Phytochemical Diversity, Pharmacological Relevance, and EmergingApplications of Geranium Species: A Review

The genus Geranium has long been known in traditional medicine. Its therapeutic potential has grown considerably over the past two decades in line with the broader movement toward plant-based remedies. Recent investigations have focused on the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Geranium species. Essential oils, glycosides, tannins, and phenolic acids are consistently reported across the genus, forming the chemical basis for a wide range of biological properties. Antioxidant, anti‑inflammatory, antimicrobial, and astringent activities of Geranium species, including G. asphodeloides, G. indicum, G. lucidum, G. macrorrhizum, G. nepalense, G. robertianum, G. sanguineum, and G. thunbergii, provide a potential rationale for their regular use in modern therapeutic practices. Outside medicinal applications, the phytochemical richness of Geranium species has implications for food preservation, cosmetics, agriculture, and related industries, where natural compounds may serve as effective and sustainable alternatives to synthetic agents. However, the conversion of these findings into industrial practice is limited by several challenges, including extract stability, variability in large‑scale production, and the lack of harmonized quality control standards, which limit the consistency and scalability of Geranium-based products. Furthermore, the genus is generally considered safe at controlled concentrations, comprehensive toxicological evaluations remain insufficient, particularly with respect to chronic exposure and organ‑specific effects. This review emphasizes the therapeutic promise of Geranium species and identifies a gap in current knowledge.