Evidence supporting the use of: Immortelle
For the health condition: Scratches and Abrasions
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Immortelle (Helichrysum italicum), also known as everlasting or curry plant, has a long-standing history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in Mediterranean regions. Historically, preparations of Immortelle, especially its essential oil or topical infusions, have been applied to minor wounds, scratches, and abrasions. Folk medicine attributes its value to purported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-regenerative properties. The traditional rationale is based on observations that Immortelle preparations may soothe the skin and promote healing of superficial injuries.
From a scientific perspective, there is some laboratory evidence suggesting Helichrysum essential oil possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, attributed to compounds such as neryl acetate, italidione, and alpha-pinene. A few in vitro studies have shown inhibition of certain bacteria and possible stimulation of wound healing processes. However, robust clinical trials in humans for the treatment of scratches and abrasions are lacking. The majority of evidence remains anecdotal or preliminary, and the use is not endorsed by mainstream medicine.
In summary, the use of Immortelle for scratches and abrasions is primarily justified by traditional use, with limited low-quality scientific support. The evidence base is weak (rated 2/5), relying on historical use and some laboratory studies, but lacking high-quality human clinical trials.
Other ingredients used for Scratches and Abrasions
aloe verabayberry
beeswax
bisabolol
black walnut
chamomile
turmeric
dyer’s woad root
iodine
Japanese sophora
lauric acid
mucin
protease
slippery elm bark
vitamin C
zinc
parthenium
chickweed
paederia foetida
lilac
yarrow
moss
oriental arborvitae
tartarian aster
camphor oil
cleavers
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
arnica
Asclepias cordifolia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Anserina
Anemone
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Acemannan
Abuta
Alkanna
Bee Propolis
Babchi
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Black spruce
Blackthorn
Bleeding Heart
Bridges' Penstemon
Black-Eyed Susan
Blackbrush
Brazillian peppertree
Bisabolene
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Begonia fimbristipula
Black Poplar
Bletilla
Barbary matrimony vine
Bush Monkey Flower
Babassu
Black root
Bittersweet
Calochortus
Comfrey
Candleberry
Calotropis gigantea
Cattail
Columbine
Cornflower
Common Thatching grass
Common Zinnia
Cynoglossum grande
Cedar
Campylandra fimbriata
Campsiandra angustifolia
Cranesbill
Chinese Thoroughwax
Carrapichinho
Cedrus libani
Ceanothus integerrimus
Cyanthillium cinereum
Castile Soap
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Copaiba Oil
Calyptridium umbellatum
Dragon's Blood
Devil's Club
Dwarf Nettle
Davilla rugosa
Deerbrush
Erigeron
Elephant Vine
European hazel
English Elm
Emu Oil
Elkweed
Eupatorium
Elemi
Oak
Polyvinyl alcohol
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Other health conditions supported by Immortelle
AbrasionsAbscesses
Acne
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Inflammation
Injuries
Rashes and Hives
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (infections)
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores