The name Helichrysum is derived from the Greek “helios” meaning sun and “chrysos” meaning gold, referring to the color of many of the flowers of species in this genus. The reason that Helichrsyum essential oil is expensive is because one ton of hand-harvested helichrysum flowering tops yields about one kilogram of essential oil.
There are over 600 species in the Helichrysum genus occurring in temperate regions throughout the world. The genus includes annuals, herbaceous perennials and shrubs. Helichrysum species thrive in sunshine, and enjoy growing in arid, sandy, stony areas and along mountainsides.
Helichrysum is the only essential oil found to contain certain di-ketones, which may support wound healing and scar reduction. It is suitable for wound healing and for scars, resulting either from accidents, surgery or acne.
The triple unsaturated fatty acids may strengthen the cell membranes and, combined with the regenerative qualities of Everlasting, can heal wounds with little or no scarring.
There are many species of Helichrysum, though it is only the 'italicum' species that is true 'Immortelle' or 'Everlasting' with the regenerative actions attributed to this wonderful oil
The unique natural molecular components of these Helichrysum italicum oils include anti-inflammatory alpha, beta and gamma-curcumenes (think 'curcumin', the anti-inflammatory extract from turmeric), and high amounts of regenerative di-ketones. While ketone-containing essential oils are generally to be avoided, the di-ketones (specifically 'Italidiones' in Helichrysum) are perfectly safe.
Helichrysum's curcumenes, found in Ginger essential oil as well, are also chelators of metals from the body (some users will massage a diluted formula into their feet to support removal of metals from the body). The specific di-ketones are not found in any other essential oil (hence the name 'Italidiones', from Helichrysum italicum). They are thought to be potent aids in stimulating tissue regeneration. This is one of the reasons you'll frequently find Helichrysum in scar-reduction and wound healing formulas.
The Balkan variety has the highest levels of potentially anti-inflammatory curcumenes, with an aroma very similar to the Corsican.
-Helps heal burns and wounds
-Encourages cell regeneration
-Reduces scarring
-Minimizes stretch marks
-Firms and contracts exposed tissue
-Reduces moisture loss
-Tones and restores venous circulation
-Promotes the healing of tissues
-Reduces redness
-Diminishes swelling
-Neutralizes microbes
-Reduces bruising