Liquid Gold
I love calendula, and chances are you do too if you use a vast array of good quality skincare products that feature calendula as an ingredient. I’ve been using calendula oils and creams (made by my mother ever since I can remember) for years and have seen first hand the benefits that this flower provides. Also known as Calendula Officinalis or Pot Marigold, Calendula has been used for centuries for its diverse gardening, culinary and medical benefits.
What is calendula?
Native to the Mediterranean region of Europe, Calendula is a herbaceous plant that is believed to bloom on the first day of every month, which is where it gets its name from “kalendae” in Latin meaning little calendar. Calendula flowers are a bright and vibrant orange or gold with a robust herbaceous aroma. They are a type of marigold and look very similar to other common marigolds as well. Calendula plants have bright petals, usually yellow or orange, growing 1-2 feet tall. In addition to being a culinary ingredient, Calendula is best known for its medicinal uses.
Marigolds vs Calendula
Calendula is a type of marigold. There are two genera of marigold, one being taget and the other being calendula. Taget marigolds, also known as French marigolds, are not edible and do not sure the same sorts of versatile benefits as calendula. They are, however, also just as beautiful and have a similar vibrant colour. The best way to distinguish the two is by the petals. French marigolds have more of a layered petal structure than calendula, creating a more fluffy bloom in comparison to the pot marigold. It is essential to know for sure that you are using Calendula marigold, not its ornamental relative, before using or ingesting it.
French Marigold
Properties of Calendula:
Anti-Inflammatory - Capabilities to reduce inflammation.
Lymphagogue– The ability to move lymph.
Vulnerary– Used in the healing of wounds.
Anti-Fungal - Active against fungi and the ability to prevent fungal growth.
Anti-Bacterial - Active against bacteria and the ability to prevent bacterial growth.
Antiseptic - Prevents the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.
Benefits of calendula:
Long used in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Calendula is a medicinal plant with antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Each Calendula petal contains five compounds - Oleanic Acid, Lupeol, Quercetin, α Amyrin and β Amyrin. These five active compounds benefit in many ways, below I’ve outlined the five most common benefits when calendula is used topically -
Anti-Inflammatory and Protection Against Cancer
Calendula contains flavonoids and linoleum acid, which are both potent compounds that fight against inflammation, and inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines. A study published in BMC Cancer found that the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating properties of calendula could potentially be used as a remedy for cancer treatment. The study showed that calendula inhibited cancer cell proliferation and increased lymphocyte production. The roots and flower extracts have shown positive effects on skin cancer, breast cancer, and leukaemia cells. The active molecules identified were polysaccharides, proteins, fatty acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, triterpenoids and saponins. These molecules inhibit the cell division in cancerous cells to prevent spreading (metastasis). Calendula also induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in these cells to ensure they don’t grow.
Assists With Acne-Prone Skin
Calendula’s powerful antibacterial properties have shown to assist with acne breakouts by clearing the bacteria in the pores that lead to them. A study found that calendula extract is useful in treating and preventing acne vulgaris.
Heals Skin Irritation, Wounds And Prevents Scarring
Calendula is especially helpful when it comes to skin and wound healing. A study in 2013 showed that calendula ointment sped up episiotomy recover time, such as improvements in redness, swelling and bruising. Calendula also assists with wound healing by stimulating tissue and collagen production. Although calendula is a gentle herb, its powerful healing capabilities can be used for insect bites, bruises, blisters, cuts and cold sores. Topically application of the oil can keep wounds clean while promoting new tissue to grow. One of the prominent benefits of calendula is its ability to reduce scarring when used to treat wounds. The Calendula properties that benefit wound healing apply to the scarring process as well. Calendula increases blood flow to the injury, promotes a speedy and healthy healing process, free of infection, and encourages the growth of healthy new tissue. The phytochemical content within calendulas such as alkaloids, triterpenoids, flavonoids and carotenoids, have shown to trap free radicals.
Soothes Dry Skin
As a natural humectant, calendula can provide relief from dry skin. Its soothing and calming properties assist with many types of skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and dandruff. By promoting the production of the essential protein collagen, calendula sustains a smooth and hydrated complexion.
Prevents Ageing
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in calendula have been found to protect against oxidative stress in human cells significantly. Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the ageing process, as well as the development of several illnesses. This protection that calendula provides can assist in slowing the development of wrinkles. Calendula can also be used as a sunscreen. A 2012 study found that calendula oil had SPF properties when used as a cream mixture.
With wellness,
Aleksandar
Photography by Aleksandar Zarić for Welluvia
