Helichrysum oil is a type of essential oil that is derived from the helichrysum plant. Even though the helichrysum is often thought of as a singular plant, there are actually hundreds of different helichrysum species in existence. Frequently, this oil is extracted from the strawflower, which is also known as the "everlasting" flower.
While helichrysum oil has just begun to become popular within North America, this essential oil has actually been used for centuries throughout Europe. The oil that comes from the strawflower plant is used for medicinal purposes. Many believe that this oil can help to alleviate lung-related ailments such as asthma, though the oil is also used to reduce swelling caused by inflammation. Also, helichrysum oil may be used to reduce pain caused by migraines.
Even though the helichrysum species originated in North Africa along with certain Mediterranean countries, these flowers are mostly grown throughout Italy, Spain, and France today. In order to extract helichrysum oil from the strawflower plant, a steaming process is used. By putting helichrysum flower through a unique steam extraction process, the oil from the flowers can be bottled and packaged.
Unlike many other essential oils, helichrysum oil is not considered harmful. This oil can often be used by people who have sensitive skin, and some believe that the oil is beneficial for children suffering from inflammation or headaches. More recently, the oil from the helichrysum plant has been used to soothe people who are suffering from depression, since it is known to have particularly calming properties. In fact, this oil has often been compared to chamomile, since both are believed to have soothing effects.
While helichrysum oil is popular throughout the world, it is also a costly oil. This is the main reason why oil derived from helichrysum flowers is not used in abundance. Still, this type of oil is incredibly popular amongst athletes and bodybuilders who seek ways to reduce inflammation caused by strenuous physical activity.
To purchase helichrysum flower oil, search for the oil at a local health food store. Alternately, this oil may be found on the Internet, though it is important to purchase only pure oil. Some manufacturers produce oil that is labeled "helichrysum," but may, in fact, be mixed with other essential oils. In order to gain the full medicinal benefits of the helichrysum plant, it is crucial that pure oil be purchased in lieu of mixed oil.
