Helichrysum essential oil—also known as Immortelle or Helichrysum italicum—is highly regarded in aromatherapy for its gentle yet powerful therapeutic properties.

Considered by many practitioners as the #1 healing oil in aromatherapy, it is prized for its capacity to soothe, rejuvenate, and support emotional balance.

Botanical Profile

• Botanical/Latin Name: Helichrysum italicum (also referred to as Helichrysum angustifolium)

• Plant Part Distilled: Flowers

• Distillation Method: Steam distilled

• Origin: Corsica

• Aroma Profile: Sweet, balsamic, warm, radiant, fresh, floral, and slightly herbaceous

• Chemical Families: Sesquiterpenes, Esters, Ketones

• FDA Status: GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe)

Traditional Use & Plant Wisdom

Helichrysum, commonly known as Immortelle, is one of the most precious and revered essential oils in aromatherapy. The name “Immortelle,” meaning “everlasting,” reflects its traditional association with healing, regeneration, and longevity.

Used by Mediterranean cultures for centuries, Helichrysum has been applied topically for skin regeneration, wound care, and to soothe bruising and inflammation. Today, it's recognized as a sacred and gentle oil that supports both physical and emotional healing.

Aromatic & Therapeutic Properties

The finest distillations of Helichrysum are produced in the Mediterranean climate of Corsica, where the oil’s complex profile fully matures. Its aroma is intensely sweet and honey-like, yet light and delicate, reflecting the gentle nature of this revered plant.

Helichrysum oil is also considered by many professional massage therapists to be the #1 massage oil in aromatherapy for calming inflamed tissue and rejuvenating skin. Its primary chemical components—sesquiterpenes and ketones—give it a unique ability to soothe, restore, and repair.

Primary therapeutic benefits include:

• Deeply calming and soothing to the nervous system

• Rejuvenating and cleansing to skin tissue

• Promotes a clear, radiant complexion

• Supports recovery from muscle stiffness and tension

• Eases mental, physical, and emotional stress

Helichrysum essential oil is renowned for its multifaceted therapeutic properties:

• Wound Healing: A systematic review highlighted Helichrysum italicum's efficacy in wound healing, attributing its benefits to anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities . A 2022 study reviewed multiple in vitro and in vivo studies, confirming Helichrysum italicum's role in accelerating wound healing through its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects .

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The oil's rich composition of sesquiterpenes and ketones contributes to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for soothing inflamed tissues . Research has demonstrated the oil's capacity to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting its traditional use in treating various inflammatory conditions .

• Antioxidant Properties: Helichrysum essential oil exhibits significant antioxidant activity, which helps in protecting the skin from oxidative stress and promoting tissue regeneration .

• Skin Regeneration: Its ability to stimulate collagen production aids in skin repair, reducing the appearance of scars and promoting a clear complexion .A 2024 study developed a topical ointment containing Helichrysum italicum essential oil, which showed enhanced wound healing in diabetic rats by alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress

Aroma & Blending Suggestions

Helichrysum has a complex, sweet, honey-like aroma with warm and herbaceous undertones. It is often described as radiant and uplifting.

Helichrysum’s high sesquiterpene content plays a major role in its soothing effects. These naturally occurring compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory and cell-regenerating properties. (To learn more about sesquiterpenes and other natural chemical components in essential oils, use the search feature on our store to look up the term “sesquiterpene” in the PurePlant Essentials blog).

Uses & Applications

Helichrysum is frequently added to massage oils and therapeutic blends for its ability to calm inflamed tissues and support deep tissue rejuvenation. It is particularly valuable for skin renewal, as well as for aiding the healing of bruises, tension, and muscular discomfort.

Due to its potency and cost, Helichrysum is often used sparingly in blends—a little goes a long way. Its subtle yet persistent energy makes it a favorite in both physical and emotional healing formulas.

Emotional & Subtle Support

On an energetic level, Helichrysum is considered a sacred and nurturing oil, often recommended for times of emotional trauma, grief, or transition. It is known to soften hardened states—both physical and emotional—encouraging flow, healing, and release.

Aroma & Blending Suggestions

Helichrysum's complex aroma blends well with many different oils. Here are a few favorites:

• Floral Oils: Lavender, Rose, Geranium

• Wood Oils: Cedarwood , Vetiver

• Resinous Oils: Frankincense, Myrrh

• Citrus Oils: Red Mandarin

• Herbaceous Oils: Chamomile, Spikenard

🌿 Skin Soothing Serum (for scars, blemishes, and rejuvenation)

Use: Daily spot treatment or night serum for skin repair

Ingredients:

• 1 oz (30 ml) fractionated coconut oil, jojoba or rosehip seed oil (carrier)

• 3 drops Helichrysum italicum

• 2 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

• 2 drops Frankincense (Boswellia frereana)

Directions:
Blend oils in a dark glass bottle. Apply 1–2 drops to affected areas after cleansing, preferably at night.

🕊  Anti-Stress Inhaler for Emotional Support

Use: Emotional reset for grief, overwhelm, or trauma

Ingredients:

• 5 drops Helichrysum italicum

• 4 drops Ylang Ylang III

• 3 drops Sweet Orange

• Aromatherapy inhaler stick (or cotton pad in a jar)

Directions:
Add essential oils to the cotton wick inside an inhaler. Use as needed during emotional stress. Inhale deeply.

💪 Muscle Recovery Massage Oil

Use: Post-workout recovery or massage for aches and stiffness

Ingredients:

• 2 oz (60 ml) fractionated coconut oil or sweet almond oil

• 4 drops Helichrysum italicum

• 3 drops Chamomile (Roman or German)

• 3 drops Sweet Marjoram (Origanum majorana)

Directions:
Blend and massage gently into affected muscles. Avoid broken skin. Use within 3–6 months.

⛑ First Aid Bruise & Bump Blend

Use: Support healing of minor bumps and bruises

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp (5 ml) coconut oil

• 1 drop Helichrysum italicum

• 1 drop Lavender

Directions:
Mix and dab onto affected area 2–3x daily for a few days. Great for kids' bumps—always patch test first.

Safety & Application

• Dilution: Due to its potency, it's recommended to dilute Helichrysum essential oil to a maximum of 0.5% for topical applications.

• Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before widespread use to ensure no allergic reactions.

• Consultation: Consult with a healthcare professional before using if pregnant, nursing, or under medical supervision.

Summary

Helichrysum essential oil stands out as a powerful ally in both physical and emotional healing. Its scientifically backed properties make it a valuable addition to any holistic wellness practice.

You can find both the certified organic pure Helichrysum essential oil and a 10% dilution in coconut oil available in the PurePlant Essentials store.

Have you personally used Helichrysum essential oil?
We’d love to hear your story. Share how you used it and what benefits you experienced in the comments below. Your experience may inspire and support others on their healing journey.