Commonly called Immortelle, Immortal or Everlasting, Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum (H. angustifolium) oil is steam-distilled from the yellow flower tops of the plant. These flower tops are extracted by hand and takes about a ton to produce around 900 grams or a little over 31 ounces of essential oil, making it a pricy oil.
Like all essential oils, Helichrysum has many therapeutic properties. Research is key, however, as many documented uses are often the flowers or infused herbs and not essential oil use that is documented.
Although there is no traditional or esoteric uses or actions documented uses of the essential oil Helichrysum, we know many therapeutic actions are offered through the essential oil based on the individual constituents (components) within the oil. Its chemical makeup is remarkable with some unusual components not found in other oils.
And, there is a great deal of research and documentation noted on the flower itself. Immortelle has been used for many decades as herbal teas and the making of infusions.
Some properties of the oil may only occur if the oil is taken internally. However, there are many factors to take into consideration including proper diagnosis, client’s age, health, if pregnant, allergies, asthma, proper dosing, duration of time to treat diagnosis, and more.
If you are considering internal use, I recommend consulting a Clinical Aromatherapist trained in internal use. Those qualified have been trained in Pharmacodynamics and Pharmacokinetics of essential oils and know proper delivery method, dosage and duration of time. Those that are untrained may mistake symptoms as “diagnosis”, and thus create further issues rather than resolving the actual diagnosis.
The other concern with untrained internal use is the disturbance of or internal functions. To further explain; we all have about 4 pounds of good bacteria lining our digestive tracts. We need this digestive bacterium since it balances the gut and an unbalanced gut can cause a rash of health problems.
In recent years, studies have documented the antibacterial activity of essential oils against infectious bacterial strains. However, they do not distinguish the good from iniquitous bacteria in our gut. We need good bacteria to live healthy and well-balanced lives. Since the antibacterial constituents in essential oils don’t care whether they kill good or bad bacteria, they can wreak havoc on your insides.
Unbalanced gut bacteria can result in digestion nightmares including flatulence, bloating, heartburn, acid reflux, diarrhea, or IBS; mental problems like anxiety, depression, and brain fog; and skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, and acne.
When comparing bioavailability between oral and inhalation application, oral use has a 95% bioavailability and inhalation has a 70-75% bioavailability. The risks associated with oral use far outweigh the 20% difference in bioavailability. Another option is diffusion and the advantage to diffusion is you can walk away from it to get fresh air if you feel like you are having a reaction to it. With internal reaction, there is no telling how severe it may be and there is no walking away to get fresh air.
Another useful method of application is inhalers However, this one you cannot walk away from so choose your oils wisely. Helichrysum, in the right dose, is great for inhaler use.
Topically, you can use Helichrysum in creams, lotions, carrier (lipid) oils, shampoos, bath products and more. They can also be applied using a roll-on.
In essential oil chemistry, Helichrysum is considered a Sesquiterpene, one of the gentlest chemical families of essential oils. Most Helichrysum is from Corsica, USA, Bosnia, and Croatia.
Aromatically, it’s considered a middle note meaning it’s the “in between” in evaporation rate.
It’s a lovely herb and oil for emotionally balancing, and especially helpful for those that are or have suffered trauma, offering comforting emotional healing.
I use Helicrhsyum in my meditating and relaxing since it helps our minds to think and process creative thoughts, meditation and dreaming. According to author and aromatherapist Patricia Davis, Helichrysum Italicum is like “honey for the psyche.” Lets look at some of the uses for this remarkable little flower.
1. Lower high blood pressure
Helichrysum has been found to help regulate blood pressure by increasing the arterial and venous blood circulation and at the same time, help clear out the lymphatic system. Using Helichrysum in an herbal tea or infusion is best. You can also try the following blend in an inhaler to assist in bringing your blood pressure down. You can also use this in a diffuser.
Elevated Pressure
- One Inhaler (or diffuse)
- 5 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 5 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia
- 5 drops Ylang Ylang Cananga odorata var. genuina
2. Heal External Bruising
There is no better essential oil for healing bruising. Helichrysum can be used at a maximum from 0.5% (infants) to 5%(15+ years old), 2% for those that are pregnant (1)
Keep in mind that maximum means the most you should use. Start low and work up to your threshold as you may not need the maximum amount. The following blend is great for deep bruise healing.
