Helichrysum Essential Oil
The Properties and Use of Helichrysum Oil in Aromatherapy
Helichrysum (Helichrysum angustifolium italicum) is also known by the French synonym Immortelle, meaning everlasting; the flowers of helichrysum are frequently used by florists for their vividly colored flowers which resemble daisies. Helichrysum is also a very fragrant plant; it is used in Europe for a number of medicinal problems.
Traditional Use of Helichrysum
Helichrysum has been used in Europe to treat conditions such as asthma, whooping cough and chronic bronchitis; it has also been used to treat a number of skin conditions including psoriasis and burns. Other traditional uses of helichrysum include treatment for liver problems, headaches and migraines; helichrysum is native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa.
Origin and Extraction of Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum is now cultivated mainly in Italy, France and Spain; the essential oil of helichrysum is obtained by steam distillation of the fresh flowers. Helichrysum essential oil has a honey-like, sweet fragrance with green undertones; it is usually colored pale yellow, with some red tints. It is also possible to obtain an absolute from helichrysum by solvent extraction.
Characteristics of the Herb Helichrysum
Helichrysum is a herb which is very fragrant; it grows up to 24 inches in height. Helichrysum is known for its brightly colored, 'daisy' flowers; the flowers of helichrysum are popular with flower arrangers, in addition to being used for essential oil extraction. However, although there are many species of helichrysum which are used by florists, only one, Helichrysum angustifolium italicum, is recommended for aromatherapy purposes.
Use of Helichrysum in Aromatherapy
Helichrysum essential oil is anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent and anti-allergic; it is also used to treat depression and stress, as it is believed to be helpful with emotional issues. Helichrysum essential oil is used to treat asthma, dermatitis, eczema, arthritis, rheumatism, muscular aches and pains and any other inflammatory condition.
Helichrysum Use in Stress
Helichrysum essential oil is a very effective oil in the treatment and prevention of stress, as it is has very calming properties; the essential oil of Helichrysum is primarily made up of the chemical components of alcohols and esters, both very calming and relaxing elements. Mentally, helichrysum essential oil can help people who are emotionally exhausted and debilitated; it is for this reason that many believe helichrysum to be of 'sacred' and spiritual value.
Cautions for Using Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum essential oil is considered to be a non-toxic, non-sensitizing, non-irritant and safe oil to use; there are no known contra-indications for use. It is even considered to be suitable for use with babies and children due to its gentle properties. However, as is the case when using any essential oil or if unfamiliar with the use of essential oils, professional advice should be taken before using.
Use of Helichrysum Oil
Although helichrysum essential oil has a number of uses and is considered to be a 'safe' oil, it is an expensive oil and therefore not as commonly used as some of the other essential oils; however, it is very effective when combined with other essential oils, such as lavender, geranium and the citrus essential oils. Therefore, helichrysum is the ideal essential oil for use in a synergistic blend, when used to treat the conditions specified.
References:
Davis, Patricia 2005 Aromatherapy An A-Z UK: Vermilion
Lawless, Julia 1995 The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils UK:Element
Helichrysum Essential Oil
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