Calendula

A lot of times this is called a Pot Marigold. They are not in the same family. They both will soothe skin irritations but Calendula has been used for centuries for everything from Heart problems to various internal inflammations. The flowers are edible and can be dried and used as a seasoning. Sometimes called the poor-mans Saffron. They are however more bitter than Saffron but will add a pretty yellow color to rice dishes. 

Calendula can be used in many ways depending on what the need is; tea, infused oils, slave, compress or poultice.

 

Skin Issues- Leaves and flowers are used for many skin irritations like sunburn,rashes, diaper rash, chicken pox, herpes sores, burns,athlete's foot, thrush,cradle crap, ringworm,skin ulcers, hemorrhoids, and makes a great face cream. It will treat muscle spasms and helps in wound healing. Calendula increases blood and oxygen availability to the skin encouraging healing. A wash can treat pink eye and inflammation of the mucus membranes of the eye.

 

The leaves and flowers are anti-bacterial, anti-fungal,anti-microbial, anti-viral, and stimulates the immune system.

 

If you are allergic to ragweed, daisy, marigolds or chrysanthemums you may have an allergic reaction. If you are taking a prescription sedative Calendula may increase the effects of it. Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing.

 

Anti-Spasmodic

Calendula relaxes muscles and can prevent spasms. A tea can treat abdominal cramping caused by constipation and menstrual cramps. It can also relieve body aches and pains due to muscle spasms

 

Stomach and Intestinal Diseases- Calendula tea will heal a variety of gastrointestinal problems. It soothes the inflammation, infections, and irritations while healing the underlying problems. It will work on colitis, GERD,esophageal, peptic ulcer and IBD.

 

Immune System and Lymphatic System-The astringent and antiseptic properties help fight off infections and viruses. It will also reduce congestion and swelling in the lymph glands. It stimulates the immune system and the lymphatic system to help with healing of swollen nodes, tonsillitis and helps prevent infections.

 

Menstruation and PMS-Calendula is effective in easing painful side effects of menstruation, helps induce menses, relieves cramping and improves blood flow. Some early studies also show it help with hot flashes.

 

Dental Care-Because of its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties it can treat gingivitis, plaque, and cavities.

 

Inhibits Cancer-It has anti-inflammatory properties that aid the body in fight cancer as well as irritations caused by cancer treatments. It activates the lymphatic system to help kill off the cancer cells. It also with help with skin irritations from radiation.

Detoxification-Calendula extract removes toxins and will help clear the liver and gallbladder. If you address the toxins in your liver and gallbladder it usually helps clear skin conditions such as eczema and acne.