Bruising
- 4 Teaspoons carrier oil (Tamanu or Calendula is best)
- 4 drops Frankincense Boswellia carterii
- 1 drop Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum Corsica
- 2 drops Myrrh Commiphora myrrha
- 4 drops Manuka Leptospermum scoparium ct east cape
3. Clear Acne and Acne Scars
Immortelle (Helichrysum) is well known for its gentleness and healing abilities on the skin. With its anti-bacterial and astringent like properties, its perfect for clearing acne. Helichrysum can be used at 5% strength for spot treatment which is 45 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
For acne, I strongly recommend using Calendula Calendula officinalis oil. It contains salicylic acid, 0.02% carotenoids and phytosterols, all skin healing properties. It is also a great antiseptic, anti-microbial and skin regenerator as well as reducing any swelling and healing wounds including acne.
4. Detoxify the liver
One of the two biggest detox organs of our body is the liver and Helichrysums’ herbal hepatoprotective properties improve liver health by reducing inflammation, protecting it from infection and encouraging the release of bile and toxins. The best way to accomplish this is through herbal teas or infusions for detoxing. Teas are quite easy to make. Either hot or cold infusions can be made. Infusions can take weeks to infuse but the results are potent and quite effective.
By helping to detox the liver, it also helps the function of the gallbladder. Helichrysum Tea will help, however, essential oils do not detoxify. ” In true detoxification, something is removed, diminished, or eradicated. To really drive a detoxification response, an essential oil would have to directly engage with the body’s elimination systems.” (2)
Related post: How to Choose an Ox Bile Supplement
5. Improve gallbladder function
In addition to Helichrysum assisting the liver, these same actions apply to the gallbladder.
Important Note: Whatever you choose for an oil, make sure that the oils you purchase are high quality. Remember, you’re breathing this oil into your lungs so essential oil quality is a terrible place to cut corners.
6. Prevent kidney stones
Helichrysum extract is created from of the flowers and referred study shows that the extracts could reduce the formation and growth of kidney stones in Ox-induced urolithiasis and can be beneficial for patients with recurrent stones. In addition, this was the first study on the preventive effect of Helichrysum (immortal) flowers. (3)
7. Reduce inflammation
Helichrysum is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This is due to the chemical family within the oil called ketones. The component in ketones called Arzanol was identified as the major contributor as an anti-inflammatory property. Try blending up to 5%, starting at 2% and work up to find your threshold. Remember that 1% equals 9 drops per ounce of carrier.
8. Relieve swelling
Helichrysum helps reduce swelling in muscles and joints throughout the body. For short periods of time, you can increase your dilution rate to 25%. This is for short term use, no more than two weeks. Use the following blend to reduce swelling in joints or muscles in the body. Remember to start at a low dilution and work up to it, depending on the seriousness of your injury. The following is a 2% blend, increase as needed.
Swelling
- One-ounce unscented lotion or carrier oil
- 4 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 4 drops Myrrh Commiphora myrrha
- 4 drops Patchouli Pogostemom cablin
- 6 drops Ylang Ylang Cananga odorata var. genuina
9. Treat arthritis
Massaging Helichrysum EO blend into arthritic joints may help to reduce pain and inflammation. The oil will also increase blood circulation in the joint and surrounding tissue, which will help reduce swelling. Try the following blend.
Cream for Arthritic Pain
- One-ounce unscented lotion (or Tamanu Oil)
- 5 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 5 drops Myrrh Commiphora myrrha
- 5 drops Patchouli Pogostemom cablin
- 2 drops Ylang Ylang Cananga odorata var. genuina
10. Treat Symptoms of Fibromyalgia
As one who lives with Fibromyalgia, it’s a fine balance of diet, exercise and finding the supplements that support my needs. Certain herbs, oils and other aromatic substances can help Fibromyalgia with many symptoms. Helichrysum is known to help clear fogginess, ease muscular aches and pains and uplift our emotional status. Through the infusions and teas, Helichrysum can be supportive to the blood pressure by cleansing and thinning the blood.
11. Alleviate sore muscles
Massage sore, achy muscles with the 5% Helichrysum/carrier oil blend. You will feel relief in no time. You can repeat your application as often as needed. Below is another alternative with additional pain-relieving oils to use along with your Helichrysum.
- Two-ounces Tamanu Oil
- 14 drops Helichrysum Odoratissimum m
- 6 drops Patchouli Pogostemom cablin
- 9 drops Frankincense Boswellia sacra
- 10 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia
- 1 drop Beta-Caryophellane
12. Stop muscle spasms and cramps
Massage the previous blend of Helichrysum/carrier oil into your muscles at first signs of spasms or cramps for relief within minutes. Repeat as often as needed.
