Uses, benefits and properties of Helichrysum italicum in health, beauty and cooking

Introduction to Helichrysum italicum: An extraordinary medicinal plant

Helichrysum italicus, also known as helichrysum, everlasting, curry plant or golden flower, is an aromatic and medicinal plant of great importance in phytotherapy and natural cosmetics. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, it is noted for its flowers. bright yellow that seems never to fade, its characteristic aroma reminiscent of curry and its fame as a plant with exceptional properties.

Originally from the Mediterranean region, the Helichrysum italicus It has a long history of use in different cultures for its health, skin, and even culinary benefits. Below, we exhaustively explore its traditional and modern uses, active ingredients, therapeutic effects, cosmetic and culinary applications, administration methods, contraindications, and recommendations for storage and purchase.

Botanical description and habitat

Helichrysum is a perennial and herbaceous plant which can reach 10 to 50 centimeters in height, with branchy stems covered by a fine white fuzz that gives it a silvery appearance. Its leaves are narrow, lanceolate and whitish, while the flowers, grouped in heads, are small, tubular and of a very bright golden yellowThe fruit is a small brown achene.

It prefers arid, stony and sunny habitats near the sea, with special abundance in the mediterranean basin: Iberian Peninsula, Sardinia, Corsica, the Balearic Islands, southern France, the Balkans, and even some regions of Asia and Africa. In the Iberian Peninsula, it is particularly present in coastal sandbanks, and can also be found cultivated in gardens and orchards for its ornamental and health-promoting uses. It is primarily harvested in spring, when flowering reaches its peak.

History, mythology and popular names

Name Helichrysum It derives from the Greek terms “helios” (sun) and “chrysos” (gold), in allusion to the bright golden color of its flowers. greeks and romans They already valued helichrysum for its medicinal properties and as a symbol of eternity, using its flowers to decorate tombs and rituals. In the Middle Ages, it was attributed with magical virtues, being used to perfume clothes and environments, protect from evil influences and as a perfume fixer natural.

Known in different places as everlasting, rock flower, immortal, curry plant and other names, helichrysum has been the protagonist of popular legends, such as that of the nymph Elichrys, who was transformed into an immortal plant with golden hair. It is traditionally linked with the San Juans night, a time when many herbs are collected because they are believed to have magical properties.

Active ingredients: chemical composition that explains their uses

El Helichrysum italicus It owes its many properties to a unique combination of active ingredients, including:

• Flavonoids: apigenol, luteolol, kaempferol, quercetol, naringenin, helichrysins and salipurposide (the latter gives the flowers their yellow color).
• chalcones: isohelichrysin and isosalipurposide.
• Aromatic essential oil: rich in neryl acetate, alpha and beta-pinene, eugenol, linalool and other terpenes such as italicene, ithalidiones, and pinenes. Its chromatographic profile varies depending on the plant's geographic origin.
• Sesquiterpene lactones: scopoletin, umbelliferone and esculetin.
• Organic and phenolic acids: caffeic acid, ursolic acid and ketone derivatives such as arenol and homoarenol.
• Other components: beta-sitosterol, campesterol, tannins, arenarine (with antibacterial action) and bitter principles.

This phytochemical richness explains the wide variety of therapeutic applications attributed to it, which have been validated by tradition and even by recent scientific research.

Medicinal properties and therapeutic uses

The active ingredients of Helichrysum italicus They produce remarkable therapeutic effects, both internally and externally. The areas where they are most commonly used, thanks to their synergistic action on various organic functions, are:

• Anti-inflammatory: It has effects comparable to natural corticosteroids, reducing inflammation both at the cutaneous and internal level.
• Antiallergic: It acts against topical (cutaneous) and systemic allergic reactions, being useful in cases of urticaria, dermatitis, respiratory and digestive allergies.
• antirust: Its flavonoids protect cells from oxidative damage, helping to prevent premature aging.
• Antimicrobial: It presents activity against bacteria, fungi and viruses, useful in skin disinfection and the prevention of infections.
• Healing and cell regenerating: Promotes the healing of wounds, burns, scars, stretch marks and skin lesions.
• Expectorant and antitussive: Relieves coughs, thins secretions and is beneficial in bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis, rhinitis and other respiratory conditions.
• Digestive and carminative: Improves heavy digestion, relieves heartburn, reflux and gas, and can benefit those suffering from colitis or intestinal inflammation.
• Hepatoprotective: Stimulates liver and biliary function, purifies the liver and is useful in hepatitis, cholecystitis and biliary disorders.
• Antispasmodic and muscle relaxant: Soothes muscle spasms and pain, suitable for contractures or tension related to sports.
• Balsamic: Suitable for colds and respiratory processes that require decongestion and symptomatic relief.
• Diuretic and purifying: Helps eliminate toxins and fluids, promoting general body cleansing.
• Cholagogue and choleretic: Stimulates the production and expulsion of bile, supporting the digestion of fats.
• Bacteriostatic and skin protective: Maintains the integrity of the skin and prevents secondary infections in wounds or eczema.
• Moisturizing and toning: Promotes skin elasticity and firmness, preventing the formation of wrinkles and signs of aging.
• Mild hypocholesterolemic: Some compounds can help reduce high cholesterol levels.

