Calendula Flowers

Latin name: Calendula officinalis

Health Benefits of Calendula Flowers 

Calendula is also known as common marigold.  This flower promotes cell repair and acts as an antiseptic, which keeps infection from occurring in injuries.  It is commonly used internally as well as externally.  Health benefits include:

• One of the best herbs for treating local skin problems such as burns, inflammation, mucositis, and pharyngitis.
• The phytochemicals in calendula oppose fungi, bacteria, viruses, and inflammation. They also excite white blood cells in the immune system to fight microbial invaders. For these reasons and others, calendula has been a good treatment for skin problems of all kinds, particularly cuts, scrapes, bruises, and minor wounds.
• Is used for intestinal disorders because it limits swelling and inflammation in the lining of the stomach and intestines. It is used to help with ulcers, cramps, indigestion, and diarrhea for this reason.
• Used to treat fever.
• Used as a gargle for reducing inflammation of the mouth and throat, laryngitis and tonsillitis, and dryness of the lungs.
• Because of anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can be used to treat ear infections, eye infections such as conjunctivitis, and also for vaginal itching.
• Used to treat diaper rash, eczema, and acne.
• Other uses include treatment of varicose veins, capillary engorgement, and hepatic and splenic congestion.

Nutritional Benefits of Calendula Flowers

• Contains beta-carotene.

How to Use Calendula Flowers

• Flowers are edible, and may be added to salads, cereals, rice, and soups to add flavor and color. The petals can also be dried for use in teas for internal use.
• For external use, it works best applied in a salve or oil and rubbed on generously.

Cautions and Side Effects of Calendula Flowers

• Safe during pregnancy and nursing, and safe for children.
• There are no known interactions or side effects from the flowers.