Description
The essential oil is from the Helichrysum splendidum plant and is said to have many different benefits, such as its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is used for its sedative and anti-anxiety properties, as well as its ability to be an effective parasite and insect repellent. It is also used to fumigate sick rooms and to make a perfume.
It is said to be useful for rheumatoid arthritis, stress, insomnia, depression, and fungal infections, such as athletes foot. It can also be used for its antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antiallergenic properties. The high calarene content is said to bring with it sedative and anti-anxiety properties and the germacrene D-4-ool is said to possess anti-microbial and antifungal properties. Helichrysum has also been described as having other properties, such as analgesic, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant and immunomodulatory. It has been used in face and body products to filter UV rays. From an emotional and energetic perspective it has been used to assist with negative emotional issues, such as anger, frustration, stress, depression and lethargy.
Product Specifications:TheHelichrysumgenus belongs to the Asteraceae family and has over 600 species, spread throughout the world of which about 246 are found in Southern Africa.Helichrysum splendidumis easily able to reach 1.5m high and 1m wide within two years, forming a dense grey mound. The new, outer growth is stiff, but not woody, whilst the older branches in the middle and at the base of the plant turn brown with age. The stems and the soft young leaves are covered with a thick felt of wooly white hairs, making the plant appear grey in colour. This adaption reflects the sunlight and reduces transpiration. The plant has adapted to tolerate extended dry periods and grows at a wide range of altitudes from sea level to 1,700m above sea level. They prefer sandy or loamy soils and full sun to partial shade.
typical country of origin:
South Africa
helichrysum pure essential oil can be used as:
The nameHelichrysumis derived from the Greek word helios, meaning sun, and chrysos meaning gold, referring to the typically bright yellow colour of many of the flowers of the species in this genus. The essential oil is said to boast many different full-body benefits, owing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Traditional uses:
The leaves and stems are widely used as incense to invoke the goodwill of the ancestors.
The dried leaves and flowers are smoked before bedtime for their sedative effect and to treat insomnia.
It is an effective parasite and insect repellent, especially towards mosquitos, and is used to fumigate sick rooms.
Xhosa folk in the Eastern Cape inhale the smoke as a protective cleanser and as a treatment for chest congestion.
The flowers have been made into a paste to assist with acne.
Tswana women make a perfume by pounding the whole plant to powder and mixing it with fat.
technique of extraction method:
The essential oil is produced by steam distillation of the flower petals, stem and leaves. The oil is yellow to light green in colour with an herbaceous, earthly and pungent scent. Some may find the smell unappealing. The flowers have a papery texture and retain their shape and colour after being dried, hence the common name of everlasting flower.
caution:
May affect sensitive skin. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctors care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. AlthoughHelichrysum splendidumis considered to be non-toxic and non-irritant, it could be sensitising to some individuals.
The contents of the Knysna Health website shall not be regarded as medical advice, or a basis from which to make medical decisions. The use of information found on this site is completely your responsibility and at your own risk. Our recommendation is that if you have health concerns that you feel unsure about how to deal with, that you contact your trusted health professional for personalized advice.
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