Helichrysum italicum (Roth) G. Don: Taxonomy, biological activity, biochemical and genetic diversity

•Helichrysum italicum is used in pharmaceutical, cosmetic and perfume industry.•Significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial activities.•Chemotypes mainly rich either in oxygenated compounds or hydrocarbons.•Difficult distinction among subspecies due to high morphological variation.•Further research on the genetic diversity and agronomic management is essential.