Balıkesir Aromatherapy Festival Highlights Medicinal and Cosmetic Potential of Anatolian Immortal Flowers

The 7th International Aromatherapy Festival, organized by the Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality, featured a seminar by associate professor Doç. Dr. Ebru Özdemir Nath. Titled "Immortality from Nature: Cosmetic Potential of Anatolian Immortal Flowers," the presentation examined Helichrysum species native to Anatolia, emphasizing their anti‑aging, cell‑renewal, and cosmetic applications. Özdemir Nath noted that Turkey hosts 34 Helichrysum taxa, 17 of which are endemic, ranking third worldwide for endemic richness. She discussed the low yield of essential oils, the value of extracts, and the growing number of firms producing these ingredients. The speaker also referenced collaboration with the Balıkesir Farmer Education Center (BAÇEM) to develop sustainable cultivation and production, and mentioned interest from French cosmetics stakeholders.

The event underscored Turkey’s botanical assets and their potential for pharmaceutical and cosmetic innovation, positioning the region as a notable source for natural anti‑aging ingredients.