The cheerful pot marigold, Calendula officinalis, has a rich and diverse history in areas such as cooking, cosmetics, gardening and healing. Chefs historically used dried calendula flowers to add color to butters and cheese, and they still use the petals as an inexpensive alternative to saffron for adding flavor and color to soups, sauces and meats. Medicinal use of calendula dates back at least to the 12th century, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Components of Calendula
The calendula plant possesses several elements that have shown beneficial properties. Calendula contains a high amount of flavonoids, which protect the body from free radicals. Triterpenoids, plant toxins found in calendula, may suppress cell fusion and inhibit viral replication, says the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Beta-carotene and lutein, carotenoids with antioxidant properties, are also significant components of calendula.
Effects of Calendula
Sloan-Kettering says calendula has shown anti-parasitic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-HIV effects. The herb may reduce earaches in children, prevent dermatitis in cancer patient undergoing radiation therapy and trigger anti-tumor and cytotoxic activities. Calendula also has antiviral effects and speeds the healing of wounds, bruises, cuts and burns, states the UMMC.
Calendula Products
Topical calendula products include herbal and homeopathic ointments, gels, lotions and creams. Homeopathic calendula remedies also include sprays, oils and sugar-based pellets. Calendula is not typically ingested, with the exception of homeopathic pellets and calendula tea. Cosmetic products such as soaps, moisturizers and lip balms may also contain calendula.
Uses for Calendula
Herbal and homeopathic practitioners consider calendula a remedy of choice for skin issues. Topical calendula applied to rashes, burns, cuts and sunburns speeds healing and prevents scarring. Homeopathic calendula assists in wound healing, both with topical applications and oral doses of pellets. Calendula may also alleviate stomach upsets, menstrual cramps and ulcers.
Calendula Precautions
Allergies to plants in the same family as calendula may cause a reaction, usually a skin rash resulting from a topical application. The UMMC advises that calendula may interfere with conception, pregnancy or breastfeeding and should be avoided in those situations. Avoid using calendula with deep wounds; the plant's ability to heal wounds quickly may cause the outer layers to heal before the inner, which can lead to abscess. Interactions between calendula and other medications have not been documented, but the UMMC warns calendula may interact with sedatives or blood pressure medications. Before using calendula, consult a health care professional to discuss possible adverse effects or contraindications.
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