Flora - Helichrysum

Helichrysum is a plant that clasps more then 600 sorts and has spread out throughout the world. The plant's name comes from the Greek word „helios" - sun and „chrisos" - gold. Around 25 sorts derive from the Mediterranean, and the most significant is Helichrysum italicum. The evergreen perennial bush grows up to 50 to 60 cm, miniature straw-yellow flowers are clustered in rotund blossom, and its leaves are gentle and oblong. This endemic sort of aromatic fragrance succeeds in rocky and sandy lands on a sea level above 2.000 meters. In Herzegovina, for ages it is known for its medicinal purposes, but only in local areas. The first larger plantations have formed in the past 3 – 4 years when an increased demand for helichrysum oil appeared on the international market. Essential Helichrysum oil contains special features and may be used in various manners for improving one's health and for disease prevention. Because of its beneficial effect on the skin and its regenerating capabilities it is used in natural cosmetics products. The essential oil is exceptionally respected in aromatherapy, and for acquiring a liter of oil, it is necessary to distill approximately 1 ton of blossomed helichrysum flower heads. (Željka Šaravanja)