Calendula Flower

Therapeutic Uses

• Bowel Diseases – Calendula reduces the inflammation that causes pain in these disorders. It reduces the general tension that can promote bowel problems, relaxing the nervous constriction of the digestive muscles to help the bowels.
• Conjunctivitis – Calendula washes are useful in treating chronic conjunctivitis. They are antibacterial and stimulate the growth of healthy tissue in the membranes surrounding the eye.
• Gastritis – Calendula prevents the hormonal reactions that produce swelling and inflammation in the stomach lining, specifically by acting on the inflammatory prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂). Calendula has a strong bactericidal effect that may counteract infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with both gastritis and peptic ulcers.
• Inflammation – In cells, calendula inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), a key enzyme mediating inflammation. Synthetic drugs that act as COX-2 inhibitors and targeted arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, and some cancers have been removed from the market by the FDA. Calendula may help in these conditions, but more human studies are needed.
• Mucous Membrane and Skin Disorders – Calendula is widely used as an additive to cosmetic skin creams. Used in these creams, it stimulates the production of collagen, filling in wrinkles. Calendula creams also hydrate winter-dried skin, relieve pain and inflammation caused by conditions such as mastitis and hemorrhoids, and alleviate vaginal itching caused by menopausal tissue changes. In addition, this herb has antibacterial action that allows it to prevent and treat various types of infection. Calendula creams are used to prevent skin damage from drying, insect bites, and sunburn. Used externally, calendula helps to soothe, heal, and protect a baby’s sensitive skin. Calendula washes kill Staphylococcus aureus, a common germ that infects abrasions, burns, and cuts. Used externally, calendula helps injured skin to rejuvenate, and may reduce skin pain and redness.

Medicinal Uses: *Acne *Beauty *Culinary/Kitchen *Cuts & Wounds *Dental/Oral Care *Eyes/Vision *Herbal Teas *Insect/flea Bites *Skin Care

Calendula Side Effects: Because of the cumulative nature of the very mild antibacterial toxins present in the herb, it is advisable to use calendula teas for no more than two weeks or until symptoms subside, whichever comes first. Wait six weeks before resuming the tea. Anyone allergic to members of the Aster/Compositae family such as ragweed and marigold should avoid calendula. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation.

Calendula Drug Interactions: When calendula is taken internally, it can increase the sedative effect of medications for anxiety and insomnia. It also may increase the activity of blood glucose-lowering drugs or insulin and may help decrease blood lipids and triglycerides. Consult your physician if you are taking any of these drugs before using calendula. Use caution while driving or operating machines if taking calendula and such medications at the same time.