Helichrysum, also known as Everlasting Essential Oil or Immortelle, has been studied in Europe for regeneration of nerves, improving skin conditions, and reducing inflammation while speeding healing. Aromatically, it is thought to open the heart and clear old emotional wounds. It is considered one of the most important essential oils in aromatherapy.

There are many species of Helichrysum (over 500!) with italicum, sub-species 'serotinum' considered the best for therapeutic use. While other species of Helichrysum are distilled, it is only the 'italicum' species that produce true 'Immortelle' oil, as it is called in many aromatherapy texts. The italicum spp. serotinum grown in Corsica contains the highest levels of neryl acetate, one of the constituents that gives this essential oil its unique properties. When comparing the quality if Helichrysum, the neryl acetate level is the first topic of discussion. The Corsican varsity will also generally have the highest levels of di-ketones unique to this oil, to which the potential regenerative therapeutic action is attributed by aromatherapy professionals.

A few usage suggestions: For burns, apply undiluted as soon as possible for immediate relief - only 1-3 drops are necessary. For impact-type injuries, apply undiluted immediately to prevent initial swelling and reduce healing time; use enough to cover the area in a thin layer (this is often only a few drops). Same for 'twists' (an ankle, for example). Repeat application again in 30 minutes if you think it's necessary.

When using undiluted, just put your index finger on the top of the bottle (for 5 and 12ml bottles, otherwise dispense drop by drop using an eyedropper) and invert the bottle ~ then apply from your fingertip. We have had many reports of successful application to sports injuries and the like, with rapid healing and minimal downtime.

For older injuries (more than a few hours) it has been suggested to use diluted in any carrier oil. We personally use Jojoba most of the time, though any carrier will work. The dilution is a matter of personal preference, though we keep a bottle of 20% Helichrysum on-hand (this is 6ml in 24ml carrier oil, to fill a one-ounce glass bottle). We use this for sports injuries and pain like backaches, stiff joints and the like. For neck pain, we sometimes will use at full strength. For many users, relief is reported as nearly immediate (though this depends on how deep within the body the damage tissues are and how old the injury might be) and more profound than products which simply mask the pain. For further support for inflamed areas, 1% German Chamomile can be included.

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. It may be especially effective when combined with Rose Hip Seed oil. 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. The following combination is suggested Schnaubelt's 'Advanced Aromatherapy': 2ml Helichrysum essential oil and 1ml Sea Buckthorn essential oil in 15ml Rose Hip Seed Oil and 15ml Tamanu oil; for 'old' scars, use 2ml Helichrysum, 1ml Sea Buckthorn, and 1ml Sage OR Rosemary Verbenone essential oil in the same base.

Helichrysum oil may provide relief of joint pain for individuals with arthritic conditions, with potential significant anti-inflammatory action. Many folks use if for general stiff, painful and tight musculature as well. A recent customer had this to say about this oil: "Just a note of thanks for the speedy delivery and the great product. You can add TMJ/facial pain to uses list...which is how I've been using it. I mixed the 5ml bottle in a 2oz bottle of organic jojoba and am applying to TMJ muscles and neck (also chest)...also have experienced many interesting spirit/emotional 'releases'...this stuff works wonders".

Helichrysum may be of support for peripheral nerve-related conditions; it can be applied in 5-20% dilution to areas of numbness or tingling. It has been indicated by some users for support with symptoms of tinnitus: drop on a cotton ball, placed in the ear while sleeping each night for two weeks) and other forms of hearing loss or damage.

This essential oil contains anti-inflammatory sesquiterpene hydrocarbons - this compound acts by dissipating free radicals. Helichrysum essential oil's other major components include neryl acetate, a monoterpenoid ester with distinct, relaxing effects that may reduce tension of the tissues in the area of the injury. The third major component are the regenerative diketones, found in significant quantities only in Helichrysum oil. "The pain- reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect of everlasting (Helichrysum) is unique: If applied in time, it prevents hemorrhaging. It is also very effective for joint pain..." - Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, Advanced Aromatherapy.

The oil is also thought to be a strong chelator, supporting liver function and potentially drawing heavy metals and toxins out of the body. A strong dilution can be used (1:1 in coconut oil, for example) and massaged twice per day into the feet. The reflex points of the feet corresponding to the liver may be of greatest help in this process.

The aroma is thought to uplift the subconscious, and can be used in a diffuser if desired. It is thought to be a releaser of Qi (Chi), unblocking and regulating this essential energy in the body. It may help individuals that are emotionally blocked, dispersing more deeply embedded repression. At its most transformative, Helichrysum oil may assist in untying the deepest of emotional knots, restoring freedom and compassion to the eternal soul.

Read more about Helichrysum oil in action:
The Supportive Healing of Helichrysum
A.K.A Everlasting & Immortelle: Wondrous Essential Oil
Support for Healing Wounds and Scars with Essential Oils