Ethnobotanical uses of Helichrysum species: A review of traditional medicinal practices

Abstract

Background: The genus Helichrysum Mill. (Asteraceae) comprises approximately 500–600 species and has a long history of traditional medicinal use. This review aimed to evaluate the geographical distribution, plant parts, preparation methods, and medicinal indications associated with Helichrysum species.

Methods: A literature review was conducted between April and September 2026 using Scopus, PubMed, and TR Dizin, supplemented by Google Scholar and ResearchGate. Publications identifying Helichrysum taxa and documenting traditional medicinal uses were eligible. Of 110 sources, 10 were excluded, 80 were included in the ethnobotanical analysis, and 20 were retained as supporting references. An ethnobotanical record represented a documented traditional medicinal use associated with an identifiable taxon. Data were analyzed descriptively, and medicinal indications were classified using the WHO ICD-11 Browser. Uses without classifiable medical indications were excluded from ICD-11 analysis.

Results: ICD-11 classification yielded 275 chapter assignments, primarily involving symptoms, signs or clinical findings (n = 75; 27.27%), followed by genitourinary (n = 49; 17.82%), digestive (n = 32; 11.64%), and respiratory diseases (n = 31; 11.27%). Türkiye and South Africa were prominent geographical locations. Flowers and aerial parts were commonly used, while infusion and decoction predominated as preparation methods.

Conclusions: Helichrysum species exhibit diverse traditional medicinal uses. Further pharmacological, toxicological, and clinical studies are needed to establish their efficacy and safety.

Keywords: Ethnobotany, Biological activity, Helichrysum, Pharmacology, Phytochemistry