Nature continues to surprise us with its countless beauties and secrets. One of these beauties is the "Immortal Flower" or Helichrysum, which takes its name from its durability. Helichrysum species are known in Europe under the name "immortal, everlasting". The immortal flower symbolises longevity, resurrection, eternity and immortality (as the name means). The immortelle is one of the rare plants that retains its vivid colour and shape even after drying out.
During the flowering season, the yellow flowers shine in the summer sun and appear almost golden yellow in colour.
Why and how does this plant not die?
The immortelle is particularly widespread in the Mediterranean region. They usually bloom in shades of yellow, white and pink. These plants retain their colour and form for a long time after flowering. The best-known species of immortelle flowers include Helichrysum arenarium and Helichrysum italicum.
The secret behind the durability of immortelle flowers hides in their cell structure and the chemical components they contain. Thanks to their high levels of antioxidants and essential oils, these plants can remain intact for a long time. In particular, the chitin-like compounds in the stems, flavonoids, phenolic acids and other compounds in the tissues of the plants prevent cell damage by reducing oxidative stress.
Flavonoids: These compounds are responsible for colour formation in plants and also have strong antioxidant properties.
Phenolic Acids: These compounds strengthen the plant's defence mechanism and protect cell structures.
Essential Oils: Especially the species Helichrysum italicum contains essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Another interesting feature of immortelle flowers is that they retain their vivid colour even when dried. This feature has also popularised the use of flowers for decoration. The drying process is usually done as follows:
Harvesting: The flowers are picked when they are in full bloom.
Drying: The flowers are hung upside down and dried in an airy and dry place.
Storage: Dried flowers can be preserved for a long time by storing them away from moisture.
Immortelle flowers have not only aesthetic, but also medicinal and aromatherapy uses. Helichrysum italicum in particular is frequently used in skin care products. The oil of this plant promotes skin regeneration, heals wounds and reduces inflammation.
Skin Care: It is frequently used in anti-aging creams and serums.
Aromatherapy: It is preferred in aromatherapy due to its stress-reducing and relaxing effects.
Medical Use: It is used in various ointments and balms with its anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties.
1. Why Is the Immortelle Flower Called "Immortelle"?
The immortelle flower is one of the rare plants that retains its vibrant color and shape even after drying. This unique feature makes it appear as if it never withers. Special components in its cell structure and the high levels of antioxidants it contains allow the flower to remain unspoiled for a long time. That's why it's called the "immortal" or "everlasting" flower.
2. What Are the Medicinal Benefits of the Immortelle Flower?
This wonderful plant is frequently used in medical and aromatherapy fields. Especially in skincare products, because:
In aromatherapy, it's preferred for its stress-reducing and calming effects.
3. How to Grow and Care for the Immortelle Flower?
Growing the immortelle flower is quite easy and enjoyable:
By cultivating this hardy plant in your garden or pot, you can enjoy its beauty for a long time.
4. How Is the Immortelle Flower Used in Decoration?
Because they retain their vibrant colors even after drying, immortelle flowers are perfect for decoration:
If you want to add natural and lasting beauty to your home, immortelle flowers are a fantastic choice!
5. What Is the Cultural and Historical Significance of the Immortelle Flower?
The immortelle flower holds a special place in many cultures:
This cultural richness elevates the immortelle flower beyond just a plant, giving it deep meaning.
As a plant that deserves its name, the immortelle is just one of the wonders that nature offers us. Thanks to its cell structure and chemical components, this plant, which maintains its durability for a long time, provides many benefits both decorative and medicinal. This miracle of nature always manages to be eye-catching with its vibrant colours and long life.
