The Calendula herb is an herb I recently learned about for my family. Turns out, I’ve been sleeping on this herb. Did I know about it? Yes. Did I know that Calendula had healing properties? Also yes. Did I know what they all were? Nope. But, I’m happy I finally did some research and got to better understand the Calendula herb, and would like to share with you the healing properties as well as the side effects of this potent little flower. And hopefully it’ll be as useful for you as it has been for me.
Learning About The Calendula Herb
My family has some health problems that have been passed down and recently another family member has been suffering significantly because of it. And since I’m working on becoming a registered herbalist I was asked if there was anything that could help. And so began my research through herbs, books, research papers, and testimonies which led me to the wonderful herb of Calendula. An herb, I have now decided, will be grown in my garden and I’d like to share what I found out about it with you.
What Is Calendula?
Calendula is actually a flower. It’s a type of marigold known as a pot marigold. It’s been used for medicine since the 12th century and is native to Mediterranean countries, but is now an ornamental plant grown throughout the world in people’s gardens.
The Calendula plant is rather hearty and can survive in most soils, but is typically found in:
- The USA
- Western Asia
- Europe
Calendula belongs to the same family as ragweed, daisies, and chrysanthemum. Its yellow and orange petals are used for medicine.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Calendula?
1. Heal Wounds
Calendula promotes blood flow. Why does this matter? Better blood flow and proper circulation allows blood and oxygen to get through the body better ensuring that everything is working properly which in turn promotes better healing.
Better circulation aside, Calendula is also known for it’s soothing properties which can help clean and promote tissue growth in injuries like:
- Bug Bites
- Blisters
- Minor Cuts
- Cold Sores
- Bruises
2. Assist With Digestive Troubles
Calendula soothes outside troubles, and it can also soothe troubles on the inside. Calendula is great for things like:
- IBS
- Heartburn
- Ulcers
These conditions tend to cause injuries on the inside and Calendula can help repair the gut wall which will relieve discomfort and inflammatory problems later on (leaky gut is the worst).
3. Boost The Immune System
Did you know Calendula can be used to help kick leftover infections? If you’re suffering from the flu, cold, or general crud this lovely flower can help you get rid of it faster since it strengthens the immune system. Calendula is antimicrobial which means it kills off icky bacteria that can make you sick.
4. Great For The Skin
Do you suffer from eczema, dermatitis, or dandruff? Calendula may be able to help. Or if you suffer from dry itchy skin in general pot marigold can help. Calendula promotes the production of collagen and aids in soothing dry bothered skin. It’s even great for rashes like diaper rash and cradle cap. Plus, it’s gentle enough that it can be used on people with sensitive skin.
5. Reduces Swelling/Inflammation
Besides being great for the skin, did you know that Calendula can also help you with inflammation and swelling? Calendula contains anti-inflammatory flavonoids and retinoids…but what do those do? Flavonoids activate your antioxidant pathways which help with inflammation. Flavonoids also has anticancer and antiviral properties. Retinoids work like vitamin A. They both include inhibition of inflammation.
6. Promotes Circulation In The Lymphatic System
Calendula can help cleanse and nourish your lymphatic system. The Calendula herb is a lymph-node decongestant that helps people with lymphadenoma and lymphadenitis. Most people combine Calendula with other herbs such as:
- Burdock
- Red Clover
- Chickweed
- Oregon Grape
To create an amazing lymphatic tincture or tea. This healing property actually is what caused me to do a deep dive in the Calendula herb to begin with as I have several family members who suffer from lymphedema.
7. Slows Wrinkles
The Calendula herb helps slow wrinkles! The antioxidants, as well as the anti-inflammatory properties, help protect against wrinkles which is caused by oxidative stress in our skin cells. Oxidative stress is when there is an imbalance of antioxidants and damaging atoms and this plays a big role in wrinkles and a number of illnesses. So, the Calendula herb can help prevent this and is more of a budget-friendly option then harsh chemical ridden creams at the store.
8. Reduces Scaring
When treating wounds with the Calendula herb, it can reduce scaring. Calendula increases blood flow which helps the wound heal quickly and promotes new healthy tissue which in turn means less scarring.
The Side Effects Of The Calendula Herb
9. Allergic Reaction
For those who have an allergy to ragweed or marigolds, this is not the herb for you as it can cause a mild to severe allergic reaction.
10. Do Not Take If Pregnant Or Breastfeeding
Do not take Calendula if pregnant as there is a chance it can cause a miscarriage. There isn’t enough information about the effects of Calendula when breast-feeding so it’s better to avoid it unless you talk to your doctor.
11. Mild Sedative
Calendula is considered a mild sedative which can cause slowed breathing and drowsiness. Which in itself isn’t bad, but may be an issue if you’re at work, taking other medication with similar effects, etc.
Interactions With Medicine and The Calendula Herb
11. Do Not Take Calendula With Sedatives or CNS Depressants
Calendula is a mild sedative and can slow breathing and make you sleepy. Some medications that are sedatives do the same thing. Taking Calendula with them can cause you to be overly sleepy and can cause breathing problems.
12. Do Not Take The Calendula Herb If You Are On Medication For High Blood Pressure
Calendula may interact with antihypertensive drugs. High doses of Calendula can lower blood pressure which is an issue if you’re on a medication that is already lowering it.
13. Do Not Take The Calendula Herb If You Are On Medications To Treat Diabetes
And finally, do not take Calendula if you are on medicine for diabetes. Calendula can cause decreased insulin and effect those with hypoglycemia because it lowers blood glucose.
What All Is The Calendula Herb Used For?
Although we talked about the major things that the Calendula herb is used for there are still minor things that it can be used for. So, let’s look at the completed list:
- Wound care
- Skin Issues
- Rashes
- Stings and Insect Bites
- Skin Protection
- Skin Moisturizing
- Earaches
- Lymphatic Circulation
- Minor Infections
- Chronic Infections
- Menstrual Cramps
- Digestive Issues
- Inflammation
Amazing, right? Calendula is a great herb to keep around. And it’s easy to grow as it survives in most soil. Because it only grows in the warmer seasons, you will want to keep some potted in the winter as it won’t survive the cold weather.
What Does Calendula Taste Like?
If you’ve never tasted Calendula, you may be wondering what it tastes like. It tastes very mild, slightly sweet, as well as slightly bitter. Apparently, as it dries the flavor becomes much more intense.
What Does Calendula Smell Like?
Calendula has a very pleasant smell. And what exactly does that mean? Well, people describe it as “sweet” and “delicate” with a very “herby” smell. People also consider it a gentle and uplifting smell. And people should be aware the smell can change dependent on it’s form as it’s said the essential oil isn’t as pleasant as the flower itself.
The Herb Calendula…
This herb isn’t a miracle herb, there is no such thing, but like Mullein, I feel like it has a lot of benefits with very few side effects which is always a plus. It also helps your body function and heal the way it is meant to. And so, I hope this information about Calendula will help you as much as it has helped me.
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Have you tried the Calendula herb? What do you use it for?
