Definition of blue everlasting flower
Blue everlasting flower, also known under the name of Helichrysum italicum, is a famous mediterranean plant with small, yellow flowers. It is part of the Asteraceae family. In cosmetics, the blue everlasting flower is principally used under the form of essential oil or extract, liked for its exceptional therapeutic properties.
Actions and benefits of the blue everlasting flower
Property of the blue everlasting flower: antioxidant properties
The blue everlasting flower is rich in anti-oxidants, especially in flavonoids and acetophenones, which help neutralizing free radicals, thus reducing the oxydating damages and slowing down skin aging.
Property of the blue everlasting flower: anti-inflammatory effect
The components such as neryl acetate and italidiones found in the blue everlasting flower own powerful anti-inflammatory properties, helping in soothing irritations and skin redness.
Property of the blue everlasting flower: healing and regeneration
The blue everlasting flower favors healing and regeneration of skin tissues. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help to prevent infections and improve a quick healing of wounds and scars.
Property of the blue everlasting flower: hydration and soothing
It helps maintaining skin hydration and soothing dry and sensitive skins, thanks to its emmolient components which nourish and protect the skin barrier.
Property of the blue everlasting flower: reduction of spots and imperfections
The blue everlasting flower is known for its efficacy in reducing age spots and imperfections, thanks to its brightening and regenerating properties.
Clinical and scientific studies of blue everlasting flower
Several studies have highlighted the benefits of thhe blue everlasting flower. A study published in the journal "Antioxidants" proved the powerful antioxidant properties of the Helichrysum italicum essential oil, as well as its excellent compatibility with the cell lineage of human keratinocytes, which makes it an excellent candidate for the development of cosmetic products.
Sourcing of blue everlasting flower
The blue everlasting flower is mainly cultivated in mediterranean areas, particularly in Corsica, Italy and Croatia. It thrives in arid soils and warm and sunny weathers. The flower harvest is generally made by hand, and the essential oil is extracted by steam distillaton to preserve it active properties.
Anecdotes on blue everlasting flower
The name of the blue everlasting flower comes from the longevity of these flowers, which never wilt, even after being picked, hence the word "everlasting". It is often used in traditional mediterranean medical practices for their healing properties. An interesting anecdote is that Greek warrior from Antiquity were using blue everlasting flower essential oil to heal their wounds after battles, exploiting their powerful healing abilities.
The blue everlasting flowers in our products
In the Laboratoires SILKBIOTIC, we integrate the blue everlasting flower in our Hydra-Protect Gel Cream, thanks to its exceptional properties of skin regeneration and protection. It is suitable to all types of skins, even the most sensitive ones. The blue everlasting flower is a key ingredient in our formulaations to help reducing the signs of age, soothe irritations and improve the skin global health.
Sources :
- Jakupović L, et al. Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin-Based Helichrysum italicum Extracts: Antioxidant and Cosmeceutical Activity and Biocompatibility. Antioxidants (2023).
- Faucon, M., & Canac, P., Traité d'Aromathérapie scientifique et médicale, les huiles essentielles, Paris: Éd. Sang de la Terre (2018).