GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
Calendula was enormously popular in medieval Europe for treating blemishes, bedsores, and
skin infections. Present day herbalists continue to use the
plant extract in topical form for nflamed or damaged
skin:poorly healing wounds and ulcers, bites, stings, burns (including sunburn), infectious sores
such as herpes zoster (shingles), and varicose veins.
Gargles and inses are used for mouth and throat
inflammation. Calendula tea promotes sweating and lowers
fever. The plant contains several beneficial chemicals,
including flavonoid, a gelatinous ubstance called mucilage, an essential oil, and alcohols. While scientists are still determining which of these
constituents does what, last year researchers in Japan
isolated and identified alcohol constituents from
calendula flowers that showed marked anti-inflammatory
activity. Calendula is sold in liquid forms (such as juice, concentrated drops and tinctures)and
as an ingredient in herbal combination ointments, salves,
lotions, and creams. It is also used to make homeopathic
calendula remedies and an essential oil, both of
which are used topically to treat skin irritations,
burns, and scrapes. (An easy way to use
the herb is to soak a gauze pad in calendula tincture and
apply directly to the skin.)
ROLE FOR ANTI-AGING:
In vitro studies have demonstrated that calendula
can stimulate lymphocyte proliferation. While animal studies have indicated that calendula
extracts may counter high lipid levels, roduce sedation,
help treat hepatitis, and reduce signs of systemic
inflammation when taken internally. Results of a
study published in 2002 suggest that lowconcentrations
of calendula may have chemoprotective
properties.
THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:
Ointments typically contain 2-5% calendula.
MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established
SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS:
Calendula has not been associated with toxicity
or side effects.
