Organic Immortelle Essential Oil - The Balkans

Description

Immortelle is a small, highly aromatic plant common in the Mediterranean region and southern Europe. It grows in France, especially Corsica, in Italy, where it was first described and which gave it its name, and in Croatia. In Spain, it is also found in isolated locations, mainly along the Mediterranean coast and in Andalusia. It usually flowers from May to June, although it may flower throughout the year depending on the climate.

Its flowers remain on the plant for a long time and stay highly aromatic even after cutting, which explains its common name. Its botanical name, “Helichrysum”, means golden sun in Greek.

Immortelle was already known in Greco-Roman times and was one of the attributes of the god Apollo. This sun god of Greek mythology crowned his head with immortelle flowers to symbolise his immortality.
According to accounts of the Odyssey, the beautiful Nausicaa, who captivated Odysseus, preserved her beauty with an oil prepared from immortelle. Interestingly, the plant and its essential oil are now highly valued ingredients in anti-ageing cosmetics.
According to the writings of Theophrastus, Pliny and Dioscorides, the plant brought glory and renown.
In Corsica, where it grows abundantly, immortelle was regarded more as an invasive plant. Although islanders knew it and used it therapeutically, it was not distilled. Essential oil extraction began just over 20 years ago, without a clear idea of its eventual uses. It unexpectedly became so successful that production could not keep pace with demand. This led to cultivation in other regions, particularly the Balkans.
It is claimed, for obvious commercial reasons, that immortelle from other places produces the same essential oil with the same therapeutic properties. In fact, this is not the case. It is very important to ensure that the essential oil purchased meets the required specifications. Its very specific, unique biochemical composition gives it its distinctive therapeutic properties.

The aroma of immortelle essential oil often recalls curry. However, taking time to smell it attentively reveals many nuances and considerable complexity. It is difficult to describe, but undoubtedly offers a rich experience.

Appearance: Clear liquid, pale yellowish-green to orange

Solubility: Soluble in alcohol and oils

Precautions

Do not use during pregnancy or on children under 6 years of age unless under professional supervision. People taking anticoagulants should avoid prolonged use; consult a professional.

Taxonomy

Botanical name: Helichrysum italicum ssp. italicum - Family: Asteraceae - Genus: Helichrysum