EVERLASTING FLOWER
Helichrysum arenarium
Common name: Everlasting Flower
Latin name: Helichrysum arenarium
Other names: Dwarf Everlast, Imortelle
Family: Asteraceae
Habitat: The plant is native to temperate regions of Europe and Asia. It grows on sandy grasslands, heathlands and in pine forests.
Description: Everlasting Flower is an annual plant. It usually grows up to 0, 3 meters in height. It has flat leaves, hairy on both sides. The lower leaves are elliptical and the upper ones are linear. Flowers are 3 to 4 mm wide, bright yellow in color. The herb flowers in August.
Parts used: Whole plant
Useful components: Alcohol, fatty acids, glycosides, minerals, tannins, vitamins, volatile oil.
Medicinal use: The plant is considered to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, cholagogic, diuretic and spasmolytic properties. An infusion made usually from flowers is used in treatment of gall bladder disorder. It can also be very helpful as a diuretic in cases of cistitis and rheumatism. Some studies suggest that it can also significantly lower cholesterol levels.
Safety: Some herbs could interact with certain medications. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.