If you are familiar with the Andalucian countryside you have probably spotted some small dry-looking bright yellow flowers. These are helichrysums and surprisingly, have quite impressive benefits.
Helichrysum, also known as the curry plant or immortelle plant, has many uses, such as essential oils in skincare and aromatherapy, traditional herbal medicine and as ornamental flowers as they keep their bright yellow colour even dried.
Helichrysums are often used in creams and oils to combat mild blemishes or irritated skin. The flower also has anti-inflammatory properties and when diluted into essential oils it is often used during relaxation and aromatherapy. It’s known to be rich in antioxidants, helping combat cell stress as well as being traditionally used to ease coughs, colds and help with digestion.
If you are interested in making an easy helichrysum tea follow this recipe:
- Use 1–2 teaspoons dried flowers/leaves
- Add hot water
- Steep 5–10 minutes
- Strain and drink
It will be a mix of herbal, bitter and aromatic flavours.
If you fancy yourself a chemist, here is a safe way to mix this unusual flower into essential oils. People see benefits in using this for bruising and dry skin as well as relaxation massage after exercises. (this is a rough recipe, use with caution and if in doubt, consult a professional)
- Dilute in a carrier oil (jojoba, almond, olive oil)
- Typical dilution: 1–2 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil
- Patch test first
- Avoid eyes and broken skin
- Keep away from pets and children
You will often find traces of helichrysum in anti-aging creams, after-sun lotions and sensitive skin creams.
As always, ease on the side of caution, just because it is natural it doesn’t mean it’s a fit for you. Take precaution in these circumstances: essential oil should usually be diluted before applying to skin, avoid ingesting concentrated oils unless guided by a qualified professional and very importantly, herbal remedies can interact with medications or allergies.
Overall, our Linda always brings us the best of nature and how we can make the most of it- but I must admit; those dry flowers in the Mediterranean scrub, watch us chat about this topic on the show:
