Calendula – a natural plant for skin care, everyday well-being, and overall comfort
This plant is not only easy to grow and visually attractive, but also extremely versatile in everyday life. Calendula can be used to make hand creams, oils, gels, compresses, tinctures, or herbal teas. It is used in baths, added to toothpaste or mouthwash, and can also be consumed in culinary applications such as salads or stews. Due to its gentle nature, calendula is often chosen for daily care for both infants and older adults.
What is it? It is calendula (Calendula officinalis), valued for its wide range of uses and versatility.
Calendula is a plant that has been used for centuries for decorative, culinary, cosmetic, and traditional medicine purposes. Traditionally, calendula petals have been used to prepare ointments, oils, extracts, and infusions, which are applied for skin care, maintaining comfort, and supporting everyday well-being. Below are the main properties of calendula and its common applications.
Calendula is valued for its ability to soothe irritated skin. In the body, inflammation is a natural response to internal or external stimuli, but long-term inflammation can lead to discomfort.
Calendula-based preparations are often used as supportive skin care products in cases of irritation, dryness, or redness. This effect is believed to be linked to the flavonoids found in calendula—plant-based antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress. Calendula also contains linoleic acid, which is important for maintaining the skin’s natural barrier function.
Because of these properties, calendula extracts are commonly used in products designed for dry, sensitive, or irritated skin, including baby skin care products.
Calendula oil and extracts contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial properties. This effect is associated with flavonoids, triterpene saponins, and carotenoids.
For this reason, calendula is often included in antiseptic cosmetic products, toothpastes, and mouthwashes. Such products may help support oral hygiene, reduce plaque buildup, and maintain gum comfort.
Clinical observations suggest that calendula-based oral care products can contribute to maintaining better overall oral health as part of daily hygiene routines.
Calendula is widely used in skin care products due to its ability to support the skin’s natural renewal processes. It is believed to promote circulation and help the skin maintain elasticity and moisture balance.
Calendula-based products are commonly used to care for dry, sensitive, or compromised skin. Traditionally, calendula tea has also been consumed to support digestive comfort.
Calendula is considered a source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that form in the body due to environmental factors, stress, or natural metabolic processes.
Because of these properties, calendula extracts are used in products designed to protect the skin and support overall well-being. Research indicates that antioxidant activity is particularly valued in skin care applications.
In traditional practices, calendula has been used because of its bitter taste, which is associated with supporting digestive processes. Bitter compounds may stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and support better nutrient absorption.
Calendula tea is often consumed as part of a balanced diet to help maintain digestive comfort.
Scientific sources indicate that calendula may have immunomodulating properties. This means that the plant’s active compounds may help support the normal function of the immune system.
Herbalist Juliet Blankespoor notes that calendula has traditionally been used during the colder months, often added to soups or stews.
Calendula tea has traditionally been used to support menstrual cycle comfort.
Calendula is considered a gentle aid for supporting lymphatic system function.
Laboratory studies suggest that calendula extracts may have antispasmodic properties.
Calendula oil is widely used in cosmetics and natural skin care.
Laboratory studies suggest that calendula oil may exhibit SPF properties when used in formulations. However, it should not be used as a sole sun protection product.
Calendula extract is often included in products intended for problematic or acne-prone skin. It is recommended to use gentle cleansing products or localized treatments containing calendula extract.
Tip: Before using a new product, always perform a skin tolerance (patch) test.
The use of calendula products is not recommended during pregnancy or for individuals taking blood pressure–lowering medications without prior consultation with a healthcare professional.
