Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum) also known as Everlasting, is in the daisy family (Asteraceae or Compositae) and the oil today comes from Yugoslavia, Corsica, Utah and Ecuador. Helichrysum is an aromatic shrub with silvery-grey lance like leaves and clusters of small bright yellow flowers. When dried, the plant keeps its shape and the flower heads their yellow color-hence the name "everlasting." It is also known as the Italian straw flower.
Traditionally in Europe it was used for asthma, whooping cough, arthritis, headaches, liver ailments and skin conditions including burns, allergies and psoriasis. Usually it was taken in the form of an infusion and the herb was taken to help expel worms.
Today helichrysum is an extremely valuable oil for healing. It is one of the few known oils that can stop hemorrhaging. It has been found to be anticoagulant, anesthetic, antispasmodic, antiviral, a liver protectant, detoxifier and stimulant, it chelates chemicals and toxins and regenerates nerves. It is used for the Herpes virus, arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, hypertension, blood clots, liver disorders, circulatory disorders, skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, scar tissue and varicose veins. What makes helichrysum unique is its ability to regulate the blood. Among its chemical constituents are a group of ketone-like compounds called beta-diones. It is this group of molecules within the oil that contribute mainly to its anticoagulant action, making it applicable in the treatment of any severe bruising that results in hematomas. The fragrance opens hearts to the unseen energies that affect our lives here in earth. For emotional healing, it is used to encourage calm, acceptance, dreams, patience, perseverance, inner strength, and awareness.
Helichrysum mixes well with bergamot, cedarwood, German chamomile, clary sage, cypress, frankincense, geranium, grapefruit, juniper, lavender, lemon, palmarosa, pine, rosemary, sage, thyme linalool, rose, and ylang ylang. You can apply 2-4 drops on location, temple, forehead, back of neck or outside of ear. For cuts or more sever hemorrhaging, apply the oil directly to the wound to coagulate the blood. For bruises, rub the oil over the bruise area to help re-absorb the blood in the tissues. It can be directly inhaled, diffused or taken as a dietary supplement. As for safety, helichrysum is non-toxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing. Want to learn more about the healing properties of helichrysum and other essential oils? Consider becoming a certified aromatherapist. Educational courses in healing energy and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body / mind / spirit.