Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Common Names: Calendula, Pot Marigold
  • Parts Used: Flowers (petals)

Description

Calendula is a hardy annual herb native to Southern Europe and parts of Asia. It has bright orange or yellow daisy-like flowers and has long been revered for its healing properties, particularly for the skin. The flowers are the primary medicinal component.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European herbal medicine to promote wound healing and soothe skin irritations.
  • Traditionally employed for digestive issues and menstrual regulation.
  • Calendula flowers have been used topically as antiseptics and anti-inflammatory agents in various cultures.

Constituents

  • Flavonoids
  • Triterpenoids
  • Carotenoids (beta-carotene, lutein)
  • Saponins
  • Essential oils
  • Mucilage

Actions

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antimicrobial
  • Vulnerary (wound healing)
  • Antioxidant
  • Antispasmodic
  • Lymphatic tonic

Medicinal Uses

1. Wound Healing and Skin Health:
Calendula is widely known for promoting the healing of cuts, wounds, burns, and insect bites. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects prevent infections and reduce swelling.

2. Digestive and Gastrointestinal Support:
Internally, Calendula can help soothe gastritis, ulcers, and other inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract.

3. Menstrual Health:
Calendula is traditionally used to regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve cramps due to its antispasmodic and emmenagogue properties.

4. Immune System Support:
Its lymphatic and anti-inflammatory effects support detoxification and help clear infections, including respiratory and skin-related ailments.

5. Antiseptic and Antifungal:
Calendula has antimicrobial properties that make it effective for fungal infections such as athlete’s foot and yeast infections.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried Calendula flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily for digestive or menstrual support.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml of Calendula tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Poultice or Compress:

  • Apply fresh or dried Calendula flowers directly to wounds, or use an infused cloth as a compress.

Ointments and Creams:

  • Calendula-infused oils and salves are applied topically for skin conditions and minor wounds.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy: Internal use should be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential emmenagogue effects.
  • Allergic Reactions: Individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as chamomile or ragweed) should use with caution.
  • Medication Interactions: No major known interactions, but consult a healthcare professional if on medications for skin conditions.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Ayurvedic: Cooling and slightly bitter, Calendula balances pitta and kapha doshas while stimulating digestion.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine: Used to cool heat, reduce inflammation, and detoxify the body.

Combinations

  • For Skin Healing: Combine with comfrey and plantain.
  • For Digestive Support: Combine with chamomile and peppermint.
  • For Menstrual Cramps: Combine with cramp bark and ginger.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Flowers should be harvested on a dry day, ideally in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
  • Drying: Spread flowers on a drying rack in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Modern Research

Studies have validated Calendula’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. Research is ongoing to explore its antioxidant and immune-boosting benefits in modern clinical applications.

Calendula continues to be a staple in traditional and modern herbal medicine, offering effective solutions for skin healing, digestive support, and immune health.