Calendula...Marigold by Dancing Fingers

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

The flower petals of the calendula plant (Calendula officinalis), or marigold, have been used for medicinal purposes since at least the 12th century. Calendula is native to Mediterranean countries but is now
grown as an ornamental plant throughout the world. It is important to note,
however, that not all household plants called marigold are members of the
calendula family.

Calendula contains high amounts of flavonoids, plant-based antioxidants that
protect the body against cell-damaging free radicals. Researchers are not sure
what active ingredients in calendula are responsible for its healing
properties, but it appears to have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and
antibacterial effects.

Traditionally, calendula has been used to treat stomach upset and ulcers, as
well relieve menstrual cramps, but there is no scientific evidence that
calendula is effective in these cases. Today, topical applications of calendula
are more common, especially in Germany.
Calendula has been shown to speed healing of wounds (possibly because it
increases blood flow to the affected area), and the dried petals of the
calendula plant are used in tinctures, ointments, and washes for the healing of
burns, bruises, and cuts, as well as the minor infections they cause. More
recently, calendula has been shown to help prevent dermatitis in breast cancer
patients during radiation.
Plant Description:

Calendula is an annual plant that thrives in almost any soil but can typically
be found in Europe, Western Asia, and the United States. It belongs to the
same family as daisies, chrysanthemums, and ragweed. Its branching stems grow
to a height of 30 - 60 cm, and it blooms from early spring until frost. The
orange-yellow petals of the flowerheads are used medicinally.
Parts Used:

The dried petals of the calendula plant are used for medicinal purposes.
Medicinal Uses and Indications:

Except in extremely dilute homeopathic preparations, calendula is not generally
taken orally.

Burns, cuts, and bruises

Calendula tinctures, ointments, and washes are commonly used topically to speed
the healing of burns, bruises, and cuts, as well as the minor infections they
cause. Calendula cream is also used to treat hemorrhoids. Animal studies show
that calendula does appear to speed wound healing, possibly by increasing blood
flow to the wounded area and by helping the body produce collagen proteins,
which are used to heal skin and connective tissue. Although no scientific
studies in humans support these uses, applying calendula topically is
considered safe.

Professional homeopaths often recommend ointments containing calendula to heal
first-degree burns and sunburns.

Dermatitis

Preliminary evidence suggests that calendula may help prevent dermatitis in
breast cancer patients during radiation. In one study of 254 patients, women
who used calendula lotion were less likely to grade II or higher dermatitis
compared to those who used trolamine lotion.

Ear infection (otitis media)

Ear drops containing calendula are sometimes used to treat ear infections in
children. A few scientific studies have shown no side effects, although the
studies are not of sufficient quality to determine whether calendula is truly
effective.
Available Forms:

Fresh or dried calendula petals are available in tinctures, liquid extracts,
infusions, ointments, and creams.

Calendula products should always be protected from light and moisture, and
should not be used after 3 years of storage.
How to Take It:

Pediatric

Use only topical and homeopathic preparations for children.

Calendula can be used externally in creams and ointments in dosages of 2 - 5 g
calendula per 100 g cream or ointment.

For homeopathic dosages, consult a licensed homeopath.

Adult

* Infusion: 1 tsp (5 - 10 g) dried florets in 8 oz (250 mL) water; steep 10 -
15 minutes; drink 2 - 3 cups per day
* Fluid extract (1:1 in 40% alcohol): 0.5 - 1.0 mL 3 times per day
* Tincture (1:5 in 90% alcohol): 5 - 10 drops (1 - 2 mL) 3 times per day
* Ointment: 2 - 5% calendula; apply 3 - 4 times per day as needed

Precautions:

The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and
treating disease. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and can interact
with other herbs, supplements, or medications. For these reasons, you should
take herbs with care, under the supervision of a health care provider.

Calendula is generally considered safe for topical application. It should not
be applied to an open wound without a doctor's supervision. People who are
sensitive to plants in the daisy or aster family, including chrysanthemums and
ragweed, may also have an allergic reaction to calendula (usually a skin rash).

Calendula is also known to affect the menstrual cycle and should not be used
during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Theoretically, calendula may affect
conception when taken by a man or woman, so couples trying to get pregnant
should not use calendula.
Possible Interactions:

There are no known scientific reports of interactions between calendula and
conventional or herbal medications. Theoretically, calendula may interact with
sedative and antihypertensive (blood pressure) drugs, so talk to your doctor
before combing these drugs with calendula.
Alternative Names:

Calendula officinalis; Garden marigold; Pot marigold

Calendula
Magickal: Calendula, also known as Pot Marigold, is believed to be useful for
prophetic dreams, protection, respect, and psychic powers, and to be of benefit
when legal matters arise. For protection, hang garlands of Calendula over entry
doors to prevent evil from entering. Scatter petals under the bed for prophetic
dreams and for protection while sleeping. Medicinal: Calendula flowers and
leaves can be made into an ointment or powder for a variety of common skin
ailments, including cuts, scrapes, abrasions, scalds, blisters, and acne. For
bee stings, rub the fresh flowers directly on the sting to relieve the pain. a
Calendula rinse made of unsweetened tea brings out the highlights in blonde and
brunette hair. Also try running bath water over a mesh bag full of Calendula
flowers for a refreshing and stimulating bath that is good for the skin.