Uses of Calendula

Calendula (Calendula officinalis), more commonly known as pot marigold, grows natively in Mexico, Central America and the Mediterranean, though it is cultivated throughout the world. Despite its common name, the plant actually belongs to the aster family, which also includes daisy, sunflower and dandelion. Calendula plants reach heights of up to 24 inches and provide a lovely display in the flower garden. For thousands of years, people have used the plant medicinally and in culinary pursuits. Today, however, calendula receives the most acclaim for its ornamental features.

Medicinal

Calendula offers numerous medicinal benefits, most of which result from the plant's natural antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties. The herb's most popular medicinal uses include treating burns, cuts, scrapes and other abrasions and the minor infections they cause. Calendula ointments and creams are believed to speed wound healing. One study, published in the September 2008 edition of the "Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition," found that animals treated with calendula extract showed significant improvement in healing burns when compared with untreated animals. Other traditional, though clinically unproven, medicinal uses of the herb include treating ear infections, upset stomach, ulcers, menstrual cramps, conjunctivitis, eczema, varicose veins, colitis, acne, skin rash and inflammation, fever, toothaches and flu.

Culinary

Ground calendula flowers serve as an inexpensive replacement for saffron in soups, stews and poultry dishes. The plant's edible flowers have also been used to add color and flavor to butter, custards and liqueurs. Calendula leaves and fresh flowers added to salads and vegetable dishes provide a mild flavor enhancement, though old leaves taste bitter. In some places, commercial preparations of baked goods, soft drinks, ice creams, candies and condiments utilize calendula flowers to impart both color and flavor. Other culinary uses include flavoring stews, rice dishes, roast meats and sea foods.

Ornamental

Calendula's immense popularity derives from the plant's beauty and its brilliantly colored flowers that appear in shades of yellow to bright orange. Gardeners often grow the plant to attract beneficial insects to the garden or simply to enjoy its blooms. Featured in many ornamental gardens, calendula provides a focal point or serves as a backdrop for other plants. Plant breeders have developed numerous different varieties, including those with longer flower stems, larger flower heads and even double flowers.

Other Uses

Calendula also has several other purposes. In crafts, the dried flowers provide a burst of color to flower arrangements and are often dried to make a yellow dye for wool. In cosmetics, calendula flowers bring out highlights in blond hair and may even lighten the hair with regular use. Homemade potpourris, soaps, lotions and other cosmetics often feature calendula flowers.