Xerochrysum bracteatum ~ Strawflower , Everlasting ~ Health Benefits and Uses
The health benefits of Helichrysum Essential Oil can be attributed to its properties as an antispasmodic, anticoagulant, antiallergenic, antimicrobial, antihaematoma, antiphlogistic, nervine, antiinflammatory, antitussive, cicatrisant, expectorant, febrifuge, anti septic, cholagogue, emollient, mucolytic, fungicidal, hepatic, diuretic, splenic and cytophylactic substance.
Helichrysum, the flower that contributes to “Everlasting” and “Immortal” Essential Oil, and known by the names Helichrysum Angustifolium and Helichrysum Italicum, is an European herb native to France, Italy and a few neighboring countries.
MEDICINAL APPROACH & PROPERTIES
The essential oil shows considerable infraspecific variation; its main components are monoterpene hydrocarbons (pinene, camphene, myrcene, and limonene) and monoterpene-derived alcohols (linalool, teripinene-4-ol, nerol, geraniol, also their acetates);
Further important aroma components are nonterpeoid acylic beta-ketones. It sounds so technical that it’s confusing but they are important elements and they need to be mentioned.
So many people are beginning to appreciate the healing elements of this plant and aroma therapists world wide recognize the power of this plant, heres a link to a super piece all about our friend Helichrysum Italicum, so get reading folks.
Scroll dow now below and discover what helichrysum can do for you if you have a skin issue but not only : In fact it is also thought to be a strong chelator, supporting liver function and potentially drawing heavy metals and toxins out of the body. It is noted as one of, if not THE, most effective detoxification supporting essential oils by Battaglia in ‘The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy’. A strong dilution can be used (coconut oil, for example) and massaged twice per day into the feet. The reflex points of the feet corresponding to the liver may be of greatest help in this process.
Helichrysum essential oil therapeutic properties: READ IN FULL HERE ~
http://www.helichrysum-italicum.com/properties.html
Helichrysum bracteatum, Strawflower; Everlasting
An intense rich aroma with a herbaceous note. Among its properties are anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antitussive, astringent, diuretic, expectorant, fungicidal and cicatrisant.
The French used this oil primarily as an anti-inflammatory to regulate cholesterol, stimulate the cells of the liver, and as an antispasmodic. This particular variety has powerful antibruise properties. It’s ideal to use in lymphatic drainage massage, acts as a stimulant for the liver, gall bladder, kidneys and spleen and the organs responsible for detoxifying the body.
Italidone, one of its chemical components, has been found to have strong mucous thinning, expectorant and cicatrisant properties. It is a rejuvenating oil which promotes cell growth, helping to rebuild tissues. Clears the body of candida apparently, which often thrives when vitality is low. Blend with rosehip seed oil for scar formula or with lemon and geranium for kick-smoking blend. Assists in healing scars, acne, dermatitis, boils and abscesses.
http://medicalfunnyhoney.com/helichrysum
Plant Profile: The Strawflower
Scientific name: xerochrysum bracteatum (previously helichrysum bracteatum)
Other names: Everlasting, Paper Daisy, Golden Everlasting
The Strawflower, a flowering plant native to Australia, produces showy flowers with large dark green leaves. Plants can grow to be 3-4 feet tall, depending on the variety. The flower is also known as “paper daisy” for its papery texture. Just like the daisy, the center is made up of a cluster of tiny individual flowers. The “petals” surrounding the cluster are actually bracts. The plant will flower from summer to fall. The daisy-like flowers come in a wide range of colours, including white, yellow, pink and red.
Strawflowers are great additions to the garden, adding colour and texture to the landscape and will attract butterflies. Plant them in masses for the best effect. The taller varieties would be ideal as borders in a garden bed or rock garden. Gardeners love them because they are easy to grow, will tolerate heat and drought and can adapt to any soil condition. They can be grown as annuals, perennials, or shrubs. They also do well in containers.
Strawflowers don’t need much maintenance, but the plant would benefit from regular light pruning to encourage branching and increased blooms.
Strawflowers, especially the sturdier and long-stem varieties, are commonly used in the cut flower industry. Cut flowers can last between 2-3 weeks! Not only do they make great cut flowers, they are often used in dried floral arrangements because they are everlasting. When cut young and dried, the flowers and stems will retain their colour for a long time.
[growerdirect.com/plant-profile-the-strawflower]
The photo here reminded me of my mother, she always grew Everlasting flowers. I had no idea of their properties though. Ta.
August 10, 2014 at 8:17 pm
thank you 🙂 i had no idea either till i was looking through aster family and found these. these look very hardy as well, i plan on having some next season
August 10, 2014 at 11:14 pm
I think I do too now. I always considered them “old ladies flowers” when I was a kid….here I go at 55 thinking of having them 🙂 Now I am just thinking maybe we just appreciate better things as we age 🙂
August 11, 2014 at 12:07 am
🙂 i think so too
August 11, 2014 at 12:13 am
🙂
August 11, 2014 at 12:15 am