Calendula Officinalis: Complete Medicinal Profile
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is a flowering plant that belongs to the daisy family and is native to the Mediterranean region.
The plant's flowers, leaves, and stalks contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it a popular herbal remedy for various health issues.
Calendula officinalis has been traditionally used to treat wounds, skin conditions, such as eczema and acne, and to soothe digestive issues due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The plant can be prepared into herbal teas, salves, creams, and ointments, and its medicinal properties can also be extracted into oils and tinctures for topical or internal use.
Study of the Day
According to Farmakologiia i toksikologiia, Calendula officinalis has medicinal purposes in treating ulcers, exhibiting an antiulcerous action in experimental models.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Calendula officinalis.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Calendula officinalis is used to promote overall health and well-being, with numerous benefits ranging from soothing skin irritations and wound healing to reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
This versatile plant has been shown to be effective in treating various health issues, including eczema, acne, and rosacea, while also supporting immune function and fighting off infections.
The health benefits of calendula officinalis also extend to reducing symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, as well as providing relief from menstrual cramps and other symptoms associated with PMS.
Additionally, calendula officinalis has been used to support eye health, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even help to prevent the spread of cancer cells.
The health benefits of Calendula officinalis are listed below.
- Antimicrobial properties: Calendula officinalis has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial properties, making it effective against a range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and can be used to treat wounds, cuts, and skin infections.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: The plant contains triterpenoid esters and sesquiterpenes that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the body.
- Skin healing and regeneration: Calendula officinalis is known to promote skin healing and regeneration, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin elasticity.
- Antioxidant properties: The plant has antioxidant properties that help protect the body from free radicals, which can cause cell damage and contribute to aging and disease.
- Anti-cancer properties: Some studies have suggested that calendula officinalis may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm this.
- Wound healing and tissue repair: Calendula officinalis can be used to promote wound healing and tissue repair, making it effective for treating cuts, scrapes, and burns.
- Digestive soothing: The plant has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (ibs), and reduce inflammation in the gut.
Here are the best health benefits of Calendula officinalis.
Actions
Calendula officinalis has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties, which provide therapeutic actions on the integumentary system, particularly in wound healing and skin protection.
Its antispasmodic and vulnerary actions also affect the integumentary system, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
Additionally, calendula officinalis exhibits anti-arthritic and anti-rheumatic properties, affecting the musculoskeletal system and providing relief from joint pain and inflammation.
Furthermore, its antifungal and antiviral properties also demonstrate its therapeutic actions on the integumentary and lymphatic systems, offering protection against infections and promoting immune system balance.
The therapeutic actions of Calendula officinalis are listed below.
- Antiseptic: Calendula officinalis has antiseptic properties, making it effective in treating wounds, cuts, and abrasions by preventing the growth of bacteria and promoting healing.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and pain associated with injuries, burns, and skin conditions.
- Antimicrobial: Calendula officinalis has antimicrobial properties, making it effective in treating infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
- Emollient: The plant has emollient properties, helping to soothe and moisturize dry, irritated skin, making it an effective treatment for eczema, acne, and other skin conditions.
- Wound healing: Calendula officinalis promotes wound healing by stimulating collagen synthesis, improving tissue strength, and increasing blood flow to the affected area.
- Antioxidant: The plant has antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and skin conditions.
- Skin soothing: Calendula officinalis has skin-soothing properties, making it effective in treating skin irritations, such as sunburn, redness, and itching.
Constituents
Calendula officinalis has been found to contain a diverse array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Tannins, like gallic acid and ellagic acid, present in the plant, exhibit antimicrobial and astringent activities, while triterpenoids, including ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, demonstrate anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
The plant also contains sesquiterpenes, like calendulol and isocalendulol, which display antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and sinapic acid, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Additionally, the plant's bioactive constituents include phytosterols, such as beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol, which may possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
The bioactive constituents of Calendula officinalis are listed below.
- Saponins: A type of bioactive compound that has been found in calendula officinalis, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds that have been found in calendula officinalis, which may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Carotenoids: A class of yellow, orange, and red pigments that have been found in calendula officinalis, which may have antioxidant properties.
