Calendula has long been known for its various gardening, culinary, and medicinal benefits. The calendula flower is not only a brightly coloured, eye-catching plant, but also has healing properties, making it a great addition to any first aid kit.
The calendula flower, long known as “pot marigold”, is a member of the Asteraceae family. It originates from the Mediterranean region of Europe, although it can now be found all over the world. Calendula plants are distinguished by their bright petals, usually yellow or orange, growing 1–2 feet tall. The narrow petals of calendula are often described as sun rays – hence the name “Mother of the Sun”. Calendula is not only a culinary ingredient but is also well known for its medicinal use.
Calendula petals are rich in natural compounds called flavonoids, which:
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Reduce inflammation (anti-inflammatory effect)
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Help prevent excessive blood clotting (antithrombotic)
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Have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels (antidiabetic)
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Help fight cancer (anticancer)
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Protect the brain (neuroprotective effect)
Calendula flowers contain active natural chemicals such as:
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Triterpenoid saponins (oleanolic acid glycosides)
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Triterpenoid alcohols (α and β-amyrins, faradiol)
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Flavonoids (quercetin and isorhamnetin)
The calendula flower is widely used as a medicinal plant with antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Whole petals and flower heads can be used; they may be ground into powder or processed into oils, creams, and ointments. Calendula can be used as a spice and as an ingredient in cosmetics, soaps, shampoos, and hand creams.
The most popular calendula products:
Calendula is a unique plant:
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Calendula petals are edible. Some people like to use them as a garnish. Their flavour profile is considered mildly sweet and peppery.
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A great decorative tool. Calendula can be used as a natural food or fabric dye, to brighten summer salads or decorate the table.
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In floristry, calendula flowers add brightness to bouquets and various arrangements.
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Calendula is used as a natural yellow dye for wool and other fabrics.
Healing properties of calendula
Wounds
Calendula is primarily known as a healing herb because of its soothing properties. Although it is a gentle herb, the healing power of calendula petals is very strong, which is why it is recommended for every home first aid kit.
Calendula is useful for treating all kinds of wounds, including insect bites, bruises, blisters, cuts, and cold sores. Topically, calendula ointment is used to help maintain healthy skin on the hands and feet and to promote skin tissue regeneration.
In one study published in the journal Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology, wounds in animals treated topically with calendula healed by 90%, compared to 51% in the control group. The study concluded that a “marked wound-healing effect” was observed.
Calendula stimulates circulation, which speeds healthy healing without infection and promotes the growth of healthy new tissue.
A study published in The Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care examined the effectiveness of calendula ointment in treating caesarean section scars in 72 women. Compared with standard hospital wound care, the women treated with calendula ointment healed faster, and their incisions were reported to be less red and swollen.
Calendula herb is also effective in treating minor burns, including sunburn. Calendula cream helps protect against the sun and is therefore included in some sunscreen formulations for preventive purposes in the cosmetics industry.
Calendula ointment can be applied to wounds to help reduce swelling; the antimicrobial components in calendula flowers may help prevent secondary infection and speed up the healing process.
A therapeutic effect of calendula ointment has also been observed in the treatment of venous leg ulcers. We all know that non-healing venous ulcers have a major impact on patients’ quality of life. A 2016 study showed that in patients with venous leg ulcers, the weekly percentage wound-healing rate increased fourfold with calendula ointment – 7.4% compared to 1.7% in the control group. No adverse effects were observed with calendula treatment.
Calendula ointment is suitable for eczema-affected, poorly healing wounds that show signs of sensitivity, redness or inflammation, as well as in the presence of allergic skin reactions. Signs of an allergic skin reaction include redness, bumps, itching, and rash.
Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, causes dry, red, itchy skin. This type of reaction is quite common and occurs in 10–20% of children and 1–3% of adults. Those with a family history of allergies may be at higher risk of developing eczema. If the rash becomes infected, small fluid-filled pustules may appear.
According to the NHS (the UK National Health Service), eczema is a long-term condition that causes the skin to become dry, itchy, red and cracked. Children are at higher risk of eczema, although in recent years it has been increasingly observed across different age groups. In eczema, symptoms can range from small patches of dry skin to widespread, inflamed areas of cracked skin. It is suggested that regularly applying calendula ointment containing active anti-inflammatory components can help reduce eczema symptoms and the risk of flare-ups.
Hives appear as red welts or raised streaks on the skin. They are usually caused by direct contact with an allergen or an infection.
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin touches an allergen, such as a plant or latex. The reaction usually appears as red, itchy bumps in the affected area.
Of course, the best way to treat chronic skin allergies is to see an allergist. However, as supportive measures, moisturising creams or ointments with chamomile, calendula, or aloe can be used.
If you think you have touched an allergen that has triggered contact dermatitis, wash the area well with water and a mild soap. Apply a moisturising cream to reduce itching and avoid scratching. If this does not help, it is advisable to see a doctor or pharmacist, who may prescribe steroids to reduce inflammation or antihistamines to lessen the allergic reaction and stop the itching. It is also best to stay out of the sun until the reaction resolves, as UV rays can further irritate the skin.
Digestive system
Just as topically applied calendula can help heal external wounds and burns, it can also soothe internal lesions, such as ulcers, heartburn, or irritable bowel syndrome. Calendula tea has a protective effect on the stomach lining, improves digestion, restores gut microbiota and reduces discomfort. Some studies have shown a link between gut health and mental health, including depression. Because calendula helps restore and improve gut function, this link can positively influence brain function.
Immunity and calendula
It has been found that calendula strengthens the immune system’s ability to fight infection. This is likely because calendula has antimicrobial properties, meaning it slows down or kills infection-causing organisms. Due to its antibacterial effects, it may help with a stubborn cough or runny nose that just won’t go away.
Muscle spasms
Calendula has traditionally been used in creams and lotions to help relieve muscle spasms. One study from Pakistan showed that applying calendula ointment to spasming areas helped relax spontaneous muscle contractions.
Because of its ability to relax muscles, calendula tea is very suitable for menstrual cramps, diarrhoea, and spasming or strained muscles.
Calendula is generally considered safe. However, people who are allergic to the Asteraceae (daisy) family may experience side effects such as rashes and other allergic reactions.
In addition, because calendula may stimulate menstruation, most medical professionals advise pregnant, breastfeeding, and trying-to-conceive women to avoid this herb. Before using it, it is essential to consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Calendula products should be stored in a dry, dark place free from moisture. If you keep dried petals, they should be placed in an airtight container. Oils, tinctures, or creams containing calendula should be stored in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry place.
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