Perpetual, immortelle or helichrysum: medicinal properties and how to use it

What is perpetual or everlasting and what is it for?

The perpetual or evergreen yellow (Helichrysum stoechas)a perennial plant typical of the Mediterranean landscape, it is named for its ability to stay energetic once harvested. With its beautiful floral chapters, ornaments, paintings and centerpieces are often created that do not wither over time.

It grows in many different habitatsfrom beaches and maritime dunes to dry meadows and ditches strongly exposed to the sun.

Flowering tops are used for medicinal purposes.both of this species and of other similar ones. Its essential oil contains alpha-pinene and neryl acetate, flavonoids such as helicrysin, quercetol and kenferol, helipirone and arenol.

Is considered anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, antitussive, expectorant, febrifuge, antiseptic, diuretic, choleretic and vermifuge.

Medicinal properties of the perpetual or immortelle

Herbalists recommend perpetual as one of the best allies to face spring allergies, such as those caused by the pollen of certain plants (grasses, parietaria, poplars, cypresses, etc.). Perpetua stimulates the production of hydrocortisone in the adrenal glands, stopping the development of allergic processes. Facilitates the expulsion of phlegm and mucus, and prevents infection from spreading in the respiratory tract.It is also shown very effective in relieving other allergic symptoms, such as tearing, inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye and eyelids, coughing fits and frequent and explosive sneezing. It is also indicated in case of cold with cough, flu, bronchitis, tonsillitis, sinusitis, hay fever and mild asthmatic processes.It is also used to fight infections of the digestive systemin case of gastritis and gastroenteritis.It is also an effective cleansing and restorative remedy after liver disorderssuch as hepatitis or inflammation of the gallbladder. in external use perpetual is very useful to end eczema, fungus and warts, as well as to eliminate sores and mouth ulcers.

How to use the everlasting or perpetual

The perpetual occurs in dried plant for infusion or decoction, cough syrup, liquid extract and tincture. The decoction is used to apply in compresses, local baths, eye drops, mouthwashes and vapors.

To treat conjunctivitis

Boiled a spoonful of flowers per glass of water for 1 minute, let stand for 5 and filter. With a soaked gauze ten pressures are made in one eye and then, with another gauze, the same procedure is carried out in the other.

For allergies with lung congestion and cough

Internally, an effective herbal tea for this problem is the one that results from mixture of perpetua, thyme, chamomile and nettlein equal parts.

How to prepare it: Boil two tablespoons of the mixture per half liter of water for 1 minute. Let it rest for 10 minutes, strain and drink 2 or 3 cups a day hot.

To treat yeast infections and other fungal infections

The perpetua is combined with thyme and elderberry in quantities of 8 g per 750 ml of water.

How to prepare it: Boil the mixture for 1 minute and let it rest for another 10. It is enough to drink three cups a day while the infection persists.

Advisor: J.Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”