. Additionally, limited clinical evidence and inadequate toxicity standardisation remain major disputes for therapeutic translation. Conclusion: PGEO embodies a promising natural source of biologically active compounds, potentially with rich applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and complementary medicine. However, concerning human applications, safety, efficacy, and therapeutic reliability are yet to be validated through standardised toxicological investigations, mechanistic studies, and clinical trials. Major Findings: PGEO possesses various pharmacological activities, principally attributed to citronellol, geraniol, and linalool. Though existing solid experimental evidence, clinical validation, and toxicity normalisation are fundamental for its therapeutic development.