What Impact Does Helichrysum Oil Have On Your Kidney Health?

The kidneys are one of the body's most crucial organs, filtering toxins from the blood before sending them to the bladder for elimination. Kidneys also concentrate urine and help protect the body's fluid balance, according to Kidney Research UK.

No known home remedy can reverse the damage if kidney failure occurs, and many supplements may further damage kidney health (per National Kidney Foundation). But some natural medicines and substances may help protect kidneys and prevent damage from occurring in the first place when used correctly, according to Miami Kidney Group.

Helichrysum is a flowering plant that grows wild in the Mediterranean and southern Europe. According to Healthline, helichrysum essential oil is derived from the stems and leaves of the plant. The golden-colored dried flowers are also used for health purposes, and the whole plant is used in traditional folk medicine in its native region. Helichrysum also works as an anti-inflammatory agent, according to Healthline.

So, what impact does helichrysum have on your kidney health?

Helichrysum essential oil and helichrysum extracts appear to potentially protect kidney health and may even improve kidney function in some cases.

A 2022 study in Pharmaceuticals suggests helichrysum might work to reduce inflammation and slow or even halt the spread of certain bacteria, including staph and Escherichia coli (E. coli), which can infect the kidneys. And, according to the Cleveland Clinic, 90% of kidney infections are caused by E. coli, making helichrysum essential oil potentially beneficial for resolving kidney infections.

A 2015 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology indicates that helichrysum may help reduce the formation and growth of kidney stones and can be beneficial for patients with recurrent stones.

Finally, a 2017 study in the Journal of Zhejiang University – SCIENCE B showed that helichrysum extract (HPE) reduced liver and kidney damage in rats after induced nephrotoxicity. The study found that a 100 milligram/kilogram HPE dose decreased elevated serum blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine and reduced liver and kidney levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the animals. The study showed that helichrysum extracts might prevent oxidative stress by inhibiting free radical generation and restoring antioxidant systems in the kidneys.

MBSF suggests diffusing and inhaling helichrysum essential oil as a safe way to get its benefits for kidney health. Add five to ten drops into a diffuser to release pure essential oil into the air. Take a few deep breaths to enjoy the scent, then breathe normally. Keep pets and children out of the room if they are sensitive to the fragrance. 

They also state that it may be used topically in the kidney area. Complementary Health Professionals suggest covering the area with a warm towel or blanket.

Helichrysum is available in over-the-counter creams for topical use. But if you want to make your own essential oil balm at home, Healthline provides a general recommendation of mixing 15 to 60 drops of whatever essential oil you are using with six tablespoons of carrier oil like sweet almond, grapeseed, jojoba, or unrefined coconut oil, depending on what concentration you want. MBSF suggests you can also mix a couple of drops of helichrysum essential oil with a small amount of carrier oil in your hand. How strong you make it is up to you, but you should test your skin's sensitivity to the oil by applying a drop to the inside of your wrist. Cover with a bandage and wait 24 hours to see if you get a reaction.

You should see your doctor immediately if you have kidney pain or experience any kidney disease symptoms.