Calendula Flower (Marigold)

Calendula officinalis

Description: An annual plant which grows about 30 to 50 centimeters high. The plant has a strong, unpleasant smell. Each stem has a 5 to 7 cm composite, orange-yellow flower.

Composition: The dried flower heads contain triterpene glycosides, aglycones, carotenoids and essential oils.

Properties: The flowers are antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral. Promote wound healing. Antiinflammatory.

Use: Inflammation of oral and pharyngeal mucosa (mouth and throat). Topical on poorly healing wounds and burns.

Folk Uses: Externally used for varicosis, phlebitis, skin changes, wounds, eczema, acne and as part of treatment for dry skin, bee stings. Internally for inflammatory conditions of internal organs, gastrointestinal ulcers, toothache, eye inflammation.

Side Effects: None known.

Cautions: Potential sensitization through frequent skin contact with the drug.

Administration: Available as tinctures, liquid extracts and infusions. A tincture or ointment can be used externally. The tincture (1:9) can be prepared using a 20% alcohol/water mixture. The drug should be protected from light and moisture.