Calendula, scientifically known as Calendula officinalis, is a perennial plant of the Asteraceae family that is distributed throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. It is known for its bright and beautiful flowers, which can be yellow, orange or golden. Calendula has been cultivated for a long time and is used for ornamental purposes as well as medicinal and culinary purposes.
The history of nevena is traced back to ancient civilizations. The plant was used by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans to treat various health problems. The Greek botanist and physician Dioscorides mentioned it in his work "De Materia Medica" around 200 AD. Calendula is also used in traditional Ayurveda and Chinese medicine.
The main active ingredient in calendula is califlaflone (calendulin), which is an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. The plant also contains flavonoids, carotenoids and essential oils that give marigold its medicinal properties. In medicine, calendula is used to treat wounds, pulled muscles, inflammatory skin conditions (such as acne, eczema, and insect bites), and itching. It can also be used to accelerate skin healing and as a means of maintaining healthy, soft skin. Calendula extract is used in a variety of cosmetic products such as creams, lotions, and face and body oils.
Growing marigolds is relatively easy. Marigold seeds can be sown directly outdoors in spring after the last frosts have passed. The distance between plants should be about 30 cm. The plant likes cool and moist conditions and needs moderate watering. It can also be grown in pots or containers.
Marigold blooms profusely in summer and autumn. The flowers can be harvested to use in making herbal teas or for essential oil extraction. The leaves of the plant can also be used to make tea.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is known for its many health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, antioxidant and beneficial effects on the skin. Calendula can be used both externally and internally, depending on the specific needs and recommendations of specialists. Here are some of the main benefits that are associated with the use of calendula:
Anti-inflammatory actionA: Calendula contains active ingredients that have anti-inflammatory properties. It can help with itching, inflamed skin conditions including acne, eczema and insect bites. It can be used both externally, when applying calendula creams or lotions, and internally, when using herbal teas or tinctures.
Healing of woundsA: Calendula extract has wound-healing properties and is used to quickly and effectively heal wounds, including insect bites and minor injuries. It stimulates the growth of new healthy tissue and helps to eliminate inflammation.
Antioxidant actionA: Calendula contains antioxidants that help to reduce oxidative stress in the body. They help fight free radicals and protect cells from damage. This can have a positive effect on skin, heart and immune system health.
Treatment of diHate problemsA: Calendula can be useful in the treatment of various respiratory problems. Calendula herbal tea can be used to relieve symptoms of cough, cold and sore throat.
Improve skin healthA: Calendula is used in the cosmetic industry for its beneficial effects on the skin. It helps to strengthen the skin barrier and keeps the skin hydrated and soft. Calendula is used in creams, lotions, face and body oils that can help reduce dryness, inflammation and skin irritations.
Healing properties of the herb Calendula officinalis are due to the variety of active ingredients, such as:
FlavonoidsA: Calendula contains various flavonoids such as quercetin, isorhamnetin and kaempferol. These antioxidants have anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic properties.
TerpenoidsA: Calendula contains terpenoids such as arnediol and arenedicin, which are associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.
Essential oilsA: The herb contains small amounts of essential oils that give marigold its characteristic aroma. These oils may have antibacterial properties and help with skin problems.
CarotenoidsA: Calendula is rich in carotenoids such as betacarotene, lutein and cryptoxanthin. They are strong antioxidants that support skin and vision health.
PolysaccharidesA: Calendula contains polysaccharides that help maintain skin and immune system health.
PhenylpropanoidsA: The herb contains phenylpropanoids, such as rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Calendula, although a safe herb, can cause some contraindications that need to be taken into account. Here are some of them:
Allergic reactionsA: Some people may be allergic to calendula or other plants in the Asteraceae family. Before using calendula, perform a sensitivity test by applying some of the product to a small area of skin and monitor for any reactions. If a rash, hypersensitivity or other unusual symptoms occur, stop using calendula and consult a health professional.
Pregnancy and breastfeedingA: The intake of calendula in large quantities during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully studied. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid its use or consult a doctor before using it.
Interactions with medicationsA: Calendula may interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) and some blood pressure control medications. If you are taking such medications, it is important to consult a health professional before using calendula.
When it comes to using the herb calendula, you can easily prepare these recipes at home:
Herbal teaA: Make a tea of dried neem blossoms by pouring 1-2 teaspoons with 240-300 ml of boiling water and allowing to steep for about 10-15 minutes. The tea can be used to wash the skin or consumed for internal use.
Herbal oils and ointmentsA: Prepare calendula oil by pouring dried flowers with unrefined oil (such as sunflower oil or almond oil) and allowing to infuse for several weeks. This oil can be used for skin massage or as an ingredient in stand-alone creams and balms.
Rosehip-raspberry oil: Mix sea buckthorn oil with calendula oil in a 1:1 ratio. This oil can be used to treat damaged or dry skin, to heal wounds quickly or as a soothing agent after sun exposure.
Herbal creams and lotionsA: Look for cosmetic products that contain calendula as a main ingredient. They can be helpful for hydrating the skin, relieving inflammatory conditions and promoting healthy skin healing.
Before using calendula or products that contain it, it is advisable to consult a health professional or phytotherapist.
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