Traditional and modern clinical indications

• Respiratory conditions: bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, flu, colds, sinusitis, rhinitis, tonsillitis.
• Allergies: dermatitis, urticaria, hay fever, food allergies, atopic skin.
• Liver and digestive disorders: hepatitis, cholecystitis, dyspepsia, colitis, flatulence, slow digestion.
• Dermatological: eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, burns, wounds, scars, stretch marks, dermatitis, phlebitis, periodontal disease, blepharoconjunctivitis.
• Muscle and joint problems: rheumatism, gout, migraines, muscle pain, sprains, contractures.
• Other apps: stress, insomnia, anxiety, circulatory disorders, cellulite and anti-aging cosmetic care.

Ways of use and preparations

Helichrysum can be used in different forms depending on the therapeutic goal and the user's profile. The most common forms and their recommended uses include:

• InfusionIndicated for digestive and respiratory problems, and as a purifying tonic. Prepared with dried flowering tops (approximately one teaspoon per cup), pouring hot water over the tops and letting it steep for 5-7 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 cups daily.
• Decoction: Mainly used for external washes, compresses, or soothing baths for irritated skin, wounds, or burns. Boil the flowers in water for several minutes, let them cool, and apply them to the affected area with cloths.
• Tincture: A hydroalcoholic preparation used as an internal tonic (diluted in water) for purifying and hepatoprotective effects. The usual dosage is 40 drops in a glass of water, 1-2 times a day.
• Fluid and dry extract: They are available in herbalists and pharmacies in concentrated forms and can be used alone or in combination with other plants with synergistic action (anti-allergy, depurative or hepatoprotective).
• Syrup: Used in the treatment of coughs, respiratory conditions or for children, under professional supervision.
• OiledHelichrysum can be macerated in vegetable oil to obtain a preparation ideal for massages, anti-stretch mark treatments, after sun exposure or for minor circulatory problems.
• Topical cream, ointment, or gel: It is common in natural pharmacy and cosmetics, indicated to treat wounds, burns, dermatitis, hemorrhoids, and post-sun skin care.
• Essential oil: Primarily used externally, in minimal doses, diluted in carrier oils (jojoba, almond, argan). It is very potent and should be applied with caution to treat scars, wrinkles, bruises, blows, muscle pain, and as an anti-aging facial treatment. It is also appreciated in aromatherapy, diffusers, and massages.

Helichrysum italicum in natural cosmetics

Helichrysum is a reference ingredient in skin care, hair care, and anti-aging cosmeticsIts most notable effects in this area are:

• Skin rejuvenation: Promotes collagen production and skin elasticity, which helps reduce the formation of wrinkles and expression lines.
• Treatment of acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis: Its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and regenerative properties are effective in calming outbreaks, reducing redness and fighting secondary infections.
• Healing and repairingIdeal for minimizing scars and blemishes following wounds or burns; prevents the formation of keloids and stretch marks.
• Relief from burns, bumps and bruises: Its essential oil accelerates tissue recovery, reduces inflammation and pain.
• Cellulite control: The italidions in essential oil contribute to tissue elasticity and circulation, facilitating the elimination of fat cells.
• Deep hydration: Provides nutrients and hydration without clogging pores, suitable for dry, sensitive skin prone to irritation.
• Hair care: Regulates sebum production, soothes irritated scalps, fights dandruff, and strengthens the structure of damaged or dry hair.

In homemade cosmetics, it can be added to serums, masks, lotions, and natural toners. It combines well with aloe vera, honey, and pure plant oils to enhance its rejuvenating and soothing properties.

Uses of helichrysum in the kitchen

Thanks to its Intense and herbaceous aroma, with nuances reminiscent of licorice, curry and chamomile, helichrysum finds highly valued culinary uses in Mediterranean gastronomy:

• In savory dishes: The fresh or dried leaves and flowers can be used as a seasoning for white meats, fish, cheeses, vegetables, risottos and soups, providing a unique aromatic touch.
• In pastries and dessertsHelichrysum cake is traditional in Sardinia, incorporating finely chopped flowers into the dough to give it sweet and aromatic notes.
• Helichrysum liqueur: It is prepared by macerating fresh flowers in alcohol, filtering and adding sugar syrup to obtain a traditional digestive.

