Calendula, or marigold, one of our most popular garden plants has some great healing properties. More than often Calendula is grown in our gardens just because we love this colorful, cheerful flower. However, this is a plant with some amazing healing properties that we often neglect to mention. The Latin name is Calendula officinalis but it is more commonly known as pot marigold, common marigold or garden marigold. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is likely to have originated in southern Europe. It has been a popular plant for such a long time its origin has been lost in history.
Healing Properties of Calendula
We are just beginning to appreciate the healing properties of Calendula. It is a herb which is quickly becoming more and more popular as an alternative remedy and is now being included in many products. Both herbalists and medical doctors recommend Calendula to treat anything from acne to difficult to heal sores.
Calendula Treatment of Psoriasis and Eczema
Calendula salves and creams have long been used by herbalists as popular remedies for skin rashes, inflammations of the skin and the treatment of delicate skin. It is also known to help to treat eczema as well as Psoriasis. As an active ingredient in some hair shampoos, it can be used to treat dandruff and as an effective treatment in the battle against scalp based eczema.
Calendula As an Anti-Wrinkle Treatment
More recently Calendula has also been added to body lotions and face creams to combat dry skin, and as an effective anti-wrinkle treatment. Many nappy rash creams now also contain Calendula as it seldom causes side effects, and does not dry out the skin.It is also useful as a cream to apply to sore or cracked nipples when breastfeeding. Calendula is known for its antifungal properties and can help to treat thrush in a baby's mouth as well as thrush of the mother's nipple.
Teenage Acne and Calendula
Teenage acne, and the odd annoying hormonal spot, also responds well to an application of Calendula ointment. Amongst its many healing properties Calendula can enlist anti-septic qualities which are useful when it comes to treating a range of skin conditions.
Can Calendula Be Used Internally?
Calendula is not so well-known for its internal uses. Most commonly it is now being used in mouthwashes but it has in the past been a popular internal treatment in traditional folk medicine. A tea was made out of the flowers, and this was used to treat ulcers, colitis, swollen glands and inflammatory pelvic conditions. Now it is more seldom used as an internal treatment but some herbalists still use Calendula to treat a range of internal health problems, as it is known to have very few side effects.
Products based on Calendula can be found in most health food stores, and a Calendula cream is an excellent addition to any first aid kit. It is often used in combination with other healing herbs. More and more products containing Calendula extract are being launched as manufacturers of skin care products begin to appreciate this herb. This safe and effective but gentle herb deserves to be better known for its many healing properties.