Taking place at 14.35 GMT+1 on Saturday April 11th, botanica participants are invited to take part in Helichrysum related roundtable discussions!
Running concurrently for 30 minutes, choose the topic that most interests you!
Roundtable #1
From Plant to Practice: Sustainability, Ethics and the Future of Supply
Behind every essential oil or plant extract lies a complex journey - from cultivation and harvesting to processing, distribution and clinical use. As demand for plant-based products increases, questions of sustainability, biodiversity and ethical sourcing become ever more urgent.
This roundtable brings together growers, producers, researchers and practitioners to examine the full lifecycle of medicinal and aromatic plants. Topics will include sustainable cultivation practices, environmental impact, supply chain transparency, and the role of practitioners in supporting ethical sourcing. The discussion will also explore how emerging technologies, policy frameworks and consumer awareness are shaping the future of plant supply - and what responsibilities lie with each stakeholder in safeguarding these resources for generations to come.
Core Questions:
- What does sustainability mean in your role or sector?
- Where are the greatest risks in current plant supply chains?
- How can practitioners make informed and ethical sourcing decisions?
- How can industry and practitioners better support growers and biodiversity?
Roundtable #2
Helichrysum in Clinical Practice: Exploring Species, Chemistry and Therapeutic Applications
This session offers a rare opportunity to deepen understanding of a complex genus through shared clinical experience, critical discussion, and collaborative learning.
The genus Helichrysum encompasses a diverse range of species, each with distinct phytochemical profiles and therapeutic potential. While Helichrysum italicum is perhaps the most widely recognised in clinical aromatherapy, increasing attention is being given to other species, each offering unique applications and benefits.
This interactive roundtable invites practitioners, clinicians, and researchers to share their experiences of working with different Helichrysum species in therapeutic contexts. Discussion will explore how variations in chemistry inform clinical decision-making and participants will be encouraged to contribute case-based insights, reflect on safety and substitution between species, and consider how emerging research may support or challenge current practice.
Core Questions:
- Which Helichrysum species do you most use in practice and why?
- How does chemistry influence your clinical decision-making?
- What clinical outcomes or patterns have you observed?
- Are there any safety considerations or contraindications you have encountered?
Roundtable #3
Advancing Helichrysum Science: Research Frontiers, Phytochemistry and Taxonomy
The genus Helichrysum represents a complex and evolving area of botanical and phytochemical research. Ongoing advances in taxonomy, analytical chemistry, and pharmacology continue to reshape understanding of this diverse genus.
This roundtable brings together researchers, botanists, and clinicians to explore recent developments, including phytochemical analysis, bioactivity studies, and plant classification. The discussion will also examine implications for clinical practice and future research priorities.
Core questions
- What are the most significant recent advances in Helichrysum research?
- How are developments in taxonomy and analysis influencing use of different species?
- Which emerging areas of research show the greatest clinical promise?
- What steps are needed to connect research with the end user?