Marigold (Calendula officinalis) is a garden plant with golden orange or yellow flowers that have a strong, distinctive scent. Marigold is also known as garden marigold, Mary bud, holligold, goldbloom, golds, ruddes, bull’s eyes, and pot marigold. Marigold herb should not be confused with plants belonging to the genus Tagetes, which are true marigolds. The bright, blooming marigold herb opens its flowers in the morning and closes them at dusk and when rain threatens. The herb is native to Asia and southern and central Europe. The plant was brought to North America by early settlers and has become a garden favorite.
Pharmacological studies of plants have suggested that calendula extracts have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Calendula has been used for centuries as a medicinal, culinary, and magical herb. This flowering herb is considered a vulnerary agent or a substance that promotes healing. Calendula has a long history of use as a botanical to heal wounds and soothe the skin. It has impressive healing powers and can clear up many different types of skin problems.
When applied topically, calendula has anti-inflammatory qualities that can prevent infection of minor skin wounds. It can reduce itching, redness, pain, and swelling from bug bites and rashes. It is soothing for sunburns, cuts, scrapes, dry and cracked hands and minor burns. A study in breast cancer patients receiving radiation therapy suggested that calendula ointment may be helpful in preventing skin dermatitis.
In addition to its topical uses, calendula also acts as a digestive remedy when taken internally. Traditionally, calendula has been used for abdominal cramps and constipation. An infusion of the flowers is beneficial in treating ulcers, stomach cramps, colitis, and diarrhea. It can also be used as a useful external wash for the treatment of bee stings, eye inflammations, abscesses, acne, and as a gargle for mouth sores.
Calendula contains components called flavonoids, which are antioxidants found naturally in fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids give plants their beautiful bright colors and also protect them from insects and microbes. These components protect the body’s cells in the same way, protecting them from free radicals and damage that can lead to disease.
Calendula is a relatively mild, non-toxic herb with no known side effects. There are several topical calendula preparations available for external use. Calendula balm is a useful and versatile product to keep in your first aid kit or home medicine cabinet. This product is useful for treating minor cuts and abrasions, and is also great for chapped lips and diaper rash. Calendula is a popular ingredient used in soaps, oils, lotions, ointments, and creams.
Many consumers look for skin care products that contain organic and natural ingredients. When products made with artificial preservatives are used, these chemicals can be absorbed through the skin. Prescription medications can be administered through the skin via a patch, and other skin care products can also be absorbed into the body. On the contrary, the body will absorb all the natural ingredients when you use organic and natural products. There are many natural products available that contain calendula as an ingredient.
Calendula has a long history of use as a botanical to heal wounds and soothe the skin. The most beneficial actions of the calendula herb are its positive effects on the skin. The herb is a very good remedy for many types of skin problems. Calendula flower preparations are valued as antiseptics for external application on scrapes, burns, cuts or wounds. Local application is an effective healing remedy. This herb is a popular ingredient used in soaps, oils, lotions, ointments, and creams.
