Also known as imortelle or everlasting, Helichrysum oil is synonymous with "rejuvenating" in the world of natural beauty. Like Lavender, it is a panacea for wellness, with a plethora of research indicating its potential benefits for everything from acne and the appearance of wrinkles to infections and first aid.

Helichrysum Origin & History

This liquid gold is distilled from the bright yellow flowers of the helichrysum plant (also known as the curry plant). The Helichrysum italicum plant is native to areas around the Mediterranean Sea, while other varieties can be found in South Africa and Asia. The name Helichrysum comes from a combination of the Greek words "helios," meaning sun, and "chrysos," meaning gold.

Helichrysum essential oil has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for a wide variety of ailments, including sleep, wounds, allergies and more (1). Modern day research and test results are now proving what our ancestors discovered long ago - Helichrysum essential oil is a natural wonder for your home pharmacy.

10 Ways to Use Helichrysum Essential Oil

According to research, Helichrysum's benefits stem from its anti inflammatory & antibacterial properties (2), as well as its tissue regenerative potential (3). Here are just a few of the ways you can use helichrysum essential oil for day to day wellness support.

Helichrysum for Daily Skincare

When diluted in a virgin plant oil like jojoba or sweet almond, helichrysum essential oil can gently support daily skincare. Its soothing, regenerative properties help calm irritation, reduce blemishes, and promote a healthy, radiant complexion. Apply to your face, neck and body, avoiding contact with the area around your eyes.

Helichrysum for Scars 

Helichrysum essential oil is well-known for its skin-regenerating properties, making it a popular natural remedy for reducing the appearance of scars (4). Its ability to support collagen production, improve skin tone, and promote tissue repair can help fade both old and new scars over time. The key is consistent application.

Helichrysum for Yeast Infections 

Helichrysum essential oil may offer natural support for managing yeast due to its potential antifungal and antimicrobial properties (2). When properly diluted, it can be applied topically to help reduce inflammation, combat fungal overgrowth (such as Candida), and support the skin’s natural healing process.

It’s important to use this oil with caution—always dilute with a gentle carrier and consult a healthcare professional before using on the affected area to ensure safety and effectiveness. 

Helichrysum for Joints 

Thanks to its well documented anti-inflammatory potential (5), Helichrysum essential oil is a natural ally for easing joint discomfort & stiffness. When applied topically with a carrier oil, it can support mobility and provide topical relief—making it a gentle yet effective option for daily joint care. 

Helichrysum Oil for Sore Muscles 

As with joints, Helichrysum essential oil is a powerful natural remedy for sore, tired muscles. It can help reduce tension, ease stiffness, and support muscle recovery.

Dilute in a carrier oil for a post workout deep tissue massage: the movement + the helichrysum help improve circulation and calm discomfort. This oil is a great choice for athletes, active lifestyles, or anyone dealing with everyday wear & tear. 

Helichrysum for Blemish-Prone Skin 

Daily use of Helichrysum hydrosol or Helichrysum essential oil (diluted in a carrier oil) can help promote clear skin, thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. It gently soothes irritation, calms redness, and helps your skin's immune system deal with the bacteria that contribute to breakouts—all without drying or stripping the skin.

Helichrysum essential oil is great for spot-treatment, too. Blend at a 5% dilution rate with a carrier oil in a roller bottle, and you have a great remedy to keep in your bag or your desk for skincare "emergencies".

Helichrysum Oil for After-Sun Care 

Thanks to its calming properties, Helichrysum essential oil has some serious soothing power for skin that has been in the sun a little too long.  

First, use cool water or a hydrosol to bring your skin’s temperature down. Once your skin is cool (typically a few hours later), apply a blend of Helichrysum Essential Oil (<5%) in Calendula Virgin Plant Oil.  

Helichrysum for Shaving 

This essential oil is a pro when it comes to handling skin irritations – including razor burn! Before shaving, apply a drop diluted in your moisturizer or a carrier oil to damp skin. This both softens the hair follicles for a smoother glide and soothes any discomfort.  