13. Speed healing of ligaments and tendons
Use Helichrysum to shorten healing time after a ligament or tendon injury. It is very effective for healing any ligament or tendon injury, including the meniscus on either side of the knee. Gently massage the oil into the area several times a day. A 10% to 25% dilution rate can be used for up to two weeks.
- One-ounce carrier oil (Tamanu is best)
- 4 drops Frankincense Boswellia carterii
- 5 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum Corsica
- 2 drops Myrrh Commiphora myrrha
- 6 drops Manuka Leptospermum scoparium ct east cape
14. Treat upper respiratory infections
Helichrysums’ antitussive type properties help clear excess mucous from the lungs while its antibacterial properties kill bacteria. Traditional uses have been through its’ floral infusions and teas. You can also make a blend with Helichrysum in it to help open your airways and help clear your congestion and respiratory issues. Try the following blend in a rub, inhaler or diffuser.
Respiratory Ease
- 5 Drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 10 Drops Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana
- 15 Drops Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia
- 10 Drops Lemon Citrus limon
15. Alleviate allergic reactions
Helichrysum’s anti-allergenic properties will ease those allergies. Used alone or in an inhaler, it’ll help ease symptoms almost immediately. Inhale Helichrysum vapors directly from the bottle to reduce allergic reactions. Also try the following to combat allergies.
- One Inhaler
- 5 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 5 drops Eucalyptus Eucalyptus globulus or Ravintsara Cinnamomun camphora ct. 1,8 cineole
- 2 drops Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia
- 3 drops Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana
16. Reduce coughing
Using Helichrysum can help reduce coughs caused by congestion. Massage your throat with the previous blend called “Respiratory Ease”. The previous inhaler is great for alleviating coughs as well.
17. Prevent or treat bacterial infections
Once wounds have scabbed over, applying Helichrysum can help to prevent or treat bacterial infections. The following is so effective in healing wounds. You may find some wounds more serious. In this case and for temporary application, you can apply up to 50% blend, keeping in mind that 9 drops to 1 ounce of carrier is a 1% blend. This will help guide you. (4)
Wound Healer 3% blend
- 2 ounces Tamanu Oil
- 14 drops Helichrysum Odoratissimum m
- 6 drops Patchouli Pogostemom cablin
- 9 drops Frankincense Boswellia sacra
- 10 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia
18. Alleviate sinus conditions
The same antitussive properties that help clear mucous from the lungs alleviate excess mucous in the sinuses. Helichrysum EO can also be used to treat sinus infections.
19. Prevent viral infections
Extractions made with Helichrysum were noted as healing for the anti-herpes virus-1. It has actually been proven to kill the virus. (5)
20. Treat or prevent fungal infections
Treat fungal infections like athlete’s foot by applying a 5% to 50% Helichrysum/carrier oil blend. Marula or Tamanu oil are both anti-fungal carrier oils and good choices for this purpose.
21. Improve your immune system
Helichrysum can be supportive to the immune system because of its powerful anti-bacterial, anti-viral properties and other properties. When you feel a cold or other symptom coming on, using Helichrysum in an inhaler to support your immune system is perfect.
Try the following in an inhaler, easily obtained from Amazon or other retailers. This same effective and supportive blend can be diffused or used with a carrier oil as a topical application by using with 1/2 ounce of carrier oil or unscented lotion. This will make it a 3% which you can adjust to your needs, within safety limits.
- 5 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 5 drops Lemon Citrus limon
- 5 drops Manuka Leptospermum scoparium ct. east cape
22. Prevent or treat bacterial infections
Apply Helichrysum blended with coconut oil to sores and wounds to prevent or treat bacterial infections. Use the 25% dilution rate for this application.
23. Improve digestive tract health
When it comes to digestive health, Helichrysum elixirs, teas and herbal infusions work great. Helichrysum can support detoxing and ease digestive congestion.
24. Alleviate anxiety
When it comes to anxiety, panic or other emotional disorders, inhalation is the best route of application. When we inhale, we are inhaling the molecules of the oils in through our olfactory system. This in turn leads to our limbic system which controls our emotions from anxiety, depression, panic, and various moods which makes this the perfect application.
You can diffuse or make a topical to also enjoy the beautiful aroma with the same blend but it’s always nice to know how to get quick results as well. Try the following blend with its soft, relaxing aroma.
