Calendula oil, extracted from seeds of the pot marigold and prized for its medicinal properties, is used in several medical applications. Although anecdotal evidence of the oil's effectiveness abounds, MedlinePlus points out that scientific studies thusfar have been largely limited to in-vitro and animal testing. Extensive human testing will be needed to conclusively confirm any benefits from the oil.
Soothes, Heals Skin Damage
Widely used in cosmetic applications, calendula oil also appears to have curative effects on damaged skin, including burns, abrasions and other wounds. Two small-scale human studies offer support for the efficacy of calendula oil in such applications. German researchers applied protective cream containing calendula oil to volunteers before attempts were made to induce irritant contact dermatitis in those subjects. The study's findings, published in the July/August 2005 issue of "Skin Pharmacology and Physiology," showed that volunteers treated with the calendula-based cream acquired a significant degree of resistance to dermatitis. However, the cream showed no effect when used to treat dermatitis that had already been induced.
In the second study, researchers in Serbia and Montenegro used a calendula-based cream to treat venous leg ulcers in 21 patients; a control group of 13 test subjects had their ulcers treated with saline solution dressings. At the conclusion of three weeks of treatment, the surface area of ulcers in the group treated with calendula had shrunk by nearly 42 percent, compared with only 14.5 percent in the control group. The study was published in a 2005 issue of the "International Journal of Tissue Reactions."
Inhibits Fungal Activity
Calendula oil also shows promise as an antifungal agent, based on findings from an in-vitro study that was published in the January/March 2008 issue of the "Brazilian Journal of Microbiology." Researchers at two Brazilian pharmacy colleges tested calendula oil against 23 strains of fungi, including multiple species of Candida and Rhodotorula. Researchers found that the calendula oil was effective against all strains of fungi that were tested. In an article in the January/February 2008 issue of "Mothering," herbalist Aviva Romm recommends using a calendula oil-based suppository to fight vaginal yeast infections.
Eases Pain of Bumps, Bruises
Mary Preus, longtime herb farmer and author of the "Northwest Herb Lover's Handbook," offers a recipe for a soothing balm that has calendula oil as one of its key ingredients. The balm can be used to ease the pain that follows bumps and bruises or rubbed onto aching and strained muscles. Warm 1/3 cup each of calendula oil and St. John's wort oil in a double-boiler or a glass container sitting in the simmering water of a stainless steel sauce pan. Warm the oils until any moisture bubbles rise to the top and burst. Add 1 oz. of chopped beeswax and stir until it's fully blended into the oils. For a firmer salve, add additional beeswax to reach desired consistency. Remove the mixture from the heat and add 10 drops of lavender essential oil. The mixture can be strained through a muslin cloth if desired. Pour the mixture into small glass containers and allow it to set.
References
- MedlinePlus: Calendula
- PubMed.gov: Protective Effects of Different Marigold (Calendula Officinalis L.) and Rosemary Cream Preparations against Sodium-Lauryl-Sulfate-Induced Irritant Contact Dermatitis
- PubMed.gov: Results of the Clinical Examination of an Ointment with Marigold (Calendula Officinalis) Extract in the Treatment of Venous Leg Ulcers
- Brazilian Journal of Microbiology: Antifungal Activity of the Essential Oil from Calendula Officinalis L. (Asteraceae) Growing in Brazil
- "Mothering"; Herbs for the Mom-to-Be; Aviva Romm; January/February 2008.
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