10 Helichrysum petiolare Seeds - Kooigoed, Everlasting, Imphepho Indigenous Medicinal Shrub Seeds

Helichrysum petiolare Seeds

 Kooigoed, Everlasting, Imphepho

Helichrysum petiolare is one of the best known and the most commonly used members of the Helichrysum genus which consists of about 245 species and is found throughout South Africa. Helichrysum petiolare is a soft, vigorous shrub, which grows 0.5m - 1m x 1m. The dense, aromatic foliage consists of roundish leaves which are covered with silver-grey hairs. Tiny creamy-white flowers make up abundant flower heads on long stalks which add to the decorative effect of this plant in midsummer. The name Helichrysum is derived from the Greek (h)elios for sun and chrysos for gold, although not all species have golden flowers; petiolare refers to long leaf stalks. Ailments such as coughs, colds and infections are treated with this popu medicinal plant. The leaves are used by Rastafarians to make an infusion to treat asthma, chest problems and high blood pressure. The smoke of the burning leaves is inhaled as a pain reliever. The leaves are also widely used on wounds to prevent infection. The Khoikhoi used the leaves and flowers as bedding; campers still do the same today. Burning a mixture of Helichrysum and Artemisia afra leaves makes a pleasant insect repellent. It is very effective at keeping flies and mosquitoes away.