Anxiety
- 5 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 2 drops BergamotCitrus bergamia
- 3drops Clary SageSalvia sclarea
- 2 drop FrankincenseBoswellia carterii
- 3 drops SandalwoodSantalum album (optional but lovely)
25. Treat insomnia
Insomnia can lead to a host of health problems, not to mention zapping your energy that even coffee can’t get going in the morning. But addressing the symptoms alone may not resolve the diagnosis or cause of ability to sleep. Speaking with your doctor to address any hormonal issues may help if you suspect this may be a case. Stress is another major factor when it comes to ability to rest soundly. Whatever the reason, Helichrysum is a good choice in supporting a good nights’ rest. Helichrysum can help address depression, nervous exhaustion, headaches that may keep us awake, relieve stress due to over worries, phobias and help ease shock. (5)
Try the following in a topical sleep blend. Find the strength you need to address your personal sleep needs. Diffusing all night is not recommended due to concerns of unknown possible neurological reactions to repeated long exposures. 30 to 60-minute increments are recommended with breaks in between.
Sleep Time
- 5 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 5 drops Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana
- 5 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia
- 4 drops Vetiver Vetiveria Chrysopogon zizanioides
26. Improve mental acuity
Helichrysum improves your meridian flow, assisting with shock, exhaustion, neuralgia, and other mental symptoms. Practice Helichrysum italicum aromatherapy to improve mental acuity by diffusing, sniffing straight from the bottle or dilute and massage a few drops of the 2% to 5% blend into the back of the neck, throat and chest. This can be helpful for people who are suffering from a concussion or brain injury, Alzheimer’s or other mental disabilities.
27. Boost energy levels
Helichrysum helps to regulate your blood pressures, the teas help thin your blood and increases your arterial and venous flow, increasing your energy span. Try to the following in an Inhaler to get you going before your work out.
- One Inhaler
- 3 drops Helichrysum Helichrysumitalicum
- 3 drops Bergamot Citrus bergamia
- 5 drops Spruce Picea mariana
- 2 drops Ginger Zingiber officinale
28. Improve blood clotting
Very few oils are recommended for topical wound healing and Helichrysum is one. It’s perfect for stopping the bleeding and healing an open wound. Apply Helichrysum italicum essential oil to wounds to stop the bleeding more quickly. Use up to 50% for this use. Ounce the bleeding has stopped, dilute the strength of your blend down to 5- Helichrysum italicum’s cytophylactic properties enhance the body’s ability to protect and heal cells and replace them more quickly with new, healthy cells, resulting in faster wound healing.
29. Improving Skin Texture
Everyone wants smooth, wrinkle free skin. With the upcoming summer heat, a little extra help is nice and Helichrysum offers beautiful skin protection. Moisturize your facial skin by adding Helichrysum to your favorite moisturizer. Or you can make your own facial care system. Because of its regenerating properties by stimulating cells, its aid in healing those tiny broken veins and easing inflammation, you’ll love the results on your skin.
Facial Care
- One-ounce Unscented lotion or carrier oil
- 6 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
- 5 drops Bergamot Citrus bergamia (FCF)
- 3 drops Neroli Citrus x aurantium
- 4 drops Frankincense Boswellia carterii
30. Treat Eczema and Psoriasis Symptoms
Addressing the causes of these conditions must be first considered. Helichrysum or any oil or product can only work along with addressing the cause of your condition. Many times diet or emotional issues are behind the symptoms. You can try a topical cream to address the symptoms. The previous blend will work nicely, applying it at a 2% to 5% blend. Consistency will bring best results. Applying after showers and before bed will allow for better absorption and perhaps better results.
31. Alleviate varicose veins
We previously mentioned that Helichrysum is known to help reduce the site of veins. This happens by healing small broken veins. This is done by its ability to regnereate cell growth. Use a 3% to 6% Helichrysum italicum/carrier oil blend to get rid of varicose veins.
32. Treat Candida overgrowth in the gut
Practice Helichrysum aromatherapy and massage the 5% Helichrysum/carrier oil blend into your abdominal area to fight Candida albicans or yeast overgrowth in the gut. Coconut oil is a good carrier oil for this as it also has Candida-fighting therapeutic properties.
33. Alleviate anxiety
Add 5 to 10 drops of Everlasting essential oil to 1/2 cup of distilled water in your diffuser and run it for 30 to 60 minutes to alleviate anxiety. If you tend to suffer anxiety when it is not convenient to use your diffuser, simply keep the bottle of Helichrysum oil with you and take a few deep inhales through your nose when you begin to feel anxious.
