Everlasting (Helichrysum)

Botanical Name: Helichrysum italicum

Botany and Origins: A strongly aromatic shrub with many branched stems that are woody at the base and grows up 0.6m high. It is also known as Helichrysum or Immortelle. When dried the brightly coloured, daisy-like flowers retain their colour and shape hence the name everlasting or immortelle. The plant grows wild and is cultivated in the south of France, Italy, former Yugoslavia and other Mediterranean countries. There are about 500 species of helichrysum, but many of these do not produce an essential oil. The main species used for the production of essential oil are

• Helichrysum italium or Helichrysum angustifolium (Corscia & former Yugoslavia)
• Helichrysum stoechas DC (France)
• Helichrysum gymnocephalum H. Humb (Madagascar)
• Helichrysum patulum (South Africa)

Method of Extraction: Everlasting or Helichrysum oil is steam distilled from the flowering tops.

Cultivation: Conventional

Historical and Traditional Uses: The name Helichrysum comes from the Greek word helios (sun) and chrysos (gold) because of the way these plants bloom gives the impression of little golden suns. In traditional herbal medicine, everlasting or helichrysum is used as an expectorant, antitussive, choleretic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antiallergenic agent in Europe. It has been used for bronchitis, asthma, whooping cough, psoriasis, burns, rheumatism, headache, migraines, allergies and liver ailments and it is usually taken in the form of a decoction or infusion.

Pharmacology and Clinical Studies: Everlasting oil has been reported to exhibit antimicrobial properties in vitro against Staphyloccus aureus, Escherichia coli, a Mycobacterium species and Candida albicans.

Indications:

• Circulatory System: Among its chemical constituents is a group of ketone-like compounds called beta-diones. It is this group of constituents that contributes to the oil's anticoagulant properties, making it applicable in the treatment of any severe bruising that results in haematoma.
• Detoxification: Everlasting is well known for its ability to purify the blood. It is suggested that Everlasting helps drain the lymph glands. It was recommended using Everlasting when performing a lymphatic drainage massage. It is well known as a stimulant to the liver, gall bladder, kidney, spleen and pancreas - the organs responsible for detoxifying the body.
• Integumentary System: Everlasting is reputed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is recommended for eczema and allergies. Blending Everlasting with Rock Rose and Lavender for treating skin allergies, eczema, rashes and psoriasis. Everlasting may be used for the treatment of large injuries until professional care is available. It is recommended to apply undiluted oil onto the wound, before it is bandaged for the trip to the hospital. It will not cause any irritation and will reduce swelling and inflammation and speed up the wound healing process.
• Musculoskeletal System: Everlasting's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Respiratory System: It has mucolytic, antispasmodic and expectorant properties which make it beneficial for treating sinus infections, bronchitis and coughs.
• Skin Care: It is used in skin care because of its excellent anti-inflammatory activity. It is recommended where there is inflamed tissue which needs to be calmed down and regenerated.

Safety: Everlasting oil has been reported to be non-toxic, non-irritant and non sensitising. 

Country of Origin: Corsica

Size: 10ml, 30ml, 50ml (for 100ml and above, please contact us)