Calendula, a sunny, petalled flower, is one of nature's most medicinal plants. Although commonly called Pot Marigold, it is not the same as common garden marigolds. Calendula belongs to the daisy family and shows beautiful gold or orange petals. These flowers love cooler weather and will continue blooming through the late fall. I’m still collecting flowers!
She is an edible flower with a slightly peppery flavor that is high in Vitamins D, E & B. The fresh petals are used as a garnish, seasoning or as a traditional cheese colorant! The leaves are bitter, yet edible, and are added to leafy salads. But it’s medicinally that calendula really shines.
Topically, it is an exceptional anti-inflammatory and helps with pain, bruising, and inflammation. Additionally, it helps to relieve itching and inflammation from dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and bug bites. We use calendula as part of the base of our Trauma Oil and Dandelion Salve.
The flower is also infused in oil and blended with plantain and chamomile in our Plantain Salve to help with chapped, dry skin as well as in our Paw Wax for our fur babies during the winter.
Internally, it is warming and helps with lymph movement and digestive issues. Our Move It Tea uses calendula as well as other warming herbs (cinnamon, ginger, lemon verbena and lavender) to help encourage lymph movement. . This herbal, non-caffeinated blend also aids in immune support and helps rid the body of cellular waste.
Although herbal medicine is always a wonderful and natural way to help our bodies heal, we always have to be cautious and research any potential contraindications with medical conditions or prescription medications. Calendula should not be used if there is an allergy to ragweed, daisies or marigolds as well as flowers/plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, as it could cause an allergic reaction.
Avoid during pregnancy as it could cause bleeding. Always talk to your physician or pharmacist to be sure that there are no potential complications with any of the medications that you are taking. As it may cause drowsiness, it’s best to not use it if you are taking sedative medications or going in for surgery.
Calendula is one of my favorite medicinal herbs and I love the many ways it helps heal our families and now yours as well.
Be Well My Blessed Ones ♥️