About Calendula
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a vibrant flowering herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. Beloved for its cheerful golden blooms, Calendula has a long history of use in herbal medicine, culinary dishes, and even cosmetics. It’s a hardy annual that thrives in sunny gardens, making it a favorite among herbalists and gardeners alike.
The name “Calendula” comes from the Latin word “calendae,” meaning “little calendar,” as it blooms continuously throughout the year in mild climates.
Energetics and Key Actions
Energetics: Cooling and drying.
Key Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, wound-healing, lymphatic tonic, liver support, gentle detoxifier, skin soother.
Traditional and Modern Uses
In traditional medicine, Calendula has been used for centuries to heal wounds, soothe irritated skin, and promote digestive health. Ancient Greeks and Romans used Calendula as a treatment for skin ailments and to flavor foods. In medieval Europe, it was added to broths to ward off illness and incorporated into rituals for protection.
Modern herbalists continue to rely on Calendula for:
- Healing cuts, scrapes, and burns.
- Soothing eczema, rashes, and diaper rash.
- Supporting lymphatic drainage and reducing swelling.
- Improving digestion and soothing gastric inflammation.
- Regulating menstrual cycles and easing cramps.
Ways to Use Calendula
Calendula can be used in a variety of forms, including teas, tinctures, infused oils, salves, and poultices. Here are some practical ways to incorporate it into your routine:
1. Medicinal Tea: Steep 4-6 tablespoons of dried herb (6-8 tbsp for fresh). Pour boiling water over the herbs, fill the jar and place a cover on top. Let steep 30-45 minutes minimum. Overnight for a stronger brew.Drink 1-3 cups daily to reduce inflammation, support digestion, and boost immunity. Keep leftovers in fridge for up to 48 hours.
2. Infused Oil: Soak dried petals in a carrier oil (like olive or avocado oil) for 4-6 weeks. Use the oil as a base for healing salves or as a skin moisturizer.
3. Calendula Salve: Combine infused Calendula oil with local beeswax for a natural salve to heal wounds and soothe dry, cracked skin.
4. Flower Bath: Add a handful of petals to warm bath water to soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and relax the body.
5. Poultice: Mash fresh or re-hydrated petals into a paste and apply directly to insect bites, minor wounds, or irritated skin.
Contraindications
Calendula is generally safe, but it should be avoided during pregnancy and by individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family, such as ragweed, daisies, or chrysanthemums.
Calendula in the Garden
Calendula is a gardener’s best friend! It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies while repelling pests such as aphids and nematodes. It pairs well with tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans and helps improve soil health when used as a cover crop. Plus, its bright flowers make any garden bed pop with color.
Culinary Uses
Calendula petals are edible and can be used fresh or dried in culinary dishes. Sprinkle the petals into salads for a pop of color, use them as a garnish for soups, or steep them into broth for added flavor. They’ve even been used as a natural food dye, earning the nickname “poor man’s saffron.”
Where to Buy Seeds and Tools
Start growing your own Calendula today!
Buy Calendula seeds here.
Want to preserve your harvest? Check out this Harvest Right Freeze Dryer for long-term storage.
Here are some essential tools to grow and harvest Calendula:
