The Therapeutic Wonders of Helichrysum Essential Oil
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The essential oil of Helichrysum is relatively unknown in the United States, though interest in this natural healing phenomenon is growing, and with very good reason. Helichrysum is one of the most potent, dramatically healing essential oils used in medical aromatherapy today. As noted in ‘Medical Aromatherapy: Healing With Essential Oils’, the effects of this oil are “so convincing” as to have “never met with any kind of criticism.” What is this little known oil, where does it come from, and what are its healing actions? Let’s have a look!
There are many, many species of the Helichrysum plant; it is crucial to find oil distilled from a particular variety for therapeutic use. The most healing essential oil is extracted from the small golden flowers of the Helichrysum ‘italicum’ species, with the ‘serotinum’ sub-species being the most highly regarded. Though oils from other Helichrysum species are available, their therapeutic actions are not as dramatic. To make matters more complicated, Helichrysum essential oil is also known as ‘Immortelle’ and ‘Everlasting’ – check the Latin name to be sure of the oil’s source.
Helichrysum has its origins in coastal Mediterranean regions, where the bulk of its farming and distilling continues to take place. The island of Corsica is renowned for exceptional grades of the essential oil, with correspondingly high prices. The oil’s growing demand has sparked interest in essential oil distillers in the US, and outstanding certified organic varieties are now being produced domestically. These oils represent a great bargain, as their laboratory results show very high levels of molecular healing components, with lower prices than their European counterparts.
By now you’re likely asking: “So what does it DO?” Ah, well, a great many things! Helichrysum italicum is a unique essential oil in its distinct synergy of molecular components. It is the only oil known to contain safe but powerful regenerative di-ketones. Its curcumene components have been studied for their anti-inflammatory action; further, the oil contains what are known as ‘spasmolytic esters’ which cause tissues to relax. Relaxing, anti-inflammatory and regenerative – a wonderful combination in a single therapeutic oil.
The oil has a great variety of applications due to this broad range of action: “The pain-reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect is unique” states Dr. Schnaubelt. It is regularly used for skin, muscle and connective tissue injuries and healing with profound results. As noted in ‘Medical Aromatherapy’: “Generally, Helichrysum italicum works for all conditions in which inflamed tissue needs to be calmed down and regenerated.”
Helichrysum oil is wonderful for active sports and fitness enthusiasts of all sorts. Its anti-inflammatory action is so helpful for bumps, bruises, sprains and strains; Its effect is so potent that in many cases, it may prevent bruising and swelling all together if applied in time. Even if applied later, as one would an Arnica preparation, it will still speed healing. Chronic injuries may also be helped with other supportive ingredients. Tendonitis can be treated, for example, with a blend using 1 part per 100 each of Helichrysum italicum, Lemon Eucalyptus and Yarrow essential oils in a base oil of your choosing – a base of comfrey cream may be most beneficial.
Helichrysum is also considered a cicatrisant, which means it reduces scars, both old and new. For acne scars, stretch marks, and even older keloid scars, apply a blend of 25 drops each Helichrysum and Rosemary (Verbenone chemotype) in each ounce of a 10/90 mix of Tamanu Nut and Hazelnut oils. Rosehip seed oil may be effectively be used instead of the rarer Tamanu at a 25/75 ratio with the Hazelnut oil if desired. Apply frequently – the older the scar, the longer it may take to see a change, but results have been said to be surprising even for older scars when used for a duration of six months.
Helichrysum essential oil is indicated for many other conditions, and should be discussed with your healthcare provider to see if it makes sense as an adjunct therapy. The oil may ease symptoms of neuralgia through its regenerative and analgesic properties – apply a 3% dilution of the oil in Hazelnut or Jojoba to tingling or painful areas. It may offer support for other physical conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis in a similar concentration, with added warming oils may be added for improved. Helichrysum acts as an anti-coagulant, and is supportive of the veins. It is considered effective for reducing tinnitus: a drop is placed on a cotton ball and put in the ear each night for two weeks – some recommend simply placing a drop on the pinky and massaging the ear canal. The antispasmodic and decongestive actions help with coughs, colds and asthma. It also can offer great support for stress related exhaustion and headaches.
The spicy-floral aroma of Helichrysum is uplifting and grounding, with an effect on the psyche that may help release ‘stuck’ emotions. According to Gabriel Mojay’s ‘Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit’: “Those (emotions) that are most indicated…are enduring resentment, half-conscious anger, bitterness of spirit, and a stubbornly negative attitude.” Helichrysum makes an excellent addition to many aromatherapy massage blends for this reason; the physical and psychological actions of the oil offer synergistic support to individuals experiencing pain. The touch of caring therapeutic massage using the wonderful properties of Helichrysum is likely to bring profound relief for many people.
So whether you’ve got energetic kids, you’re active sports enthusiast, you’re healing your skin in one of many ways, or have other muscular, nerve, joint or vascular conditions, essential oil of the Helichrysum italicum flower may bring welcome healing action. As a natural health professional, you may employ Helichrysum regularly, as it is a safe essential oil with no contraindications. The oil is precious – the flower only yields a small amount, though a little goes a long way (as with most essential oils). It is only used undiluted in acute cases; otherwise a dilution of 3% or less is often called for. Helichrysum is one of aromatherapy’s stand-out healing oils, coming highly recommended by many natural healers, and deserves a place in nearly everyone’s medicine chest.
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