February 14, 2023

H E R B A L // G L O S S A R Y: Calendula officinalis – THE HEALER

Calendula or Marigold as its also known, is a unique and powerful healer in which can be used therapeutically for both internal and external ailments.

The medicinal properties extracted from the brightly coloured golden flower petals have been used as a traditional remedy and also in modern times in creams, ointments and tinctures.

The petals are not only pretty to look at, but they are also brimming with healing and soothing properties which have commanded the respect of ancient eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, Indian and Arabic cultures.

Calendula’s vast range of medicinal qualities promote healing both internally and topically due to its key active constituents including antioxidants like triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolic acids, and it also contains coumarins which are antimicrobial.

Additionally, Calendula boasts anti-inflammatory compounds, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα). Inflammation is a normal bodily response, however chronic inflammation is linked to many health conditions including obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes.

Several studies have demonstrated positive effects in conditions such as peptic ulcer, lymphatic congestion, acne, painful menstrual cramps, gastro-intestinal inflammation, and all types of infections such as parasitic, fungal, and viral. As it is wound healing and immunomodulating, it also targets the underlying causes of many chronic skin conditions such as Psoriasis and eczema and even acne.

Topically it has shown to promote and accelerate wound healing in clinical trials, anything from healing mouth ulcers when made into a mouth wash, to helping to heal minor burns and varicose veins. It is a popular ingredient for treating nappy rash as all the mummas out there will know, and has also been known to have antifungal and antimicrobial properties when applied to skin so its especially great for fungal nappy rash and acne.

Action: Vulnerary, lymphatic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, antispasmodic.

Indications: Peptic ulcers, acne, dermatitis, eczema, enlarged lymph glands, spasmodic dysmenorrhea, and topically for mouth ulcers, inflamed skin, wounds, minor burns, nappy rash, varicose veins, and insect bites.

Pregnancy / Breastfeeding safe: Yes

Included in blends:

I AM A GODDESS  https://www.littlewildlingco.com/products/i-am-a-goddess

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Written by Leonie Sutherland