While helichrysum has been a go-to in the traditional medicine cabinet for centuries, the essential oil distilled from Helichrysum italicum was not used widely in aromatherapy until the 1980’s. It is said that Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt is primarily responsible for this sea change, saying,

“The story of the essential oil of Helichrysum italicum is a perfect example of how a few individuals acting decisively can make a difference in the world. Essential oil catalogs prior to the early 1980’s do not list Helichrysum italicum. Today, helichrysum essential oil is offered on virtually every ambitious aromatherapy list.” Schanubelt (1999).

While still only approximately 69% of aromatherapists report using helichrysum in their practice (which is a small amount when compared to the 97% that report using lavender essential oil), the volume of Immortelle used is one of the highest when compared with other oils, at the third highest ranking according to a recent report. 

Helichrysum’s inclusion in aromatherapy is well-deserved. The aroma has been described as having a “strong psychological effect,” in that it is highly effective at grounding its user who may be feeling a bit too heady and detached. Helichrysum is also said to be clarifying and stimulating, perfect for activities that require such qualities like studying and working, as the renowned Valerie Wormwood describes Immortelle as being linked to increased performance.

 Also, in her book Subtle Aromatherapy, Patricia Davis indicates that helichrysum is especially adept at helping to activate the intuitive brain, “assisting in meditation, visualization, and any creative endeavor.” In addition, Helichrysum italicum is indicated in aromatherapy for use in treating anxiety and panic attacks, as the high levels of neryl acetate in this species’ oil lends a sedating effect. 

In addition to its astounding ability to remove physical blockages in the body such as old tissue knots, the di-ketones, specifically the italidones, are also adept at removing old emotional blocks: "Those (emotions) that are most indicated are enduring resentment, half-conscious anger, bitterness of spirit, and a stubbornly negative attitude," says Mojay’s Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit. It is thought that there is a direct connection between the nature of these ailments, as they both represent an old, lingering block to healing. Helichrysum is thought to work to stop confusion, emotional burnout, and difficulty in expressing grief, all barriers to experiencing relief from emotional pain. The suggestion is to massage Helichrysum italicum oil over the heart chakra to aid healing of old emotional wounds. In addition, the use of Immortelle essential oil in treating drug and alcohol addiction is thought to be worthwhile due to the release of emotional trauma associated with the negative thought patterns driving the behavior. 

Carrier oils are often used in conjunction with essential oils in order to aid their absorption into the skin and speed healing. This is especially true of helichrysum, which can actually be potentiated when mixed with certain carrier oils. Rosehip seed oil, which contains Vitamin A, is perhaps one of the most commonly used carrier oils in association with helichrysum. This combo is specifically directed for scar tissue as indicated by Dr. Kurt Schaubelt, who says, "The triple unsaturated fatty acids (of rosehip seed oil) strengthen the cell membranes and, combined with the regenerative qualities of Everlasting oil (Helichrysum), heal wounds with minimal or no scarring." Another carrier oil that pairs well with helichrysum is hazelnut oil, which on its own contains small amounts of the same healing properties of helichrysum, as well as being a natural astringent. Taken together, the two have an additive effect that promotes healing. Jojoba oil is another that is often used in conjunction with helichrysum.

Helichrysum is a worthy addition to many aromatherapuetic blends, as it mixes well with a wide variety of oils to produce synergistic effects. Helichrysum has been noted to blend well with bergamot, black pepper, chamomile, cedarwood, citrus oils, clary sage, clove bud, cypress, frankincense, geranium, juniper, lavender, lemon, myrrh, neroli, oakmoss, oregano, palmarosa, patchouli, rose, rosemary, sandalwood, sea buckthorn, tea tree, thyme, vetiver, and ylang ylang.