Background

• The genus Geranium includes 422 species of flowering plants found in temperate and mountainous regions in the tropics. The plant is also known as "cranesbill" because the seeds have the same shape as the bill of a crane.
• Geranium and Pelargonium can be told apart by looking at their flowers, as Geranium has symmetrical flowers and Pelargonium has irregular petals. The subject of this monograph is Geranium species.
• Historically, all parts of the Geranium plant were used by Native Americans to treat diarrhea, bleeding, and swelling. It has also been used in perfumes and soaps.
• Geranium has been studied for its antibacterial properties and as a mosquito repellent. However, there are conflicting results.

References

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