AKA: Marigold, Gold Bloom, Holligold, Garden Marigold, Pot Marigold, Marybud, Maravilla,  Aklelmulk, Atunjagh, Chin Chan Hua, Calendula officinalis

The Calendula, or pot marigold, is a herbaceous perennial that belongs to the daisy family.  It is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and blooms quickly making it a popular garden plant. The leaves are 5-18 cm long, arranged spirally, simple and a little bit hairy.  The flowers are 3 to 7 cm across and range in color from pastel yellow to deep orange.  The plant has a spicy aroma and the petals are considered edible, used to help add color to salads.

Benefits and Uses

• Reduces Inflammation
• Promotes Healing
• Anti-Fungal agent
• Digestion Aid
• Menopause symptoms
• Anti-Viral

Calendula is considered to be a great anti-inflammatory and it is used in a number of different skin problems including ulcerations, eczema, juvenile acne, diaper rash, sun burns and hemorrhoids. It is also used to treat conjunctivitis and other inflammations of the eye, helping to reduce swelling and redness.

Pot Marigold is also thought to promote healing of wounds and scars.  Studies have shown that the plant increases blood flow to the affected area, which encourages the production of collagen proteins which helps the skin to heal. The plant also contains flavonoids which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties which help fight off infection and sooth the wound. It is used as a mouthwash and gargle to sooth a sore throat and it  is thought to help heal both external and internal ulcerations.

Marigold is also utilized for it anti-fungal properties, being a common remedy for athletes foot, ringworm and candida.  The tincture can also help heal cold sores.  When taken internally the plant is also thought to help with stomach spasms, bringing relief to women who are suffering menstrual cramping and people suffering from indigestion.

Research is currently being done one the Calendula’s reported immune system boosting properties. The plant contains polysaccharides which possess a high molecular weight and initial research has indicated that the plant has a potential therapeutic activity against HIV. It is also being researched for its use in post radiation treatment for cancer.  One study indicated that women who had used calendula ointment after undergoing radiation therapy for breast cancer, reported less pain after the treatment.

Side Effects

If you have allergic reactions to plants from the daisy family such as daises, chrysanthemums or ragweed, you might also be sensitive to calendula. Calendula has shown a tightening effect on the uterus of animals, and while no miscarriages have ever been reported, women who are pregnant are advised to avoid taking the plant orally. There have also been studies which suggest that calendula is toxic to sperm and may disrupt fertilization, therefore couples who are trying to have a child should not take calendula.  Caution should be used for breastfeeding mothers and small children until more research is done.

coming soon....