11 Reasons to Use Helichrysum Essential Oil Daily: It Does So Much for the Human Body

Helichrysum essential oil has been used for centuries in Mediterranean countries.  Know as “Siempreviva” in Spanish (meaning, always alive) because the beautiful yellow flowers take so long to wither, Helichrysum contains a variety of life preserving, therapeutic properties.  Often used by the cosmetic industry, due to its sweet smell and ability to remove fine lines and wrinkles, this essential oil also has healing properties for a variety of conditions such as poor blood circulation, liver problems, acne, etc.

  

Here is a list of some of the most common conditions Helichrysum can help relieve.

• Acne
• Colds
• Skin Inflammation
• Wounds
• Scars
• Sunburns
• Liver diseases
• Constipation
• Muscle and Joint Inflammation
• Infections
• Stomach disorders

As you can see Helichrysum is a powerful therapeutic tool for a variety of conditions and can be used aromatically, topically or ingested.  Much of its efficacy comes from its long list of metabolites, pyrones, triterpenoids and flavonoids contained in this essential oil.  Helichrysum also is rich in antioxidants such as acetophenones and phloroglucinols.  Let’s look a little closer at how you can take advantage of the healing properties and safety of Helichrysum:

  

Rashes/Infections and Wounds:  Studies at the University of Beira in Portugal, confirmed Helichrysum’s efficacy in treating skin bacteria and fungus growth.  This includes rashes, itching, redness and even acne.  Try mixing with Jojoba oil for topical applications.  You can add Lavender essential oil as well for treating poison ivy.

Sunburn:  As we enter the summer season keep Helichrysum handy for both sunburn relief and prevention.  Add a few drops to coconut oil for a natural sunscreen.  For sunburns, add Helichrysum and Frankincense to Shea butter.  Melt all together in a double boiler (do not microwave) and apply directly to sun-burnt skin.

Acne:  The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help to destroy bacteria that causes acne while not drying out the skin like many conventional acne treatments.

  

Indigestion:  Properties contained in Helichrysum stimulate the secretion of gastric juices that help breakdown and process food.  Traditional Turkish medicine used Helichrysum for reducing bloating and water retention.

Hemorrhoids:  Add a few drops to a cotton ball and apply directly to hemorrhoids in order to reduce inflammation and pain.

Kidney Stones:  Try rubbing a few drops of Helichrysum directly onto the abdomen for kidney stones.  By detoxifying the liver and kidney’s, Helichrysum can help reduce or prevent kidney stones.  Also, add a few drops of a citrus based essential oil like lemon, lime or wild orange to a glass of water every day.

As you can see there are many therapeutic ways to incorporate Helichrysum into your life.  Generally speaking it is well tolerated, but some people may have an allergic reaction, but this is very rare.  Also, be sure to buy high quality Helichrysum as many of the plants used today are not organic.  Be sure to know the source of all essential oils you purchase as quality definitely matters for safety and efficacy.