Calendula officinalis is a member of the Asteraceae family that produces beautiful edible bright daisy-like yellow-orange flowers, which have been used medicinally since at least the 12th century. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it is commonly used topically to reduce inflammation and treat skin conditions and promote wound healing.
This annual herb is native to the Mediterranean but is now naturalized all over Europe and grown ornamentally around the world. Its Latin name is derived from the Latin calendae, referring to its long blooming season; in some places it blooms nearly year round. It was known as “poor man’s saffron” in medieval Europe, as its vibrant flower petals were used to season and color foods, especially soup and butter, as well as dye hair. Herbalists and traditional practitioners of Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and North American indigenous cultures have all used calendula for a variety of medicinal purposes for centuries. Nowadays it’s most popular for treating skin conditions, but historically it has been used to soothe upset stomachs, provide protection and keep evil spirits away, comfort the heart, and even settle legal matters.
According to Ayurvedic healing principles, calendula is energetically cooling with a bitter and pungent taste, while according to TCM, it’s energetically neutral and drying. It’s astrologically associated with the sun and the fire element, and it was said that picking the flowers under the noonday sun would strengthen and comfort the heart.
Calendula contains powerful antioxidants that protect cells from damage from free radicals, including lutein, lycopene, and beta-carotene. These compounds may help heal burns, bruises, cuts, and minor infections caused by these wounds, possibly by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the affected area and helping the body grow new tissue. Calendula has also been used for improving skin hydration and firmness, especially when infused in a carrier oil or balms, lotions, and creams.
Calendula flowers can also be used in soothing tea blends, tinctures, and other herbal formulations for calming a variety of ailments. It can be a helpful digestive ally, stimulates menstrual flow and the lymphatic system, and can even support dental health.
In the kitchen, calendula flowers can add beautiful, delightful decoration to salads, cakes, or atop dishes as an earthy, festive garnish.
To make a tasty tea infusion, add two teaspoons of dried flowers to a tea infuser or teapot, pour hot water over the herb and allow it to steep for 10 minutes, and strain.
Caution: People with allergies to plants in the aster family such as ragweed or chrysanthemums may have an allergic reaction to calendula.