Calendula is an
extremely effective herb for the treatment of skin problems and can be used
wherever there is inflammation of the skin, whether due to infection or physical
damage; for example, ulcerations, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, anal fissures,
mastitis, cysts, impetigo or other inflamed lesions. It is also specifically
indicated in enlarged or inflamed lymphatic nodes.
Official
Latin Name: Calendula
officinalis
| Calendula is also known by
the names Marigold, Pot Marigold, Mary Bud, Mary Gowles, Holigold, and Golds.
Calendula grows as a common garden plant throughout North America and Europe.
The golden-orange or yellow flowers of Calendula have been used as medicine for
centuries. The part of this plant used medicinally are the flowers. Calendula
flowers were believed to be useful in reducing inflammation, wound healing, and
as an antiseptic. Historically, Calendula was used to treat various skin
diseases, ranging from skin ulcerations to eczema. Internally, the soothing
effects of Calendula were used for stomach ulcers and inflammation. A sterile
tea of this herb was also applied in cases of conjunctivitis. Calendula has been
found to be antispasmodic, aperient, cholagogue, diaphoretic, vulnerary. |
|
Product Recommendations |
|
Each capsule provides 500 mg.  |
|
The
primary chemical constituents of this herb include saponins, carotenoids,
flavonoids, mucilage, bitter principle, phytosterols, and polysaccharides resin.
The flavonoids, found in high amounts in Calendula, account for much of its
anti-inflammatory activity; triterpene saponins may also be important. Calendula
also contains carotenoids. Investigations into anti-cancer and anti-viral
actions of Calendula are continuing, but at this time there is insufficient
evidence to recommend clinical use of Calendula for cancer. There is, however,
evidence suggesting use of Calendula for some viral infections. The constituents
responsible for these actions are not entirely clear. As a cholagogue, this herb
helps relieve gallbladder problems and to aid digestion. As an emmenagogue,
Calendula can be of benefit in the treatment of delayed menstruation. The
hormonal influences are likely to stem from the sterol fraction. An infusion of
the flowers can be used for such gastrointestinal problems as ulcers, stomach
cramps, colitis, and diarrhea. It is also useful taken internally for fever,
boils, abscesses, and to prevent recurrent vomiting.
The fresh juice of the
herb or flowers can substitute for the infusion. For external use, a good salve
for wounds can be made from the dried flowers or leaves, or from the juice
pressed out of the fresh flowers. There is an old saying: "Where Calendula
is, no pus will form." The salve is also good for insect bites, bruises,
sprains, pulled muscles, sores, and boils. An infusion of Calendula can be used
to soothe watery, irritated eyes, and for relief in bronchial complaints. It is
also used frequently in the treatment of liver disorders. Additionally, it is
thought to induce perspiration in case of fever. Calendula has been shown to
promote blood clotting and to reduce capillary effusion. Recent clinical studies
have shown that Calendula flower extracts lower blood pressure and have sedative
effects. In 1955, an Australian patent was issued for the use of Calendula in
the treatment of burns in humans. Although it contains no tannins, Calendula is
locally astringent, due to its resin component.
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