The essential oil is steam distilled from the leaves, stock, and flowers of the geranium plant. To achieve the highest quality and oil yield, geranium must be distilled just as – or right before – the plant begins to flower. Once in full bloom, it’s too late to get the maximum amount of oil (or, in some cases, any oil). Therefore, the stocks and leaves are harvested right before the plant flowers. When harvested, only part of the plant is cut away; some leaves remain to help the plant regrow. To maintain its benefits, the essential oil must be distilled within hours of harvest.