Sensitivity in the Inner Ears

Helichrysum oil can be massaged along the sides of the neck to help with sensitivity in the inner ears. A gentle stroking motion from the area directly below your ear lobe to the base of your neck promotes lymphatic drainage and can help ease tension. Never put essential oils directly in your ears.

Helichrysum Essential Oil for First-Aid

Wound healing is a complex process that involves different types of cells working together. Two important cell types—fibroblasts and skin stem cells—help rebuild damaged tissue.

One study looked at how helichrysum hydrosol affects these cells in lab tests. Researchers tested how well the cells survived, grew, and repaired a scratch-like wound.

The results showed that the H. italicum hydrosol helped both stem cells and fibroblasts grow and heal faster. It also boosted the activity of genes related to regeneration. These findings suggest that Helichrysum Hydrosol could be useful for improving wound healing (3).

Tips for Using Helichrysum Essential Oil 

Here are a couple tips for using Helichrysum safely and effectively, whether your aim is to use it every day for skincare, or to target a specific concern.  

Can I use Helichrysum directly on my skin? 

Helichrysum essential oil should be diluted in a carrier oil to avoid possible skin sensitivity. It is a powerful essential oil - a small amount goes a long way. We recommend a < 5% dilution rate (7 drops or less per 5ml/tsp). 

How do I create my own Helichrysum blend? 

Start by selecting a carrier oil. Jojoba or Argan are great neutral oils that benefit most skin types. For muscles & joints, consider using a carrier like Tamanu for extra soothing support. For calming skincare, you could try Calendula. Explore all of our Virgin Plant Oils here!

Once you've selected your carrier oil, combine with Helichrysum in a clean glass bottle. As mentioned above, use a dilution rate of up to 5%. 

Helichrysum Precautions 

Avoid contact with mucous membranes. If you have any concerns, consult with your healthcare practitioner. To avoid an allergic reaction, do a simple patch test on the inside of your elbow before use. Do not use helichrysum essential oil if you are pregnant or nursing. 

References

(1) Antunes Viegas D, Palmeira-de-Oliveira A, Salgueiro L, Martinez-de-Oliveira J, Palmeira-de-Oliveira R. Helichrysum italicum: from traditional use to scientific data. J Ethnopharmacol. 2014;151(1):54-65. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.11.005. Epub 2013 Nov 14. PMID: 24239849.

(2) Šovljanski O, Aćimović M, Tomić A, Lončar B, Miljković A, Čabarkapa I, Pezo L. Antibacterial and Antifungal Potential of Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don Essential Oil. Antibiotics (Basel). 2024 Aug 1;13(8):722. doi: 10.3390/antibiotics13080722. PMID: 39200022; PMCID: PMC11350649.

(3) Serra D, Bellu E, Garroni G, Cruciani S, Sarais G, Dessi D, Pashchenko A, Satta R, Montesu MA, Amler E, Floris M, Maioli M. Hydrolat of Helichrysum italicum promotes tissue regeneration during wound healing. Physiol Res. 2023 Dec 31;72(6):809-818. doi: 10.33549/physiolres.935101. PMID: 38215066; PMCID: PMC10805257. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38215066/

(4) Serra D, Cruciani S, Garroni G, Sarais G, Kavak FF, Satta R, Montesu MA, Floris M, Ventura C, Maioli M. Effect of Helichrysum italicum in Promoting Collagen Deposition and Skin Regeneration in a New Dynamic Model of Skin Wound Healing. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Apr 26;25(9):4736. doi: 10.3390/ijms25094736. PMID: 38731954; PMCID: PMC11083432.

(5) Furlan V, Bren U. Helichrysum italicum: From Extraction, Distillation, and Encapsulation Techniques to Beneficial Health Effects. Foods. 2023 Feb 13;12(4):802. doi: 10.3390/foods12040802. PMID: 36832877; PMCID: PMC9957194.