Everlasting (Helichrysum angustifolium) is a member of the daisy family. It is native throughout the Mediterranean but is mainly cultivated in France and Spain. The plant can reach over 60cm in height and in summer it is covered in clusters of bright yellow flowers. The flowers retain their colour after picking and are often used in dried flower arrangements or pot pourri, hence their name ‘Everlasting’ or ‘Immortal’. The plant is also known as St John’s Herb or the curry plant, because of its pungent smelling leaves.
The name Helichrysum is derived from the Greek words ‘helios’, for sun, and ‘chrysos’, meaning golden, which refer to the plants bright yellow flowers. The ancient Greeks used the plant for its wound healing properties and it has also traditionally been used for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, regenerative and anti-allergic effects. Along with Frankincense, Myrrh, Spikenard, and Rose, Helichrysum is viewed as one of the world’s most valuable, ancient healing substances.
Everlasting Absolute is distilled from the plant’s flowers. It has a sharp, intense, fruity-rosy aroma and is often used as a fixative in perfumes.
