Jun 27 2008
Helichrysum Species
There are many species of Helichrysum that are used to distill essential oils. Each Helichrysum species will vary significantly in its chemistry, aroma and therapeutic properties. I have discovered a deep appreciation for all the species of Helichrysum I have used over the last few years and want to share this with you.
I have four favorites. Helichrysum italicum, Helichrysum odoratissimum, Helichrysum bracteiferum and Helichrysum gymnocephalum. After we tested these 4 oils with GC/MS we knew exactly what chemical components were in the oils, and we are able to more deeply understand the therapeutic properties of each oil. If you are interested you can see the GC/MS reports on Aromatics International, just go to the oil page and there is a link.
I love understanding the properties of essential oils through looking at the chemistry. It just makes sense to my mind! Here is some information about the four species of Helichrysum we sell at Aromatics International. If the chemical names are not familiar to you, just keep reading, I explain their therapeutic properties as I write.
1. From Corsica we have Helichrysum italicum. There is a component in this oil called y-curcumene. This component adds a significant cell rejuvenation and tissue healing component to this oil. The nerol content suggests adding this oil to antifungal blends, as it will have both a direct antifungal action and a healing effect on the fungus infected skin. This nerol content is unique to the Corsican Helichrysum. The ketones present are also known to contribute to the exceptional wound healing effect of Corsican Helichrysum.
Considering the high percentage of neryl acetate, we are given an oil with a profound antispasmodic effect. This differentiates the Corsican Helichrysum from any of the others. We use this Corsican Helichrysum for muscle spasms, irritable bowl syndrome, spastic coughing, and for painful tightness anywhere in the body! Neryl acetate is rarely found in such a high percentage in any other essential oil. This Helichrysum has the aroma of honey, with a rich, penetrating, slightly fruity and herbaceous background.
2. From South Africa we have Helichrysum odoratissimum. This oil has a nice balance between the pinenes and 1,8 cineole- giving us a powerful respiratory mucolytic, and antispasmodic oil, and is great combined with Helichrysum bracteiferum. The combination of the b-caryophellene and the 1,8 cineole offers an excellent anti-inflammatory, analgesic action. This oil is especially useful for the inflammation that can accompany mucus congestion in the head, sinuses and lungs. Sinus headaches with a cold or flu will respond well to Helichrysum odoratissimum.. The potential of this Helichrysum combined with H. bracteiferum and H. gymnocephalum for complex diseases of the immune system is clear and has been used successfully with infections, severe allergies and inflammatory conditions. The aroma is herbaceous, earthy, and has a slight pine background.
3. From Madagascar we have Helichrysum bracteiferum. Helichrysum bracteiferum is characterized by its approximately equal amounts of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and oxides. There is a unique presence of humulene, which offers the potential to support our health when it comes to immune system issues. The presence of the caryophyllene gives us an anti-inflammatory effect that is pronounced. The pinenes that are present offer their respiratory value. The 1.8 cineole, is very significant for all allergies, congestion, colds and flu.
Helichrysum bracteiferum is unique and is known more for healing infections, getting rid of headaches, reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system and less specifically for wound healing. The aroma is similar to the Helichrysum odoratissimum, being herbaceous and earthy, with a slight pine background.
4. From Madagascar and S. Africa we have Helichrysum gymnocephalum. The highest content of 1,8 cineole in any of these species is what stands out, and what provides the deep healing for the respiratory system. Combined with the analgesic and anti-infectious properties of the para-cymene we have an oil that significantly reduces pain, is excellent for healing many types of infections, reduces tension throughout the body (especially the upper body), and is known to be healing for the respiratory system. This is a great oil to use during a cold or flu. Given the chemistry of this oil we get a unique Helichrysum used more for congestion, as an analgesic, for infections and headaches, and less for wound healing. The aroma is strong, fresh, and penetrating, a bit like Eucalyptus.
Amazing to consider all the healing possibilities from this tiny little flower! What a gift from nature.
