Pelargonium

Pelargonium is a genus of flowering plants that includes the geraniums. Essential oils distilled from certain Pelargonium species are used in foods and beverages as flavorings, contributing rose-like or citrusy aromatic notes, and they also exhibit antimicrobial activity that can assist in preserving certain products. In food processing, these essential oils must be used within regulatory limits, since concentrated essential oils can be potent and affect flavor balance. Pelargonium extracts also find application in fragrances and traditional remedies, but within food science their relevance centers on aroma contribution, antimicrobial effects, and the quality control needed to ensure consistent composition of the volatile oil fraction.