Calendula Uses

Calendula officinalis, commonly refereed to as calendula, is a plant that is native to the Mediterranean, and it belongs to the same family as daisies and ragweed. The orange-yellow petals of the calendula flower have been used for medicinal purposes for over 1,000 years. Today, the fresh or dried petals are available in tincture, liquid extract and infusion form, for internal use, as well as in ointment and cream form for topical purposes.

Mechanism of Action

Calendula contains calcium, vitamins C and E, and coenzyme Q10. Calendula contains over 20 phytochemicals, and it is therefore considered a potent antioxidant with the ability to protect your body, cells and DNA from free radical-induced damage. Phytochemicals are antioxidant substances found naturally in plants, and they are thought to prevent disease in humans. According to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York, preliminary studies suggest that calendula also contains anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antiparasetic, anti-HIV, anti-tumor and antibacterial properties.

Internal Uses

Calendula has been traditionally used internally to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as stomach upset and ulcers. Phyllis Balch states in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" that calendula is also useful for the treatment of low-grade fevers, toothaches and menstrual cramps. Other purported uses include the treatment of varicose veins, conjunctivitis, inflammatory disorders, muscle spasms, eczema and radiation therapy side effects. These uses are based on anecdotal reports, however, and not on scientific evidence.

Topical Uses

Today calendula is most popular as a topical herbal remedy. Calendula is thought to soothe the skin and enhance blood flow to the area that it is applied. As such, it is often used to promote healing of minor infections, as well as burns, cuts, bruises, wounds and rashes such as diaper rash. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that calendula has also been found to help prevent dermatitis in breast cancer patients during radiation. In addition, calendula is added to ear drops to treat ear infections, although few studies have been done to confirm the efficacy of calendula for this purpose.

Precautions

Topical application of calendula is considered safe and side-effect free, however, UMMC says it should not be applied to an open wound without doctor supervision. Topical and oral calendula may cause an allergic reaction, especially in individuals who are sensitive to the ragweed, daisy, chrysanthemum and aster family of plants. Also, calendula should not be used by pregnant or lactating women or by females who are trying to conceive. Oral calendula is generally considered safe, however it may interact with certain medications, and you should consult your health care practitioner before supplementing with calendula.