What We Need to Know About Helichrysum italicum

The genus name Helichrysum derives from the Greek words Helios (Sun) and Chrysos (Gold), which reflect the intense yellow color of the helichrysum flower. The French term “Immortelle” and the English “Everlasting flower” emphasize the fact that dried bouquets of helichrysum flowers retain their yellow color for a long time, symbolizing immortality and eternity. In Chinese culture, helichrysum symbolizes a long and successful life.

Medicinal Properties of Helichrysum

Helichrysum is an exceptionally medicinal plant whose healing properties were once forgotten and then rediscovered. Homer mentions its medicinal qualities in his Odyssey, and later Greek physicians used helichrysum oil to treat burns, stings, bites, and urinary infections. During the Spanish flu epidemic, helichrysum oil was used on Corsica as a powerful bactericide and air freshener.

The first scientific study on the medicinal properties of helichrysum oil was conducted in the mid-20th century, focusing on psoriasis patients. In traditional medicine, the flower and leaf of helichrysum are used to create various medicinal preparations for treatment.

Uses of Helichrysum

• Skin Treatments (wounds, scars, stretch marks, burns) - balms, creams
• Bile Duct and Liver Diseases - teas, tinctures
• Digestive Disorders (stomach, intestines) - teas, tinctures
• Hematomas - balms, creams
• Venous Issues, Hemorrhoids, Broken Capillaries - balms, creams
• Elevated Blood Lipids - teas, tinctures
• Anxiety and Insomnia - teas
• Allergies, Bronchitis, Asthma - teas

Thanks to the knowledge of helichrysum’s medicinal properties passed down through generations and later documented, the pharmacological properties of helichrysum oil have become the subject of scientific research.

Key Properties of Helichrysum Oil

• Antibacterial, Antiseptic
• Choleretic
• Spasmolytic
• Antioxidant