Calendula (calendula officinalis)
Calendula (calendula officinalis)
Common Names: garden marigold, pot marigold, bride of the sun
Family: Asteraceae
Parts Used: Flowers
Constituents: Essential oils, saponins, resin, bitter principle, flavonols
Medicinal Actions: Anti-bacterial, alterative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic/antimicrobial, astringent, bitter, cholagogue, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, hemostatic, antispasmodic, lymphatic, vulnerary, antimicrobial, anti-fungal, anthelmintic, antiviral, normalizes female body reproductive system, promotes skin formation
Medicinal Use:
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Skin health: Calendula has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it useful for treating skin conditions such as wounds, burns, and eczema.
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Digestive health: Calendula may have a beneficial effect on the digestive system by reducing inflammation and irritation in the digestive tract, making it useful for treating conditions such as ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and constipation.
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Immune system support: Calendula may help to support the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections.
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Menstrual cramps: Calendula may help to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation in the uterus.
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Anti-cancer properties: Calendula may have anti-cancer properties and may help to reduce the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Historically, calendula has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of health conditions, including skin conditions, digestive disorders, and menstrual cramps. It was also used as a dye and as a culinary ingredient.
Contraindications: early pregnancy