The calendula (calendula officinalis) it is one of the best known plants for its dermatological properties. Used for thousands of years, it is known for its uses in both medicine and cosmetic products. The generic name calendula derives from the Latin calendulae which means “throughout the months”, which underlines the long flowering period that the plant has, and the specific name officinalis expresses its medicinal character.
It is especially useful for those who suffer constant skin irritations or for the care of sensitive skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory, soothing and protective characteristics; as well as for its high moisturizing and nourishing power.
Calendula properties
Calendula has a number of active principles what are you offering beneficial health effects. It has triterpenoids, which give it anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous properties; saponins, micronutrients, flavonoids and polysaccharides, which in addition to the two previous effects, also provide antioxidant and healing properties; lutein and beta-carotene, which protect bone, tooth and skin health.
What are the benefits of this plant
Both applied topically and consumed as an infusion, calendula is a very effective medicinal plant that can treat multiple conditions.
• Healing and antiseptic: Calendula helps to regenerate the skin and produce collagen. It is highly recommended for healing wounds or treating scars.
• Reduces inflammation: The powerful anti-inflammatory actives can be useful to control the inflammatory processes caused by chronic diseases. Calendula minimizes the symptoms of bone and joint diseases. It is also helpful in curing gingivitis and pharyngitis.
• Moisturizes the skin: It is widely used to contribute and maintain the health and hydration of the softest and finest skin, especially that of the diaper area. It is emollient and softening.
• Soothe sunburn: A cream or ointment made from this plant is ideal for reducing skin damage caused by the sun, as it accelerates the process of cell regeneration and the elimination of dead cells thanks to its rich content of carotenes and flavonoids.
• Face cleaner: An infusion with calendula can be used as a natural tonic, since it is an ideal plant to clean pores and excess oil.
• Helps fight tired eyesight: its antioxidant compounds control the negative action that free radicals produce in the eyes and strengthen visual health. In addition, its high concentration of beta-carotene (precursor of vitamin A) reduces visual stress and helps prevent diseases such as cataracts.
Calendula oil helps heal wounds and soothe the skin. (Getty)
How to use calendula
Generally, calendula flowers are used, although its leaves are also used. To create beauty treatments and health accessories, the plant is used both fresh and dried the same year. It can be applied in different ways: infused oil and cream or ointment.
Infusion
You can have a cup of infusion 3 times a day to treat inflammations of the digestive system. It can also be used as a mouthwash for mouth sores or gum inflammation. The dose is 1 teaspoon of the fresh or dried flower per cup of hot water.
Cream / ointment
It is used in this format to heal minor cuts, scrapes, eczema, inflamed skin, chapped hands, chilblains, cracked nipples due to breastfeeding, minor burns and acne. It is also used in fungal infections such as herpes, canker sores or athlete’s foot.
Oil
Calendula essential oil is used externally to heal wounds, treat stretch marks, psoriasis or dandruff. You can prepare this tonic by mixing a handful of dried flowers with a cup of almond oil.
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