Alternative Beauty: Calendula- The Healing Flower
John Beith, a UK author writes all about the healing power of calendula and its traditional uses. Plus there are some GREAT calendula recipes and links at the end pf the article!
Calendula, also known as Pot Marigold, is native to the Mediterranean. The plant can grow to a height of 2 feet or more and can be identified by its flowers, which are a golden-orange colour. In medieval times the plant was grown in many monastery gardens throughout Europe, where the flower was collected to make a salve or ointment. Primarily it was used to clean and heal wounds and stop infections. Modern research has confirmed that Calendula does help wounds heal quickly, but this versatile flower can also be used to treat other ailments.
Today you don’t need to collect the flower to make a salve or ointment. Calendula is widely available at pharmacies or health stores in various forms, and is one of the best treatments for any localised skin problem. Calendula is considered to be a useful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, and any inflammation of the skin due to infection or physical damage, like bruising, can be effectively treated using the plant. This is thought to be due to the high concentrations of soluble flavanoids and carotenoids. Carotenoids are vital for immune functions, as well as giving benefit in other areas like vision and skin growth.
Most of the over-the-counter preparations that are available use only the heads or petals of the Wildroots.com! flower and are water and/or alcohol based. Research has shown that these preparations are just as effective as using the whole flower. A Brazilian study conducted in the mid-nineties reported success with alcohol extracts from Calendula in treating burns, lesions, sunburn, and ulcers. The report also recommended Calendula in particular for its treatment of ulcers resulting from severe varicose veins.
A tube of ointment is an ideal addition to your first-aid cabinet at home, due to its versatility. It is an effective treatment of minor burns and scalds, helps heal cuts, grazes and bruises, and can also be used as an antiseptic to treat insect bites and stings.
Gargling or rinsing several times a day with Calendula tea can help ease the symptoms of a sore throat and mouth ulcers. The tea can also be used to ease digestive inflammation and may be useful in the treatment of gall bladder problems, digestive complaints, like indigestion, or IBS (irritable Bowel Syndrome. You can also ease painful period pains by drinking the tea 2-3 times daily. To make the tea Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 or 2 tsp of dried Calendula petals. Steep for 10 minutes and then strain.
Calendula is definitely versatile, and as well as being effective in helping treat a wide range of ailments, its petals are edible and can be used in cooking and in salads.