CALENDULA OFFICINALIS

COMMON NAME : Marigold

FAMILY  :                Asteraceae  (Daisy family)

HABITAT / GROWING :

Uncertain origin, possibly North Africa or India. In Italy it is called “fiore d’ogni mese” as it is said to be in bloom

on the calends of every month.

PARTS USED :  Flowers and leaves.

TRADITIONAL & MODERN USE:

One of the most important traditional healing remedies. Used to treat infectious illness. Petals used to flavour

salads and soups and especially fish – “poor man’s saffron”. Herb is associated with the Sun – used to treat the

heart and conditions caused by heat. Also used to treat external wounds and lacerations. Prevents suppuration

of pus and helps wounds heal cleanly.  Treats fungal conditions and swollen lymph nodes.

Modern uses : chronic skin conditions and lymphatic congestion. Affinity for the female reproductive system :

infections and inflammations, oestrogenic properties and stimulant action. It regulates menstruation and treats congestion in the reproductive system. Bitter properties stimulate digestion.

Used externally for healing wounds and reducing scarring. Astringent properties – stems bleeding and used to

treat haemorrhoids and ulcers. Stimulates the immune system. Antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal.

MAIN  CONSTITUENTS:

·        Rich in saponins

·        Flavonoids

·        Bitters

·        Volatile oil

·        Resin

·        Mucilage

The water soluble components are antiviral and more immune-stimulating

The resin has greater wound-healing, antifungal and antibacterial properties.