Helichrysum Essential Oil
Botanical Name: Helichrysum italicum
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Flowers
Note Classification: Base
Aroma: Sweet, earthy, green floral
Largest Producing Countries: France, Italy, and Spain
Traditional Use: Used as a fixative in soaps, cosmetics, and perfumes. The flowers have been used to treat skin conditions, and liver ailments.
Properties: Antiallergenic, antibacterial, anticoagulant (potential), anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antispasmodic, astringent, cholagogue, cicatrizant, diuretic, expectorant, hepatic, nervine, stimulant.
Benefits: Acne, allergic conditions, asthma, bronchitis, bruising, burns, circulatory disorders, colds, cough, dermatitis, eczema, fever, lethargy, liver congestion, muscular aches and pains, nervous exhaustion, rheumatism, scarring, spleen congestion, sprains, stretch marks, sunburn, wounds. Helichrysum’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions make this oil a wonderful addition to burn or bruise blends.
Blends Well With: Bergamot, black pepper, chamomile, citrus oils, clary sage, clove, cypress, geranium, juniper, lavender, mimosa, neroli, oakmoss, oregano, palmarosa, rose, rosemary, tea tree, thyme, vetiver, ylang ylang.
Of Interest: There are about 500 species of helichrysum, of which only a few produce essential oil for distillation. The word helichrysum is named after the golden yellow flowers of the plant, and comes from the Greek words helios meaning sun and chrysos meaning gold. The common name, immortelle, also comes from the flowers, because they are long lasting blossoms that do not wither easily.
Safety Data: Non-toxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing.