Herbs N Weeds

Get To Know: Calendula

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How to Identify Calendula
Key Features
FeatureDescriptionPlant TypeAnnual herbHeight12–24 inches (30–60 cm) tallLeavesLance-shaped, slightly sticky, pale green, alternately arrangedFlowersBright yellow to orange, daisy-like with multiple petals (ray florets), bloom spring to fallScentMild, resinous, herbalStemSoft and slightly hairySeedsCurved, crescent moon-shaped, spiny
Habitat:
  • Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean; cultivated globally.
  • Grows easily in gardens, pots, or wildflower patches.
    • Historical Uses of Calendula
    Ancient and Medieval Medicine
    • Used by Romans and Greeks for treating wounds, bruises, and digestive issues.
    • The Doctrine of Signatures associated its golden color with the sun and healing power.
      • Christian Symbolism & Folk Lore
      • Known as “Mary’s Gold” in reference to the Virgin Mary.
      • Used in Catholic and pagan rituals, especially during feasts and festivals.
      • Calendula flowers were scattered on doorsteps or added to soups to ward off evil and bring cheer.
        • Apothecaries & Herbalists
        • By the Middle Ages, it became a go-to remedy for inflammatory conditions, ulcers, and skin infections.
        • Calendula petals were used to color cheese and butter, and were sometimes called “poor man’s saffron.”

          • You can get a one pound bag of Calendula from Starwest Botanicals through our Amazon Affiliate here.

          Medicinal Benefits (Modern Herbal Uses)

          Calendula is widely used today for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antifungal, and vulnerary (wound-healing) actions.

          1. Wound & Skin Healing
          • Speeds healing of cuts, burns, bruises, rashes, and surgical incisions.
          • Useful for eczema, acne, diaper rash, cracked skin, and radiation burns.
          • Stimulates collagen production and reduces scarring.
            • 2. Anti-inflammatory
            • Effective internally and topically for reducing inflammation in the skin, digestive tract, and oral cavity.
              • 3. Antiseptic & Antifungal
              • Used for fungal infections (like athlete’s foot or candida) and minor bacterial infections.
                • 4. Digestive & Lymphatic Support
                • Helps soothe gastritis, ulcers, and leaky gut.
                • Supports the lymphatic system, helping to reduce swollen glands and promote detoxification.
                  • 5. Menstrual Regulation
                  • Mild emmenagogue: can help stimulate delayed menstruation and ease menstrual cramps.
                    • How to Use Calendula
                    Parts Used:
                    • Petals (ray florets) are most commonly used (fresh or dried).
                    • Resinous green base is strongest in medicinal compounds.
                      • Common Preparations:
                      FormUseTea/InfusionInternal inflammation, ulcers, lymphatic supportTinctureConcentrated for lymph, digestion, immune healthInfused oilBase for skin salves, balms, baby careSalves & creamsTopical healing of wounds, rashes, eczemaCompress or washApplied to wounds, eyes (as eyewash), or infectionsGargle/mouthwashFor oral ulcers, sore throat, gingivitis
                      Calendula Skin-Healing Oil (Basic Recipe)

                      Ingredients:

                      • 1 cup dried calendula petals
                      • 1 cup carrier oil (olive, jojoba, or sweet almond)

                        • Instructions:

                        1. Place petals in a clean jar and cover with oil.
                        2. Let infuse for 4–6 weeks in a warm place (or heat gently for 2–3 hours for quicker method).
                        3. Strain and store in a dark glass bottle.
                          Use alone or as the base for salves and lotions.
                          4. Safety & Precautions
                          • Very safe for most people.
                          • Avoid internal use during pregnancy without professional guidance (mild emmenagogue).
                          • May cause allergic reactions in those sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (e.g., ragweed, chamomile).
                          • Always use organically grown calendula for medicinal use to avoid pesticide contamination.
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                              Herbs N WeedsBy Luke