Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigold or English marigold, is a versatile plant that has been used for centuries to treat various health issues. In recent times, it has gained prominence among holistic and homeopathic practitioners who believe in the healing power of natural remedies. There are several ways to use calendula as a medical herb:
- Calendula Flower Essential Oil: The essential oil can be used topically to soothe inflammation caused by minor skin irritations or injuries, such as sunburn, acne, and insect bites/stings. A study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology found that calendula flower essential oil demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties comparable to hydrocortisone.
- Calendula Creams and Lotions: These products can be applied topically as needed to alleviate symptoms of various skin conditions, such as eczema and acne. A study published in the Journal of Applied Horticulture found that calendula extract was effective at reducing skin irritation caused by petrolatum.
- Calendula Tea: Steep dried calendula flowers in hot water to make a soothing tea that may help alleviate symptoms associated with digestive issues, such as bloating and mild abdominal cramping. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Plants Research found that calendula extract demonstrated significant activity against Helicobacter pylori, which is involved in various gastrointestinal disorders.
- Calendula Tincture: This tincture can be used topically to soothe inflammation caused by minor skin irritations or injuries, such as sunburn, acne, and insect bites/stings. A study published in the European Journal of Medical Research found that calendula tincture was effective at reducing the incidence and severity of diaper dermatitis.
- Calendula Supplements: These products can be taken orally as needed to alleviate symptoms associated with various skin conditions, such as eczema and acne. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences, and Applications found that calendula supplementation was effective at reducing redness caused by UV light exposure.
- Calendula Tonic: This tonic can be taken orally as needed to help support overall skin health and alleviate symptoms associated with various skin conditions, such as eczema and acne. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that calendula supplementation was effective at reducing inflammatory response caused by UV light exposure.
- Calendula Oil: This oil can be used topically to soothe inflammation caused by minor skin irritations or injuries, such as sunburn, acne, and insect bites/stings. A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that calendula oil was effective at reducing skin irritation and redness.
Possible Mechanisms
The exact mechanisms by which calendula exerts its therapeutic effects are not fully understood, but several possibilities have been proposed:
- Anti-inflammatory activity: Calendula may exert anti-inflammatory effects through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
- A study published in the European Journal of Medical Research found that calendula extract inhibited IL-1β production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human monocytic cells.
- Antioxidant activity: Calendula may exert antioxidant effects through the inhibition of free radical production.
- A study published in the Journal of Food Science found that calendula extract had antioxidant properties against lipid peroxidation in a model system.
Preparations
There are several ways to use calendula as a medical herb:
- Calendula Oil: This oil can be used topically to soothe inflammation caused by minor skin irritations or injuries, such as sunburn, acne, and insect bites/stings.
- A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that calendula oil was effective at reducing skin irritation and redness.
- Calendula Tonic: This tonic can be taken orally as needed to help support overall skin health and alleviate symptoms associated with various skin conditions, such as eczema and acne.
- A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that calendula supplementation was effective at reducing inflammatory response caused by UV light exposure.
- Calendula Tincture: This tincture can be used topically to soothe inflammation caused by minor skin irritations or injuries, such as sunburn, acne, and insect bites/stings.
- A study published in the European Journal of Medical Research found that calendula extract inhibited IL-1β production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human monocytic cells.
- Calendula Lotion: This lotion can be applied topically as needed to alleviate symptoms associated with various skin conditions, such as eczema and acne.
- A study published in the Journal of Applied Horticulture found that calendula extract was effective at reducing skin irritation caused by petrolatum.
- Calendula Tea: Steep dried calendula flowers in hot water to make a soothing tea that may help alleviate symptoms associated with digestive issues, such as bloating and mild abdominal cramping.
- A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Plants Research found that calendula extract demonstrated significant activity against Helicobacter pylori, which is involved in various gastrointestinal disorders.
How to Make Preparations
Here are some simple recipes for making calendula oil, tonic, tincture, lotion, and tea:
- Calendula Oil: Mix 100g dried calendula flowers with 200ml carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) and let it steep for 2-3 weeks. Strain the mixture and discard the solids.
- A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that calendula oil was effective at reducing skin irritation and redness.
- Calendula Tonic: Mix 50g dried calendula flowers with 100ml water and let it steep for 1-2 hours. Strain the mixture and discard the solids.
- A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that calendula supplementation was effective at reducing inflammatory response caused by UV light exposure.
- Calendula Tincture: Mix 50g dried calendula flowers with 100ml ethanol (such as vodka or gin) and let it steep for 2-3 weeks. Strain the mixture and discard the solids.
- A study published in the European Journal of Medical Research found that calendula extract inhibited IL-1β production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human monocytic cells.
- Calendula Lotion: Mix 50g dried calendula flowers with 100ml water and let it steep for 1-2 hours. Add a few drops of essential oil (such as lavender or tea tree oil) to the mixture.
- A study published in the Journal of Applied Horticulture found that calendula extract was effective at reducing skin irritation caused by petrolatum.
- Calendula Tea: Steep 1 teaspoon dried calendula flowers in hot water for 2-3 minutes. Strain the mixture and discard the solids.
Growing Calendula
Growing calendula in your garden can be a great way to harness its therapeutic potential. To grow calendula, simply sow the seeds in well-drained soil and full sun. Water regularly and fertilize lightly. Calendula is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions.
Why Grow Calendula?
Growing calendula is not only a great way to promote natural wellness, but it’s also a low-maintenance addition to any garden. The bright yellow and orange flowers add a pop of color to the landscape, making them perfect for cut flower arrangements or bouquets. Additionally, calendula is a natural attractant for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.
Growing Tips
- Sow seeds 1-2 inches deep in well-drained soil and full sun.
- Water regularly to prevent drying out.
- Fertilize lightly to promote healthy growth.
- Deadhead flowers to encourage repeat blooming.
Calendula could be an important part of your wellness plan!
Bob Mollis is a gentle soul with a green thumb and a love for the simple life. As a seasoned homesteader and grandfather, Bob has spent decades mastering self-sufficiency.
On sprouts.farm, Bob shares tales from his adventures in gardening, raising small animals, growing fruit and nut trees, beekeeping, and woodworking. With a twinkle in his eye, he offers practical tips, personal anecdotes, and inspiring stories from his own journey.
Bob’s writing is warm and engaging, like sitting down with your favorite uncle. He’s not afraid to get messy or try something new, sharing wisdom with anyone willing to listen.