Helichrysum Essential Oil

Helichrysum italicum

There are over 600 different species of Helichrysum italicum. It’s commonly called Everlasting, Immortelle or the Curry Plant.

Known Uses

Helichrysum Essential Oil (Helichrysum italicum extract) has the powerful ability to lower inflammation, having a corticoid-like effect on the body. It is also a natural antimicrobial agent. Its popular uses include treating sunburn, wounds, hemorrhoids, infections, and digestive problems. It supports the nervous system, heart health, and the healing of respiratory conditions.

By lowering inflammation, swelling and circulation are improved, supporting the healing of nerves, joints and muscle tissue. Therefore, it is an effective natural treatment for the pain associated with arthritis, fibromyalgia and exercise-related injuries.

Helichrysum Essential Oil is well known for its skin soothing and healing properties. It will hydrate burnt skin, thus relieving the pain of sunburn. It decreases the signs of aging and can block UV-light damage. When combined with a carrier oil and rubbed on the skin, it can even enhance the appearance of the skin. It is known to prevent and treat hives, redness, blemishes, rashes and shaving irritation. It will also relieve the itching of poison ivy. It’s a great natural treatment for acne and works without drying the skin.

Its antifungal properties can fight Candida growth, can soothe the digestive tract, and boost immunity. Helichrysum works to stimulate the secretion of gastric juices that are needed to break down food and prevent indigestion. In folk medicine, it has been used as a diuretic, helping to reduce bloating by drawing excess water out of the body. Its antispasmodic properties are useful in relieving stomachaches. It is known to inhibit harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses; it is even powerful enough to help decrease the risk of contracting dangerous diseases.

Researchers have found that Helichrysum Essential Oil improves blood vessels by lowering inflammation, lowering high blood pressure, and increasing smooth muscle function, thus improving heart health. It is also a blood purifier, making it useful in detoxifying the liver of heavy metals, bacteria and other pollutants. It may even reduce the risk of kidney stones by detoxifying the kidneys as well. In addition, it contains compounds that that impede oxidative stress and cancer growth.

History

Helichrysum has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. It is a member of the Asteraceae plant family, native to the Mediterranean region. Today, it continues to play an important role in the traditional medicine of Mediterranean countries, and its popularity is quickly spreading around the world.

Warnings

Helichrysum Essential Oil should not be ingested, but rather mixed with a carrier oil and rubbed into the affected area. Or it can be inhaled: a few drops in a diffuser mixed in water for respiratory or nerve issues. It can be purchased as a dietary supplement.

There are no known significant allergic reactions or side effects to Helichrysum italicum. It’s well tolerated by most people, but mild allergic side effects have occurred in rare cases. To test for any reactions, always mix with a carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying it elsewhere.