HERBS (naturopathy): Pot Marigold (Calendula Officinalis)
Calendula flowers are edible (dried flowers are used like a replacement of saffron, but fresh flowers can also be used to garnish salads) and have various medicinal uses (anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, astringent, soothing), and are rich in carotenoizi, anti-oxidants, saponins, resins, etc.
Medicinal uses: Calendula tinctures (25-90% alcohol extracts): used as a gargle in sore throat (laryngitis, tonsillitis), coughs, lung problems, thrush (which is caused by excessive growth of Candida albicans), acne (caused by Streptoccocus aureus), dental abscess, otitis. It is also used in cosmetics (creams, soaps, shampoos, lotions), salves, ointments: ointments and balms as being concentrated with the plant's active substances are very effective on wound healing (including hard to heal wounds, like leg ulcers), diaper rash, rashes, dermal growths, infections, inflammations, insect bites, frostbite, ringworms, wound healing after surgery. Cosmetic use results in rejuvenating skin, reducing of scars, acne fighting. Calendula teas: used as a digestive ailment/aid, fever, cramps, spasms of the digestive and uro-genital systems, stimulates bile flow/liver cleaning and it was also found to be utero-tonic. Prevents gastric lesions and inhibits the increase of serum glucose levels upon glucose intake (good for diabetics). This tea also makes a good eye wash for pink-eye and viral eye infections. Calendula oil: can be applied concentrated on the skin and used in the ears (a few drops). Can also be used on salads (when prepared in olive oil).
Caution: do not use on deep, sever wounds, stop use if irritation, redness occurs.
Products with Calendula: A variety of recipes and formulations can be found for calendula online and in naturopathy books, and calendula products can be purchased from specialty stores (dried flowers, seeds so you can grow your own flowers, organic oils, ointments, salves, hydrosols, cosmetics, tinctures,teas, capsules, naturopathic combinations).