- Phenolic acids: A type of bioactive compound that has been found in calendula officinalis, which may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Triterpenoids: A class of bioactive compounds that have been found in calendula officinalis, which may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Essential oils: A mixture of volatile compounds that have been found in the leaves and flowers of calendula officinalis, which may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Tannins: A type of bioactive compound that has been found in calendula officinalis, which may have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Calendula officinalis are its flowers, leaves, and roots.
The flowers, rich in carotenoids and flavonoids, are typically used to create topical creams, ointments, and salves for wound healing, skin irritations, and inflammatory conditions such as eczema and acne.
The leaves and stems, which contain a higher concentration of saponins, are often used to make teas and infusions for their antimicrobial and antifungal properties, providing relief from digestive issues and respiratory problems like bronchitis and coughs.
The roots, rich in sesquiterpenes, are less commonly used but still utilized to create remedies for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, often applied externally to treat skin conditions and wounds.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Calendula officinalis and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Flowers | Sunburn, chapped skin, wound healing |
| Leaves | Digestive issues, skin irritations, fever reduction |
| Root | Liver issues, digestive problems, insect bites |
Preparations
Calendula officinalis most common herbal preparations are infusions, tinctures, salves, and creams.
Infusions, also known as teas, are often used to treat digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, as well as to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of colds and flu.
Calendula tinctures are commonly used topically to accelerate wound healing, reduce inflammation, and soothe skin irritations like acne, eczema, and sunburn, while also being used internally to aid in digestion and relieve menstrual cramps.
Calendula salves and creams are typically used to treat minor burns, cuts, and scrapes, as well as to soothe and moisturize dry skin, chapped lips, and irritated eyes.
The herbal preparations of Calendula officinalis are listed below.
- Calendula infusion: A tea made by steeping dried calendula flowers in hot water, often used to soothe skin irritations and wounds.
- Calendula tincture: A liquid extract made by steeping calendula flowers in a solvent such as ethanol or glycerin, often used to treat skin issues and promote wound healing.
- Calendula salve: A topical ointment made by infusing calendula flowers in a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, often used to soothe and protect skin.
- Calendula cream: A topical cream made by infusing calendula flowers in a carrier oil and then mixing with a moisturizing base, often used to soothe and protect skin.
- Calendula oil: A carrier oil infused with calendula flowers, often used as a topical treatment for skin irritations and wounds.
- Calendula glycerite: A liquid extract made by infusing calendula flowers in glycerin, often used as a soothing and protective treatment for skin irritations.
- Calendula poultice: A topical treatment made by applying crushed calendula flowers directly to the skin, often used to soothe and protect skin irritations and wounds.
Side Effects
Calendula officinalis side effects are typically mild and rare, but may include skin irritation, allergic reactions, and contact dermatitis in some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin.
People with allergies, eczema, or other skin conditions are more likely to experience these side effects, such as redness, itching, swelling, and blistering.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women may also be at a higher risk of experiencing side effects like nausea, headaches, and dizziness due to the potential estrogenic activity of calendula.
Additionally, individuals taking medications such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, or blood pressure medications should exercise caution when using calendula products, as they may interact with these medications and cause side effects like bruising, bleeding, or changes in blood sugar levels.
The possible side effects of Calendula officinalis are listed below.
- Skin irritation: Calendula officinalis can cause skin irritation in some individuals, especially if used in high concentrations or without proper dilution.
- Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to calendula, which can cause an allergic reaction, including symptoms such as hives, itching, and swelling.
- Digestive issues: Ingesting calendula can cause digestive issues, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, in some individuals.
- Interactions with medications: Calendula may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and blood pressure medications, which can lead to adverse effects.
- Eye irritation: Calendula extracts can cause eye irritation, including redness, itching, and tearing, if not handled properly.
- Photosensitivity: Calendula may cause photosensitivity in some individuals, leading to skin reactions when exposed to sunlight.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding concerns: There is limited research on the safety of calendula during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it's recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using it.