34. Treat insomnia
Massage the 2% to 5% Helichrysum italicum EO blend into the soles of your feet before going to bed to get a good night’s sleep. You can also enjoy 30 to 60 minutes of relaxing aromatherapy before bed to improve your sleep.
Alzheimer’s-Reversing Oil that is Beating Prescription Drugs
35. Improve mental acuity
Practice Helichrysum italicum aromatherapy to improve mental acuity or massage a few drops of the 2% to 5% blend into the back of the neck, throat and chest. You can also take a few deep breaths for a quick and dirty pick-me-up before an important meeting or when you need to be especially sharp. This can be helpful for people who are suffering from a concussion or brain injury and Alzheimer’s.
36. Relieve symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
Massage 2 drops of Helichrysum EO/coconut oil blend into your temples, throat and neck twice a day for relief from Multiple Sclerosis symptoms. Use it for three weeks at a time, then stop using it for one week.
37. Boost energy levels
Use Immortelle aromatherapy to put a bit of pep in your step. You can also massage the 5% blend into the soles of your feet.
38. Improve blood clotting
Apply Helichrysum italicum essential oil to wounds to stop the bleeding more quickly.
*People taking anti-coagulants should not use Helichrysum without first consulting with their physician. Don’t use it if you are about to have surgery*
39. Speed bruise healing
Gently apply the 5% Helichrysum italicum EO/carrier oil blend to the skin wherever you have a bruise to speed healing.
40. Treat sunburn
Apply a 5% Everlasting/coconut oil blend to sunburn for fast relief and a more speedy recovery.
41. Speed wound healing
Helichrysum italicum’s cytophylactic properties enhance the body’s ability to slough off dead cells and replace them more quickly with new, healthy cells, resulting in faster wound healing.
42. Improve hearing loss
Use a 2% to 5% Helichrysum/carrier oil blend to improve hearing loss caused by chronic infection, inflammation or nerve damage. Massage the blend into the area directly behind the ear, down the jaw line and into the outer part of the ear. Do not put the oil into the ear canal. Use it once or twice a day.
43. Get rid of acne
Dab straight Helichrysum italicum EO directly on pimples with a cotton swab once or twice a day to clear up acne.
44. Get rid of wrinkles
Moisturize your facial skin and throat with a 2% Immortelle/carrier oil blend to get rid of wrinkles. Helichrysum italicum is also included in anti-aging blends that are great for getting rid of wrinkles.
45. Treat eczema and psoriasis
Apply a 2% to 5% Helichrysum italicum EO/carrier oil blend into areas of the skin that are effected by eczema and psoriasis.
46. Alleviate varicose veins
Use a 3% to 6% Helichrysum italicum/carrier oil blend to get rid of varicose veins. Rub the oil into the area with varicose veins, massaging in the direction of the heart. You can also use a combination of Everlasting EO and Cypress EO along with a witch hazel compress (buy it here).
47. Moisturize dry skin
Moisturize dry skin with a 2% Helichrysum/carrier oil blend. Jojoba is a great carrier oil for this purpose. It helps regulate your skin’s natural sebum production, which drops off as we age.
48. Relieve skin irritations
Use a 2% to 5% Helichrysum blend to get relief from any skin irritation, dermatitis or allergic rash like poison ivy. For added relief from burning and itching, mix 2 drops of Helichrysum italicum and 2 drops of Lavender essential oil (buy it here) into 1 teaspoon of coconut oil.
49. Reduce the appearance of scars
Massage a 2% to 5% Helichrysum blend into scars to reduce their appearance.
Was this list helpful to you? I was impressed by all of the incredible uses for Helichrysum essential oil. I’m sure further clinical research will continue to prove all of the therapeutic benefits of this oil. Helichrysum is more expensive than many other essential oils, due the naturally low yield from the flowers, but it is well worth it.
Please leave a comment to let me know if this list helped and share your own experiences with Everlasting essential oil, if you have already used it. We can all learn from each other’s experience with this oil and keep adding to the on-going list of its great uses. Be sure to share, too, so that others can become aware of all of the incredible uses for Helichrysum essential oil.
References:
1. https://tisserandinstitute.org/essential-oil-safety-master-class-interest/
2. http://tisserandinstitute.org/essential-oils-and-the-detox-theory/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27085940
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24239849
5. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual, Vol. I. The Aromatherapy Chart A-L; Helichrysum, pg. 233