Immortalle Flower (Helichrysum italicum)

Mediterranean plants are a rich source of bioactive compounds that are important for human health. The Helichrysum (Miller's) genus belongs to the Asteraceae family and comprises more than a thousand taxa, many of which are found in the Mediterranean regions of Europe. The name of the genus Helichrysum (Miller's) is derived from the Greek words 'helios' (sun) and 'chryos' (gold) and is directly related to the typical bright yellow inflorescences. 
Helichrysum italicum (Immortelle) is a 30-70 cm high aromatic plant of the genus Helichrysum (Miller), native to the Mediterranean region, evergreen, with small yellow flowers that have a strong and persistent odour. Helichrysum italicum (Immortelle) is an important and enduring plant in the traditional medicine of Mediterranean countries due to its various beneficial biological effects. Its traditional use in the treatment of inflammatory and allergic conditions such as asthma and dermatitis has stimulated interest in Helichrysum italicum, also known as Immortelle. 
Immortelle has been found to contain numerous phytochemicals with diverse biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral and anti-HIV. Known therapeutic uses include wound healing, treatment of biliary and bladder disorders, and analgesic uses.

Helichrysum italicum extracts and essential oils contain a diverse range of chemical classes, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, acetophenones, tremetones, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and triterpenes. Helichrysum italicum extracts mainly contain non-volatile polyphenolic compounds, which have various beneficial biological effects. These include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticarcinogenic effects. They also have cytoprotective activity against normal cells and cytotoxic effects against cancer cells.
Essential oils of Helichrysum italicum are also used in aromatherapy, to heal wounds and to treat skin conditions such as bruises and sunburn. In addition, Helichrysum italicum has long been recognised for its therapeutic use due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. In the agri-food sector, its flowers can be used to season and flavour baked goods and soft drinks, and as a natural food additive or preservative because of its antibacterial properties. 
Helichrysum italicum extracts, mainly obtained from inflorescences, have great potential in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries due to their antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic properties.