Pull or stab or cut or burn,
She will ever yet return.
Marigolds by Robert Graves
Calendula officinalis, most widely known as marigold, is a magnificent and powerful plant. Native of the Mediterranean area, it has been cultivated and revered by many cultures for centuries. The name calendula derives from the Latin calends, because the Romans believed that it flowered on the first day of every month. The Romans enjoyed the simple, yellow-orange beauty of the marigold in their gardens all year round. They also used the flowers for cooking and healing, hence the name officinalis, which refers to plants that are employed for medicinal purposes. It is also referred to as “pot marigold” because it can be used for culinary purposes.
Internal Uses of Calendula
A few millennia later, calendula grows all around the world and it is still used for the same purposes. It can be added to salads and stews to add taste and colour. It can also be taken internally as a medicinal herbal tea to manage indigestion and digestive irritation.
Calendula Tea
- Pour about 250 ml of boiling water over a tablespoon of dried calendula flowers and let it steep for about 20 minutes.
- Strain the infusion and enjoy. You may also want to add some stevia for sweetness.
- Keep refrigerated for up to 48 hours
External Uses of Calendula
Nowadays, calendula is mostly used topically. At Herbalitea we use calendula to make creams, tinctures, and poultices, due to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. It is rich in flavonoids, anti-oxidants that protect cells from free radicals. Its healing powers can be applied to cuts, wounds, stings, burns, and ulcers because it helps increase blood flow and oxygen to wounds, helping them grow new tissue and promote faster healing. Calendula is also a powerful hydrating agent for the skin and it is therefore used to prevent dermatitis and diaper rash and to treat hemorrhoids.
Herbalitea Calendula Cream Ingredients
- Calendula
- Rose petals
- Lavender
- Shea butter
- Vitamin E
- Non pasteurized honey
- Various oils
For more information regarding the creams please email us at [email protected]
