Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula was enormously popular in medieval Europe for treating blemishes, bedsores, and skin infections. Present day herbalists continue to use the plant extract in topical form for nflamed or damaged skin:poorly healing wounds and ulcers, bites, stings, burns (including sunburn), infectious sores such as herpes zoster (shingles), and varicose veins. Gargles and inses are used for mouth and throat inflammation. Calendula tea promotes sweating and lowers fever. The plant contains several beneficial chemicals, including flavonoid, a gelatinous ubstance called mucilage, an essential oil, and alcohols. While scientists are still determining which of these constituents does what, last year researchers in Japan isolated and  identified alcohol constituents from calendula flowers that showed marked anti-inflammatory activity. Calendula is sold in liquid forms (such as juice, concentrated drops and tinctures)and as an ingredient in herbal combination ointments, salves, lotions, and creams. It is also used to make homeopathic calendula remedies and an essential oil, both of which are used topically to treat skin irritations, burns, and scrapes. (An easy way to use the herb is to soak a gauze pad in calendula tincture and apply directly to the skin.)

In vitro studies have demonstrated that calendula can stimulate lymphocyte proliferation. While animal studies have indicated that calendula extracts may counter high lipid levels, roduce sedation, help treat hepatitis, and reduce signs of systemic inflammation when taken internally. Results of a study published in 2002 suggest that lowconcentrations of calendula may have chemoprotective properties.

THERAPEUTIC DAILY AMOUNT:

Ointments typically contain 2-5% calendula.

MAXIMUM SAFE LEVEL: Not established

Calendula has not been associated with toxicity or side effects.