Italian helichrysum is an extremely interesting medicinal plant, which is still relatively little known in Poland. Used mainly in plant-based dishes and to flavour oriental cuisine, it is also a source of a versatile essential oil. By acting on many systems of the human body, it helps in the treatment of a range of external and internal ailments. What is Italian helichrysum? How can the oil extracted from it be used? What properties does Italian helichrysum oil possess?
Italian immortelle – what is it?
Yellow immortelle, orHelichrysum italicum – these are the names given to Italian helichrysum. It is a small shrub with pale yellow flowers, native to the warm regions of Europe and Africa. When crushed, it gives off a very distinct, intense scent, and its hidden properties have been successfully used in cooking and natural medicine for hundreds of years.
Italian helichrysum is a source of essential oil rich in active ingredients, the properties of which are utilised in traditional natural medicine and the cuisine of Mediterranean countries. Its revitalising and health-promoting effects mean that the natural oil extracted from it is now used not only in cooking, but also in aromatherapy, home massages and skin care products.
Italian helichrysum – health benefits
The plant possesses a range of health-promoting qualities. These include:
- painkillers
- anti-inflammatory
- expectorants
- antispasmodic
- antibacterial
- antifungal
- relaxing
Thanks to its content of essential oils, bitter compounds and flavonoids, Italian helichrysum also has scientifically proven digestive benefits and helps support the body’s natural defences.
Italian helichrysum – what does it help with?
Studies have shown that Italian helichrysum, as well as the oil extracted from it, can help combat infections and reduce inflammation. There is evidence to suggest that helichrysum may alleviate allergy symptoms, particularly those associated with contact dermatitis, caused by the body’s direct interaction with allergens.
The use of Italian helichrysum is also recommended for all manner of problems related to microbial activity. When used in aromatherapy, the herb appears to combat colds and coughs, and may also help to reduce existing inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.
In addition to the above, Italian helichrysum aids in faster wound healing, although the mechanisms behind this effect have not been fully investigated. It is known that the antimicrobial properties of Italian helichrysum can help prevent infections, which in turn aids wound healing.
Italian helichrysum is also traditionally used to treat various digestive problems, such as:
- stomach ache
- indigestion
- reflux
- constipation
Aromatic Italian helichrysum – culinary uses
Italian helichrysum has a long-standing tradition of using cut flowers and leaves in the culinary world. It is an interesting addition to our cuisine in terms of both flavour and health benefits. When used as a spice, it has a piquant and aromatic flavour,somewhatreminiscent ofcurry.
Helichrysum flowers are ideal for flavouring rice-based dishes, soups and stews. It can also be used to flavour oils and vinegar. As helichrysum has a very intense aroma, even small amounts of the herb or flowers are enough to enhance the flavour of dishes.
Italian helichrysum oil – an effective remedy for many ailments?
Italian helichrysum also has a long tradition of medicinal use. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, whilst also improving mood. The natural essential oil extracted from it, rich in health-promoting flavonoids, is often used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema and non-healing wounds. In aromatherapy, natural Italian helichrysum essential oil is used to alleviate excessive stress and the anxiety that accompanies it – it has calming properties.
It is also worth mentioning the active ingredients in the oil. Among the most interesting of these are:
- Sesquiterpene lactones
- Triterpenes
- Caffeic and ursolic acids
- Beta-sitosterol
- Flavonoids
- Nerol, eugenol, linalool and inositol
The wealth of active substances explains the oil’s therapeutic potential. As a result, its properties can be utilised for both external and internal use, as ingestion is generally well tolerated by the body and does not carry the risk of potential side effects.
Italian helichrysum oil and aromatherapy – what is worth knowing about it?
In aromatherapy, Italian helichrysum essential oil is used in various ways. It can be diffused to create a calming atmosphere. It is often blended with other essential oils to enhance its anti-inflammatory and calming effects.
It blends well with oils such as lavender oil, rosemary oil and tea tree oil. It is also important to remember that natural helichrysum essential oil is very potent andshould be used in small quantities. Natural helichrysum essential oil can also be inhaled after spraying it onto a cloth or tissue. Due to its good volatility in the air, it is recommended to use 5 to 10 drops of the oil in a diffuser or nebuliser.
Natural Italian helichrysum essential oil – what are its properties?
Thanks to its interesting health benefits, natural Italian helichrysum essential oil is often used for a variety of purposes. It is characterised by:
- Anti-inflammatory properties – thisnaturaloil is widely used in ointments and natural remedies to soothe inflammation, muscle and joint pain.
- Supporting healthy skin –the oilcan be used to help combat acne. Its antimicrobial properties aid the regeneration of skin affected by infections.
- Combating insomnia – when used in home aromatherapy, massage and baths,the oilhas a relaxing effect on the central nervous system (CNS), reducing excessive arousal and anxiety that contribute to difficulty falling asleep.
- Relieving digestive discomfort –the oilis used to combat various digestive ailments. Both tea made from dried flower heads and the natural essential oil help to stimulate the production of gastric juices. In fact, consuming it is associated with relief from abdominal pain, heartburn, indigestion and constipation.
- Antifungal and antiviral action –the oilhelps to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria in respiratory tract infections (making breathing easier) and skin infections. It also halts the growth of certain fungal species associated with thrush (localised inflammation of the mucous membranes), skin conditions and other infections.
- Boosting the immune system –flavonoidsand phloroglucinols exhibit immunostimulatory potential. In this way, it alleviates headaches, flu symptoms, colds and cold sores.
Italian helichrysum essential oil and acne
Italian helichrysum essential oil can be used in creams to treat skin problems. It works very well in treating skin tension,firming areas affected by bruises.
When applied topically, the oil should always be diluted in a carrier oil or cream. Its benefits for the circulatory system make it an interesting addition to creams or ointments used to treat problems associated with dilated capillaries. It therefore aidsthe care ofacne-prone skin, accelerates healing, and also reducesthe sensation of heavy legs and even phlebitis. It is a powerful blood-thinning agent.
As an active ingredient in homemade balms, the oil is a true ally for skin prone to acne, scarring, psoriasis, and even dry, weeping eczema. Helichrysum is a true remedy for achieving beautiful and delicate skin.
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