Can geranium (Geraniaceae) lower the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)?

Mar 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Geranium has certain anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help alleviate inflammatory responses and immune system abnormalities. An accelerated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is often an indicator of chronic inflammation, infection, tumors, or autoimmune diseases in the body. Therefore, in treating these underlying conditions, geranium may indirectly help reduce the erythrocyte sedimentation rate by alleviating inflammation and immune responses.

ESR refers to the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Geranium might assist in reducing the erythrocyte sedimentation rate to some extent, but it is not a medication directly targeting high ESR. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended.

Geranium possesses certain anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating effects, capable of alleviating inflammatory responses and abnormal immune system activity. An accelerated erythrocyte sedimentation rate typically indicates the presence of chronic inflammation, infection, tumors, or autoimmune diseases in the body. Therefore, during treatment of these underlying conditions, geranium may indirectly help reduce the ESR by alleviating inflammation and immune reactions.

Geranium is not a medication specifically targeting elevated ESR. However, its functions of dispelling wind-damp and promoting blood circulation can help relieve joint pain and swelling caused by conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, thereby potentially reducing inflammation and helping lower ESR. The effect of geranium in reducing erythrocyte sedimentation rate may vary among individuals, and not all patients with high ESR are suitable candidates for treatment with geranium.

In daily life, consuming more foods rich in vitamin C, high-quality protein, and fiber can help enhance immunity, promote the production of antioxidants in the body, and reduce inflammatory responses, thereby lowering the erythrocyte sedimentation rate.