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Calendula
Also known as pot marigold (Calendula officinalis), calendula is a versatile herb native to the Mediterranean region. Europeans have grown this flowering plant in their gardens since the 1100s, actively using it through the centuries as a food and healing agent. A member of the aster family, calendula should not be confused with the common garden marigold (Tagetes species), which also sports bright orange and yellow flowers. It’s the colorful blossoming tops that are used medicinally.
The name "calendula" connotes to the plant’s tendency to bloom according to the calendar, either once a month or at the new moon. Some sources also refer to calendula by its medieval moniker, "poor man's saffron," because it lends vibrant color and flavor to soups, rice, and chowders. These days, the colorful petals are a popular addition to salads.
Calendula is nature's remedy for many of life's little accidents: sunburns, bruises, and scratches, to name a few. In years past, the herb was used to treat wide-ranging ailments, such as fever, cancer, and skin infections. Contemporary herbalists now focus primarily on its topical uses, namely, for treating boils, rashes, sunburns, chapped hands, insect bites, and other instances of inflamed or damaged skin. Lotions and other topical calendula preparations (tinctures, ointments, creams, gargles) are still widely used in Europe, particularly for slow-healing skin problems. Many of these topical formulations can now be found in pharmacies, health-food stores, and other outlets in the United States.
The herb's primary active compounds include triterpenoids (they are anti-inflammatory) and flavonoids. Modern laboratory and animal studies indicate that calendula petals do indeed have anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antiseptic (antibacterial and antiviral) properties, and may even offer immune-stimulating actions. The benefits of calendula in healing burns and wounds have also been demonstrated in research studies.
The inflammation of a sore throat may be lessened by gargling or rinsing with an astringent tea made from the dried calendula flowers. German health authorities approve of using calendula tea for treating throat soreness and inflammation.
Although drinking calendula tea may possibly help to control internal inflammation--some herbalists recommend it for stomach upset and ulcers--there is relatively little firm evidence to support its value when taken internally (in any form). For this reason, teas and other forms designed to be taken internally are not recommended.
Specifically, calendula used topically may help to:
Heal burns and soothe sunburns. Because it reduces inflammation and has antiseptic and gentle astringent actions, calendula may help burns to heal more rapidly. Some herbalists contend that it is the single most effective herb for use in the treatment of first-degree burns. Since sunburn is a first-degree burn, it’s no surprise that a number of sunburn products contain calendula.
Relieve athlete's foot. In laboratory studies, calendula has demonstrated anti-fungal effects. Since athlete's foot is caused by a fungus, treating the ailment with a calendula-containing product may be worthwhile.
Ease the itch of insect bites and stings. Calendula can reduce the swelling and itching associated with insect bites and may even help to prevent infection due to its antimicrobial actions. Astringent actions promote healing.
Heal canker sores. Many herbalists recommend gargling with a calendula mixture to fight the germs and the inflammation associated with these painful sores.
Speed the healing of cuts and scrapes. Calendula is a common remedy for minor skin wounds such as cuts and scratches, helping the wound to heal more rapidly.
- tincture
- ointment
- lotion
- dried herb/tea
- cream
Special tips:
--To make calendula tea, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1/2 teaspoon of dried florets (flower tops) and steep for 10 minutes. Once cooled, use the tea as a mouthwash, gargle, or in a cooling compress for wounds.
Calendula extract is typically prepared from dried flowers and included in topical products such as tinctures, lotions, creams, and ointments.
For burns (including sunburn), apply three times a day to affected area until healed.
For athletes foot, apply cream or lotion to affected area twice a day until clear.
For insect bites and stings, rub a small dab of cream into skin several times a day or as needed.
For canker sores, rinse mouth 1 tbsp. liquid extract mixed with 1/2 cup water or with cooled tea 3 times a day.
For cuts and scrapes, apply ointment or cream 3 times a day, bandaging lightly if necessary.
Most topical products containing calendula, such as ointments, can safely be used three to four times a day.
There are no known drug or nutrient interactions associated with calendula.
If you have an allergy to ragweed or other members of the aster family, you may also be allergic to calendula.
When treating any type of wound, remember that the most important thing you can do to prevent infection is to thoroughly clean the area before applying calendula ointment or any other type of herb or medicine.
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Ailments
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Dosage
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| Athlete's Foot |
Apply cream or lotion to affected areas twice a day.
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| Burns |
Apply cream to burns as needed.
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| Canker Sores |
1 tbsp. liquid extract mixed with 1/2 cup warm water; swish around the mouth and spit out.
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| Cuts and Scrapes |
Apply cream to wound 3 times a day in place of aloe or lavender oil.
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| Insect Bites and Stings |
Rub small dab of cream into skin several times a day, or as needed.
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| Sports Injuries |
Apply cream to painful skin abrasions 3 or 4 times a day as needed.
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| Sunburn |
Apply cream to affected areas as needed to promote healing.
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