Why Helichrysum Italicum is so rare & special.

There are over 500 different species of Helichrysum (Asteraceae) this daisy type flower.
Some of which, like the Helichrysum Italicum, are unique to certain parts of the globe. These are mainly used in flower arranging. Helychisum Italicum from Corsica and the Mediterranean basin is rare and unique.

It is so special because it treats cosmetic as well as medical problems. It can treat age spots to sports injuries. It is known for its anti bacterial qualities and its tissue healing properties, tests have been carried out at the hospital in Grasse, France where they used Helichrysum Italium to close skin tissue, the result has been absolutely amazing as a very quick heal and with very little scarring, no redness and no infections. It multiplies the natural collagen count present in our skin cells and diminishes wrinkles and creases with a high percentage of success. It is also combined with other oils and used to treat acne, there are different remedies based on the Helichrysum Italicum on the remedies page. There you will see the spectrum of aliments that can be treated with this oil. It acts on the skin, on muscles and joints and on the nervous system; there are not many essential oils with this vast healing power. In fact I now call Helichrysum Italicum “liquid gold”, as it is so precious.

Why is it rare?

Because of its chemical composition, which I will explain a little later on, and this factor makes it unique. But also the soil composition and climate contribute enormously to its chemical composition. In fact the climate factor and the soil composition can modify the Neryl Acetate % which can cause the overall price to rise or to drop. As confirmed to me on one of my “many questioning calls” to the different distillers the harvesting of Corsican Helichysum Italicum only takes place in June as the level of Neryl Acetate is at its peak then and only then. Could this explain why the Balkans have only 6 to 8% Neryl Acetate and they harvest twice a year!!
Helichrysum Italicum is found in the region of Sartene situated in the valley of Ortolo which is full of history and dotted with Menhirs, Dolmens and Grottos which sheltered man during the Megalithic era. At the present time this region harbours numerous agricultural and poly cultural exploitations, working the land in an ecologic manner.

Helichrysum Italicum can be found all over the island its fragrant aroma contributes to the smells of the Maquis this sweet scented honey fragrance mingles with Rosemary, Ciste, Pin Larrico and other odours making the perfume of the Maquis unique to Corsica. A well known comment from Napoleon who said he could “smell his island before sighting it». And indeed I can vouch for that, there have been times when arriving by ferry you can catch a whiff of “something” which makes you feel happy, sounds a bit corny but should you have the occasion to go to Corsica, go by ferry from the mainland during the middle to late June and beginning of July. It certainly worth it. From the valley of Ortolo to the heights of Balgna the Helichrysum Italicum is present; it’s discreet but a very distinct floral perfume with a hint of honey hidden behind the first inhalation of its smell. The plant has adapted to the intense heat and light which is dominant in the month of June which contributes to its essential oil extract.
The subtle olfactory smell produced by Helichrysum Italicum connects us to the Earth and lets our minds drift into conciliate with inner emotions and ourselves by odour.

As to why Helichrysum Italicum and not another is is quite simply the best of essential oils. It is a multi functional healing oil of unequalled quality.