Helichrysum italicum, commonly known as curry plant or immortelle, is native to the Mediterranean region. It is indigenous to countries around the Mediterranean Sea, including parts of southern Europe, such as Italy, France, Spain, Croatia, and Slovenia, where we source ours from.

The curry plant is a small, perennial shrub with aromatic silver-gray leaves and small, yellow flowers. It is known for its pleasant fragrance, which resembles the scent of curry, hence its common name "curry plant." However, it is important to note that the curry plant is not related to the spice curry used in Indian cuisine.

Immortelle has a unique and distinctive fragrance. It is often described as warm, honey-like, and slightly spicy, with floral and herbaceous undertones. The scent is rich, intense, and long-lasting, making it a valuable ingredient in perfumery.

Immortelle is a Middle note in our Floral family. Its scent adds depth, complexity, and warmth to fragrance compositions. It blends well with other aromatic ingredients, such as citrus, woods, resins, and spices.

The essential oil extracted from immortelle flowers contains a variety of aromatic compounds, including neryl acetate, alpha-pinene, and gamma-curcumene, which contribute to its unique scent. These compounds give immortelle its warm, sweet, and earthy aroma.

Immortelle is often associated with feelings of comfort, grounding, and emotional healing. It is believed to have calming and soothing effects, and its fragrance can evoke a sense of serenity and peace.

In perfumery, immortelle adds a warm and intriguing element to fragrances. Its distinct fragrance profile and its potential skincare benefits make it a valuable and versatile ingredient for perfumers and cosmetic formulators.

Corsican folklore has rich traditions and beliefs surrounding immortelle, also known as the "Immortal Flower" or "Everlasting Flower." In Corsican culture, immortelle holds a special place and is deeply intertwined with local myths, legends, and traditional practices. Here are some aspects of Corsican folklore related to immortelle:

According to Corsican folklore, the immortelle flower has a mythical origin. It is said that the flowers are the tears of the goddess Venus, shed during her search for her beloved Adonis. As the legend goes, Venus wept tears of sorrow, and where her tears fell on the ground, immortelle flowers bloomed.

Immortelle is considered a symbol of immortality in Corsican folklore. The flower's name reflects this belief, as it is thought to retain its beauty and color even after it has dried. Immortelle flowers are often used in Corsican funeral rites and are believed to offer protection and ensure the eternal rest of the departed.

In Corsican traditional medicine, immortelle is highly regarded for its healing properties. It is believed to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Corsicans have used immortelle-based remedies for various ailments, such as skin conditions, respiratory issues, and digestive disorders.

Corsicans have traditionally gathered and dried immortelle flowers for various purposes. The dried flowers are often used in making floral wreaths, corsages, and decorative arrangements. Immortelle flowers may also be placed in linen closets, drawers, or beds to impart a pleasant fragrance and repel moths.

Immortelle is celebrated during cultural festivals and events in Corsica. One such festival is the "Fête de l'Immortelle" (Festival of the Immortelle), held in the village of Murato. The festival showcases the beauty and significance of immortelle through floral displays, exhibitions, and traditional music and dances.

Corsican folklore has contributed to the cultural identity of the island, and the immortelle flower holds a special place in the hearts of Corsicans. Its mythical origins, association with immortality, and medicinal uses have made immortelle an integral part of Corsican traditions and beliefs.