It is not a spicy spice, but rather refreshing and fragrant, so it is best used in small doses so as not to mask the main flavor of the dish.

Essential oil profiles according to plant origin

Helichrysum essential oil varies in composition according to their botanical origin and growing conditionsThe most representative chromatographic profiles are:

• Corsican profile: Rich in neryl acetate; considered very effective in anti-hematoma action.
• Italian profiles: They can be rich in neryl acetate or italicene, but are usually lower in ithalidiones (except in some regions).
• Balkan profiles: They usually contain less neryl acetate and more ithalidiones and pinenes.

This variability is influenced by soil, climate, altitude, harvest time, and plant genetics, which impacts the oil's therapeutic effects and applications.

Scientific studies and clinical evidence

Others clinical and laboratory studies The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of Helichrysum italicum have been confirmed. Research in animal and human models has demonstrated its ability to reduce inflammation, accelerate healing, and limit the growth of pathogenic bacteria (such as Staphylococcus aureus). The scientific literature includes studies on its usefulness in the treatment of dermatoses, hard-to-heal wounds, skin infections, and its antioxidant action that protects the skin and organs.

Contraindications, precautions and side effects

In the recommended doses and quality commercial preparations, the Helichrysum italicus is generally safe and well tolerated. However, there are certain contraindications and precautions:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Internal use of essential oil is not recommended during these stages, due to the absence of conclusive studies on its safety.
• Hypersensitivity or allergyMild allergic reactions have been reported in people sensitive to some of its components. It is recommended to test on a small area of ​​skin before using the essential oil.
• Bile duct occlusion: Contraindicated in people with biliary obstruction, unless medically indicated.
• Children and essential oils: The use of essential oils should be supervised by professionals, avoiding their application in minors without adequate control.
• Topical use of essential oil: It should always be applied diluted in a carrier oil to avoid irritation and never on large open wounds.
• Drug interactions: No significant interactions are known, but extreme caution is advised in people receiving treatment with anticoagulants or liver-acting medications.
• Potential neurotoxicity: Pure essential oil can have neurotoxic effects if used in excess, so external use is preferable.

Generally speaking, no serious side effects have been described in the scientific literature, provided that the recommendations of herbal medicine or aromatherapy specialists are followed.

Tips for choosing, preserving, and purchasing quality Helichrysum italicum

To obtain all the benefits of helichrysum, it is essential to purchase high-quality products and store them properly:

• Choose pure essential oils, without additives or diluents, certified and indicating its botanical origin and chemotype.
• Dried flowers and preparations They must come from organic farming and have been dried in dark, ventilated places that preserve their active ingredients.
• Keep products in amber glass containers, in cool, dark places, away from heat and humidity, to preserve its effectiveness and aroma for longer.
• Avoid synthetic versions that do not contain the same therapeutic compounds as the natural plant.

For purchases, go to herbalists, e-commerce stores, and stores specializing in natural products that certify the origin and quality of the product.

Frequently asked questions about the use of Helichrysum italicum

• Can helichrysum be used daily? Yes, in the form of a topical cosmetic or infusion, following the dosage recommendations and checking individual tolerance.
• Are there differences between essential oil and extracts? Essential oils are more concentrated and should be used with greater caution; extracts and infusions are suitable for more frequent use.
• Can I combine it with other medicinal plants? Yes, especially in herbal preparations and cosmetics, it enhances its action alongside soothing, anti-inflammatory, or purifying plants such as calendula, chamomile, aloe vera, or lavender.
• Is helichrysum safe for pets? In small doses and in commercial preparations for animals, but always under veterinary supervision.

Curiosities and ethnobotanical value

Helichrysum, in addition to its medicinal and cosmetic uses, has a notable value in Mediterranean folk culture. It is attributed with magical properties for protecting the home and was once used to preserve the color of white clothing. Its resistance to wilting has led its flowers to be used as an ornament in wreaths, floral arrangements, and as a symbol of peace. immortality.

In botanical literature, it is one of the species studied for its pharmacological action, with numerous mentions in treatises on phytotherapy and natural medicine.

El Helichrysum italicus It is a plant of astonishing versatility that excels in both natural medicine and cosmetics and gastronomy. Its wide range of active ingredients gives it unique properties: anti-inflammatory, healing, antioxidant, antimicrobial, digestive, and anti-allergy. It also provides effective solutions for the skin, the respiratory and digestive systems, and overall body balance. Used responsibly and following expert recommendations, it constitutes a true natural treasure for well-being and beauty. Quality, origin, and use are key factors to maximize its benefits in daily life.