[This article contains information on medicinal herbalism, read our Medical Disclaimer here.]
Botanical name: Helichrysum spp.
Common names include, everlasting/immortelle, the curry plant (the leaves have a strong, curry-like smell, although helichrysum is not used in any curry dish), and Italian strawflower.
Family: Asteraceae, the daisy family.
Origin: Grows wild and is cultivated in France, Italy, the Mediterranean area.
Botany: Helichrysum is a strongly aromatic shrub, with brightly colored flowers. The flowers retain their shape and color when dried, and gave the herb it's name: everlasting. There are over 500 species of Helichrysum, but many do not produce an essential oil. Those that do are:
• H. italium or H. angustifolium
• H. stoechas
• H. gymnocephalum
• H. patulum
Parts used: flowering tops
Application:
Topical-massage, compress, bath, ointment, skincare.
Inhalation- diffuser, aromatherapy
Internal- tincture, the essential oil may be safe to use in very small doses, only while under physician supervision.
Energetics: Comparable to Roman chamomile and yarrow. All three oils regulate the flow of Qi and clear heat. Therefore beneficial for conditions of the liver and encourage the flow of bile.
Essential oils: The oil is steam distilled from the flowering tops. Has a pale yellow color, and a unique sweet/fruity/tea aroma.
Aromatherapy and Spiritual power:
Helichrysum offers strength and endurance to those that are wounded.
Restores confidence in life and in the Self.
Recommended for those with depression.
Ideal for those who feel cold, or had too little warmth or affection as a child.
beneficial for those who have cold feet, or have lost contact with the earth.
Increases dream activity and awareness to stimulate the right side of the brain.
Helichrysum has a powerful relationship with the the light of the sun. It imbues joy, server and hope for living.
Helichrysum offers hope that out wounds will heal, ad taken he wounded by the hand and leads them toward divinity. the oil can teach to one to have gratitude for their trials.
Therapeutic Actions
Anti-allergenic: reduces the symptoms of of allergies
Anti-inflammatory: relieves inflammation
Anti-microbial: destroys and inhibits the growth of micro-organisms
Anti-spasmodic: prevents and eases spasms and relieves cramps
Anti-tussive: prevents or relieves a cough
Cholagogue: increases the secretion and flow of bile into the small intestines
Cicatrisant: promotes the formation of scar tissue
Diuretic: increases the production and excretion of urine
Expectorant: loosens and expels mucus from the airways
Hepatic: stimulates and aids liver function
Mucolytic: clears mucus from the upper and lower airways
Choleretic: aids in the secretion of bile from the liver
Uses
Detoxify the blood, stimulate the liver, kidneys, gall bladder, spleen and pancreas-organs. Used for bronchitis, asthma, whooping cough, psoriasis, burns, rheumatism headache, migraines, allergies, and liver ailments.
Circulatory System
Due to compounds called beta-diones, helichrysum has anticoagulant properties, making it applicable in the treatment of any severe bruising.
Detoxification
Purify the blood, stimulant to the liver, gall bladder, kidney, spleen, and pancreas. Useful in lymphatic drainage. For a liver stimulant, everlasting can be taken orally in small doses- take 1 drop twice daily. decoctions and infusion to be taken orally.
Integumentary System
Due to it’s into-inflammatory properties it is recommended for the treatment of eczema and allergies. Helichrysum oil can be added to an open wound before it is bandaged. It will not cause any irritation, will reduce swelling, inflammation, and increase the speed of the healing process.
Musculoskeletal System
analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Respiratory System
Due to mucolytic, antispasmodic and expectorant properties which are beneficial for the treatment of sinus infections, bronchitis, and coughs.
Skin Care
Used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory properties. Recommended where there is inflamed tissue that needs to be soothed and regenerated.
Clinical studies:
Helichrysum has been reported to exhibit antimicrobial properties in vitro against Staphyloccus aureus, Escherichia coli, a Mycobacterium species and Candida albicans.
Here’s where i source my helichrysum
Safety: non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing.
No known drug interactions.
Sincerely,
Emilee Wright
A Mercurial Consciousness