Helichrysum (also known as Immortelle) is one of the most expensive essential oil on the market ( +/- 20eur for 5ml)
But why is this considered as a precious oil ?

The production worldwide is quite limited and only specific areas in the world are able to produce great Helichrysum.

The growing of the plant is really slow and of the percentage of the quantity of plants to be used and the return of essential oils is really low. Each drop of the Helichrysum essential oil, is carefully cherished.
So, that’s why it’s a precious essential oil.

Origin

The gender “Helichrysum“ has more than 500 different species around the world.
But the most common and valuable is the “Helichrysum italicum”
This one is produced in Corsica, Spain, Portugal, and Balkans.
Check out 2 Helichrysum species

Is Helichrysum from Corsica the best and unique one?

Even if that does not please the critics, that Corsica Helichrysum italicum is not the unique and the best Helichrysum italicum.

Certainly, there is a historical, ancestral know-how, and a big production but nowadays other countries arrive at the quality of Corsica.

Herbalists researchers have shown that a base of the same variety (ex: lavender) grown on other places (with same mixed climate and growing conditions) will produce exactly the same quality of essential oil with the same proportion of components.

Of course, ensuring quality for a long term might need more work and pay attention to it. But in any case, the essential oil won’t lose its main qualities.

Why is the Helichrysum from Corsica always highlighted?

There are many reasons, but probably by protectionism and trying to keep a tight and exclusive market and because Corsica only produce a Helichrysum with the species « Italicum » (which is very noble).
And of course thanks to a strong marketing performed for many years.

But I want to clarify, the Corsica essential oil is still a very good quality and small or large producers put all their love to produce a truly noble product.

What makes the difference between the plants is the specie.
The Helichrysum italicum is THE reference to keep in mind!

Check out 2 Helichrysum species

So yes, the Helichrysum really is a great oil used sparingly even if the price seems expensive.
Try it, and you will love it!

Do not forget also to try the Helichrysum italicum floral water (“Eau florale”) for a more regular basis usage.  It contains exactly the same property of essential oil but in more delicate quantities (1/1000) and for a really light price.