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Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006-.
Drug Levels and Effects
Summary of Use during Lactation
Geranium (Pelargonium species) leaves contain small amounts of dimethylamylamine which is a sympathomimetic stimulant. Rose geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) oil contains citronellol, citronellyl acetate, citronellyl formate, and geraniol. Applied topically, the essential oil may have antibacterial and antifungal activity and has been used for neuropathic pain. Topical application of fresh, whole geranium leaves, furry side against the skin has been used for cracked, painful nipples during breastfeeding.[1-3] Alternatively, geranium essential oil mixed into calendula cream has been advocated for the same purpose.[3] None of these claims have been scientifically validated.
Dietary supplements do not require extensive pre-marketing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Manufacturers are responsible to ensure the safety, but do not need to prove the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements before they are marketed. Dietary supplements may contain multiple ingredients, and differences are often found between labeled and actual ingredients or their amounts. A manufacturer may contract with an independent organization to verify the quality of a product or its ingredients, but that does not certify the safety or effectiveness of a product. Because of the above issues, clinical testing results on one product may not be applicable to other products. More detailed information about dietary supplements is available elsewhere on the LactMed Web site.
Drug Levels
Maternal Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Infant Levels. Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects in Breastfed Infants
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk
Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.
References
- 1.
- Matthews AJ. Geranium leaves for cracked nipples. Aust J Hosp Pharm. 1995;25:538–9.
- 2.
- Petrie KA, Peck MR. Alternative medicine in maternity care. Prim Care. 2000;27:117–36. [PubMed: 10739460]
- 3.
- Stapleton H. The use of herbal medicine in pregnancy and labour. Part II: Events after birth, including those affecting the health of babies. Complement Ther Nurs Midwifery. 1995;1:165–7. [PubMed: 9456733]
Substance Identification
Substance Name
Geranium
Scientific Name
Pelargonium sp.
Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. The U.S. government does not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.
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- Review Calendula.[Drugs and Lactation Database (...]Review Calendula.. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). 2006
- Review Castor.[Drugs and Lactation Database (...]Review Castor.. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). 2006
- Review Chamomile.[Drugs and Lactation Database (...]Review Chamomile.. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). 2006
- Review Green Tea.[Drugs and Lactation Database (...]Review Green Tea.. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). 2006
- Review Oregano.[Drugs and Lactation Database (...]Review Oregano.. Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). 2006
- Geranium - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)Geranium - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)
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