Using Helichrysum Essential Oil For Profound Healing

by: EricaAllen
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In the United States, common use of the term 'Aromatherapy' is a bit misleading. The practice has been given a 'touchy-feely', 'soft-science' status to the general public through mainstream media. With progressive natural health practitioners, and throughout much of the rest of the world, the therapeutic use of essential oils has a more elevated, scientifically-backed status. In the realm of medical aromatherapy, Helichrysum italicum essential oil holds an important place for its broad range of healing actions, which can benefit individuals from many walks of life.

With so many species of Helichrysum grown, and several essential oils distilled from these, it is important to recognize the most important of the therapeutic varieties. It is the 'italicum' species of the Helichrysum plant that is mentioned with highest regard in the aromatherapy literature; moreover, the 'serotinum' sub-species may be the most potent. When looking for the oil, be sure it is 100% pure, undiluted, Helichrysum italicum for best effects.

Helichrysum has its origins in coastal Mediterranean regions, where the bulk of its farming and distilling continues to take place. The island of Corsica is renowned for exceptional grades of the essential oil, with correspondingly high prices. The oil's growing demand has sparked interest in essential oil distillers in the US, and outstanding certified organic varieties are now being produced domestically. These oils represent a great bargain, as their laboratory results show very high levels of molecular healing components, with lower prices than their European counterparts.

By now you're likely asking: "So what does it DO?" Ah, well, a great many things! Helichrysum italicum is a unique essential oil in its distinct synergy of molecular components. It is the only oil known to contain safe but powerful regenerative di-ketones. Its curcumene components have been studied for their anti-inflammatory action; further, the oil contains what are known as 'spasmolytic esters' which cause tissues to relax. Relaxing, anti-inflammatory and regenerative - a wonderful combination in a single therapeutic oil.

The oil has a great variety of applications due to this broad range of action: "The pain-reducing, analgesic, and regenerative effect is unique" states Dr. Schnaubelt. It is regularly used for skin, muscle and connective tissue injuries and healing with profound results. As noted in 'Medical Aromatherapy': "Generally, Helichrysum italicum works for all conditions in which inflamed tissue needs to be calmed down and regenerated."

Helichrysum oil is wonderful for active sports and fitness enthusiasts of all sorts. Its anti-inflammatory action is so helpful for bumps, bruises, sprains and strains; Its effect is so potent that in many cases, it may prevent bruising and swelling all together if applied in time. Even if applied later, as one would an Arnica preparation, it will still speed healing. Chronic injuries may also be helped with other supportive ingredients. Tendonitis can be treated, for example, with a blend using 1 part per 100 each of Helichrysum italicum, Lemon Eucalyptus and Yarrow essential oils in a base oil of your choosing - a base of comfrey cream may be most beneficial.

Helichrysum is included in many therapeutic blends for the skin. It is considered anti-inflammatory, tissue regenerating and a cicatrisant (scar reducing). To treat scars, old and new, use 25 drops Helichrysum, 25 drops Rosemary Verbenone and 75 drops Calophyllum (Tamanu) in each ounce of Hazelnut oil. Apply regularly to the scar; this formula is even used for smoothing of old keloid scars over a period of six months. For additional support, add 75 drops of Rosehip seed oil to the blend. Helichrysum is used in blends to reduce stretch marks after pregnancy: Use a 3% dilution of Helichrysum oil in Hazelnut with 20% Rosehip seed as the base and apply regularly. During pregnancy, a low dilution blend (1% total essential oils) of Neroli and Cypress in Hazelnut oil is recommended to prevent the marks from occurring. Hemorrhoids may be relieved with 1% Helichrysum and 1% German Chamomile in Sesame oil. Allergic skin reactions and eczema may be calmed with 1% each Helichrysum and Blue Tansy essential oils in Hazelnut oil.

Briefly, Helichrysum italicum is also used for neuralgia - with its regenerative and analgesic actions: Use the oil diluted as a massage formula for painful or tingling areas. . It may offer support for other physical conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis in a similar blend, with other warming oils added for improved circulation (small amounts of Black Pepper and Ginger essential oils are often used). The oil may help tinnitus symptoms: place one drop on a cotton ball in the ear each night for one to two weeks. Helichrysum acts as an anti-coagulant, and is supportive of the veins and in cases where vein degeneration has lead to clot formation. It can offer support in cases of coughs, colds and asthma; It is further used for headaches, nervous tension, and exhaustion from stress. Consult a knowledgeable practitioner for advice on Helichrysum's use as part of your health and wellness program.

On the more esoteric side, where aromatherapy also affects the psyche and emotions, according to Mojay's 'Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit': "Those (emotions) that are most indicated...sare enduring resentment, half-conscious anger, bitterness of spirit, and a stubbornly negative attitude." For many, there can be a direct link between these hardened emotions and physical manifestation of illness. Aromatherapy massage with Helichrysum may be extremely beneficial, as one receives the oil's aroma, its biological effects, and the healing touch of massage. Here, the oil may be used in a 1-3% dilution, alone or with other oils tailored to the person's needs.

So whether you've got energetic kids, you're active sports enthusiast, you're healing your skin in one of many ways, or have other muscular, nerve, joint or vascular conditions, essential oil of the Helichrysum italicum flower may bring welcome healing action. As a natural health professional, you may employ Helichrysum regularly, as it is a safe essential oil with no contraindications. The oil is precious - the flower only yields a small amount, though a little goes a long way (as with most essential oils). It is only used undiluted in acute cases; otherwise a dilution of 3% or less is often called for. Helichrysum is one of aromatherapy's stand-out healing oils, coming highly recommended by many natural healers, and deserves a place in nearly everyone's medicine chest.

About the Author

The author is a natural health practitioner in Boulder, Colorado. She is a regular user of therapeutic aromatherapy and consultant to aromatherapy creations at The Ananda Apothecary.  

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