Using Helichrysum Essential Oil For Profound Healing

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Thursday, September 11th, 2008 Subscribe To Our Feed

The precious essential oil of is relatively unknown in the United States, even in natural health and wellness circles. Interest and experience with this natural healing phenomenon is growing rapidly, however - and with very good reason. HELICHRYSUM is one of the most potent, dramatically healing essential oils used in European medical aromatherapy today. As noted by Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, America’s leading medical aromatherapist, the effects of this oil are “so convincing that it has never met with any kind of criticism.” An essential oil so useful, even those who consider aromatherapy a pseudo-science do not challenge its wonderful effects! So what is Helichrysum oil, and how can it benefit the newcomer to aromatherapy?

There are over five hundred species of the Helichrysum plant; many share the same characteristics of narrow pale green leaves and bright yellow flowers. It is only the Helichrysum ‘italicum’ species that produces the highly regarded ‘Everlasting’ or ‘Immortelle’ oil for aromatherapy. There is even a sub-species of this called ’serotinum’ which is a little more rare - if seeking out the oil, check the Latin name, and be sure it is 100% pure (unless, of course, you’re seeking a particular therapeutic recipe or dilution - even then, the aromatherapy literature states that purity of the original source material is of utmost importance to ensure efficacy).

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.”

The oil is exceptionally handy for moms with little sports enthusiasts where bumps and bruises seem to be a regular part of their game. A little Helichrysum oil immediately applied on the hurt area can prevent a bruise from even appearing, and if applied later (and perhaps several times over the next couple of days) can significantly speed healing. Of course, the effect isn’t limited to little ones - the oil is growing in popularity for folks of all ages that are into sports and fitness, for use with acute and chronic injuries alike. Most often, the oil should be used ‘neat’ right away, then a 5-10% dilution in a common base oil applied thereafter; the oil is safe to use as frequently as desired.

Helichrysum oil 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.

As you can see, Helichrysum oil offers its potent healing medicine to many folks interested in natural healing, wellness and fitness. It is an exceptionally safe oil, and can be used by health professionals without hesitation. True Helichrysum italicum may appear expensive relative to other oils, but it is often used in small amounts and low dilutions; a little will go a long way - and will be a much appreciated addition to your natural home medicine chest.

HELICHRYSUM (5ML)

About the Author: The author is a regular contributor to natural ezines on essential oils and aromatherapy . She may be contacted through www.anandaapothecary.com/essential-oils.html.

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