Helichrysum Essential Oil
Helichrysum Essential Oil Nature’s Healing Wonder
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.
The precious essential oil of Helichrysum is relatively unknown in the United States, even in natural health and wellness circles. Interest and experience with this natural healing phenomenon is growing rapidly, however – and with very good reason. Helichrysum is one of the most potent, dramatically healing essential oils used in European medical aromatherapy today. As noted by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, America’s leading medical aromatherapist, the effects of this oil are "so convincing that it has never met with any kind of criticism." An essential oil so useful, even those who consider aromatherapy a pseudo-science do not challenge its wonderful effects! So what is Helichrysum oil, and how can it benefit the newcomer to aromatherapy?
There are over five hundred species of the Helichrysum plant; many share the same characteristics of narrow pale green leaves and bright yellow flowers. It is only the Helichrysum ‘italicum’ species that produces the highly regarded ‘Everlasting’ or ‘Immortelle’ oil for aromatherapy. There is even a sub-species of this called ’serotinum’ which is a little more rare – if seeking out the oil, check the Latin name, and be sure it is 100% pure (unless, of course, you’re seeking a particular therapeutic recipe or dilution – even then, the aromatherapy literature states that purity of the original source material is of utmost importance to ensure efficacy).
The Helichrysum flower is native to the Mediterranean, where much of the finest oil is distilled. Because of the growing popularity of the oil, outstanding varieties are now being produced in the United States, with laboratory test results showing exceptionally high concentrations of the principal active constituents – as high or higher than even the fine European varieties. These domestically produced oils are a great bargain compared to the imported oils, with their high therapeutic efficacy and lower costs. Whichever source you choose, be sure it is pure Helichrysum italicum essential oil you use for therapeutic purposes.
So what’s so wonderful about this essential oil from the little golden French flower? Its natural combination of chemical constituents creates one of the most profoundly healing essential oils available. It has the actions of being a strong anti-inflammatory, an analgesic, a tension reliever, and a potent tissue regenerator. It is the only essential oil known to contain a certain class of molecule called di-ketones, well known for their unique regenerative effects. The oil is considered a panacea by some in cases of wounds of all kinds, where it is called for immediately – applied undiluted to the affected area until further medical care is available. This same synergy of action can be effective for a broad array of physical conditions.
As Dr. Schnaubelt notes in Medical Aromatherapy: "The pain-reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect is unique…(the oil) works for all conditions in which inflamed tissue needs to be calmed down and regenerated." Its most common use is for healing skin, muscle and connective tissue. Helichrysum may be applied directly to cuts and scrapes, perhaps with a small amount of Tea Tree oil for additional antibacterial action. It has been recommended for surgical wounds, applied beginning seven days after a procedure. Continued application may significantly reduce scar formation, and can even treat old scars of various origins (we’ll get to the recipes for this shortly!)
It is an excellent remedy to have available when sports and fitness enthusiasts young and old are at play. Helichrysum is used ‘neat’ (undiluted) on injuries such as bruises and twists that have just occurred to prevent further damage from swelling and hematoma. If applied immediately, a bruise may not even appear; if application is delayed, the oil will still speed healing. Tendonitis may be addressed with a blend of 1% Helichrysum, 1% Lemon Eucalyptus and 1% Yarrow oils in a base of Comfrey cream applied regularly to the area.
Helichrysum is included in many therapeutic blends for the skin. It is considered anti-inflammatory, tissue regenerating and a cicatrisant (scar reducing). To treat scars, old and new, use 25 drops Helichrysum, 25 drops Rosemary Verbenone and 75 drops Calophyllum (Tamanu) in each ounce of Hazelnut oil. Apply regularly to the scar; this formula is even used for smoothing of old keloid scars over a period of six months. For additional support, add 75 drops of Rosehip seed oil to the blend. Helichrysum is used in blends to reduce stretch marks after pregnancy: Use a 3% dilution of Helichrysum oil in Hazelnut with 20% Rosehip seed as the base and apply regularly. During pregnancy, a low dilution blend (1% total essential oils) of Neroli and Cypress in Hazelnut oil is recommended to prevent the marks from occurring. Hemorrhoids may be relieved with 1% Helichrysum and 1% German Chamomile in Sesame oil. Allergic skin reactions and eczema may be calmed with 1% each Helichrysum and Blue Tansy essential oils in Hazelnut oil.
Briefly, Helichrysum italicum is also used for neuralgia – with its regenerative and analgesic actions: Use the oil diluted as a massage formula for painful or tingling areas. . It may offer support for other physical conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis in a similar blend, with other warming oils added for improved circulation (small amounts of Black Pepper and Ginger essential oils are often used). The oil may help tinnitus symptoms: place one drop on a cotton ball in the ear each night for one to two weeks. Helichrysum acts as an anti-coagulant, and is supportive of the veins and in cases where vein degeneration has lead to clot formation. It can offer support in cases of coughs, colds and asthma; It is further used for headaches, nervous tension, and exhaustion from stress. Consult a knowledgeable practitioner for advice on Helichrysum’s use as part of your health and wellness program.
On the more esoteric side, where aromatherapy also affects the psyche and emotions, according to 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." For many, there can be a direct link between these hardened emotions and physical manifestation of illness. Aromatherapy massage with Helichrysum may be extremely beneficial, as one receives the oil’s aroma, its biological effects, and the healing touch of massage. Here, the oil may be used in a 1-3% dilution, alone or with other oils tailored to the person’s needs.
As you can see, Helichrysum offers its potent healing medicine to many folks interested in natural healing, wellness and fitness. It is an exceptionally safe oil, and can be used by health professionals without hesitation. True Helichrysum italicum may appear expensive relative to other oils, but it is often used in small amounts and low dilutions; a little will go a long way – and will be a much appreciated addition to your natural home medicine chest.
Tarah Cech
Published: 2/9/2008
