IMMORTELLE INFUSED OIL (MACERATE)

Helichrysum italicum – olive oil infusion

 Traditional use (folk tradition)

In Mediterranean and Istrian folk tradition, immortelle infused oil was traditionally used:

• for dry, sensitive, and flaky skin (traditional context only),

• after sun exposure and in cases of minor skin discomfort,

• for the care of stretching skin, including during pregnancy,

• as part of care routines for uneven or stressed skin,

• after exposure to wind, sun, or cold,

• as an ingredient in balms for sensitive and mature skin,

• for skin that required long-term, gentle care.

 Where and how it is used

• applied directly to the skin (external use only),

• as a base for balms, salves, and creams,

• for daily face and body care,

• after sun exposure or environmental stress.

 Detailed description

Immortelle infused oil is produced through prolonged maceration of immortelle flowers in olive oil, traditionally exposed to sunlight during the extraction period. Olive oil acts as a natural carrier, drawing out lipophilic plant components.

In traditional herbal practices, immortelle was considered one of the key plants for skin care. The oil infusion allowed gentle, long-term use, especially in cases where essential oils were considered too strong.

 Warnings

• for external use only

• store in a cool, dark place

• perform a patch test before use on sensitive skin

 Sources

Hoffmann, D. – Medical Herbalism
ESCOP Monographs
Mediterranean herbal traditions