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Calendula (calendula officinalis)

by Sarah Wang

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:

  1. Skin health: Calendula has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it useful for treating skin conditions such as wounds, burns, and eczema.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Menstrual cramps: Calendula may help to reduce the severity of menstrual cramps by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation in the uterus.

  5. 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

 

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