March Plant Spotlight: Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

This month I wanted to highlight another one of my favorite plant allies – Calendula.  I first learned about Calendula’s herbal actions during my clinical apprenticeship, when it was one of the plants we were required to research and write a materia medica for.  

For those unfamiliar with the term, a materia medica in herbalism is a comprehensive reference that documents a plant’s properties, including its scientific and common names, origin, parts used, medicinal actions, contraindications and traditional uses. 

Calendula’s Story

Native to Southern Europe, calendula is part of the Asteraceae family (the daisy family). It has a long history of use in Western herbal medicine and has also appeared in spiritual and cultural traditions across Roman, Greek, and Indian rituals and ceremonies.

It has also been used as a culinary ingredient—its bright golden petals are edible and were historically added to foods for both color and flavor.

Herbal Benefits of Calendula

Often referred to as the “herb from the sun” Calendula has been traditionally and clinically studied for a wide range of supportive benefits, including:

1.     Skin & Topical Applications

Calendula is widely regarded as a powerful yet gentle skin ally due to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and antioxidant properties.  

It is commonly used in skincare and herbal formulations to support skin repair and soothe minor irritations including: 

·      minor wounds and scrapes

·      inflamed skin (including minor burns and sunburn)

·      acne and rashes 

·      varicose veins

Calendula also demonstrates antifungal activity and has been traditionally used in preparations supporting conditions like ringworm and athlete’s foot.  

Because of its gentle nature, calendula is frequently used to support diaper rash, cradle cap and sore nipples from breastfeeding.  

2.     Digestive Support

Calendula’s anti-inflammatory action has traditionally been used to support digestive health.  When prepared as an infusion or tincture, it has been used to help soothe gastritis, peptic ulcers and colitis.

3.     Gynecological Support

Calendula has mild estrogenic action and has traditionally been used to ease menstrual pain and support menstrual bleeding.  It has also been used in traditional preparations for vaginal health.

4.     Lymphatic & Detoxifying Support

Calendula has traditionally been considered a lymphatic and alterative herb, supporting the body’s natural detoxifying process including underlying issues related to fevers, infections and systemic skin disorders such as acne and eczema.

How to Use Calendula 

Calendula flower can be prepared in a variety of ways including 

·      salves and balms

·      herbal infusions (teas)

·      tinctures

·      ointments/creams

·      infused oils

Safety Note:

As a precaution, internal use of calendula during pregnancy is not recommended unless under the guidance of a medical professional.  Topical use is considered safe.

A Personal Herbal Favorite

Calendula is a key herbal ally used in Casa + Jardin’s formulations and is a staple in our family’s herbal first aid kit.  

Get to know her – you won’t regret it.

Con amor,

Christina 

References:  

• Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chavellier

• The Modern Herbal Dispensatory by Thomas Easely

• An Updated Review on the Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Calendula officinalis L.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.