Calendula, which is also known as pot marigold, belongs to the same species as marigold. Aside from being an attractive addition to a garden, the flowers of this plant are also used to make medicine as it can help treat various health issues. They can be used in the form of oil, compress, tea, tincture, creams or gel.
Nutritional Facts About Calendula
Calendula flowers contain high amounts of antioxidants (flavonoids and carotenoids), fatty acids (such as linoleic and calendric), and lutein and beta-carotene (vitamin A carotenoids). They also have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-viral properties.
Health Benefits Of Calendula
Helps Reduce Inflammation
The flower petals of this plant possess anti-inflammatory properties that help treat and lower down inflammation. Experts have found that it can help treat ulcerative colitis (UC), an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers (sores) in your digestive tract.
Helps Improve Oral Health
Extract from calendula flowers possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help kill harmful bacteria in order to protect our mouth from cavities, gingivitis, and other problems. It has been used in oral care products such as mouthwashes and toothpaste.
A mouthwash made of calendula extract significantly reduces gingivitis while the plant extract can treat canker sores, aphthous ulcers (stomatitis), and sore throat.
Helps Treat Wounds, Burns, And Scars
Calendula contains phytochemicals that trap the free radicals in the body and accelerate the process of healing of wounds and burns (thermal and sun). Some of these beneficial components are alkaloids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids. They work by controlling the levels of nitric oxide and cytokines, compounds that promote inflammation.
Helps Manage Cramps And Aids Menstruation
Present in calendula is anti-spasmodic properties that are helpful in reducing cramping related to menstruation and treating other types of spasmodic conditions as well.
Moreover, calendula can help relax muscles due to the presence of flavonoids. This helps promote blood circulation and ease menstruation as well as induce the menstruation cycle.
Helps Boost Eye Health
Thanks to the antioxidants present in calendula. They help improve vision and boost eye health. It has beta-carotene that prevents macular degeneration and cataract.
May Help Prevent Cancer
Studies revealed that calendula contains anti-tumor properties that have positive results in cancer management. As compared to the normal cancer treatment, the extract does not pose any toxic side effects.
Moreover, calendula induces programmed cell death (apoptosis). The roots and flower extracts have shown positive effects on skin cancer (melanoma), leukemia cells, and breast cancer, and leukemia cells.
Helps Treat Diaper Rashes
Diaper rash is commonly observed in infants, children, and adults wearing diapers. These are painful skin eruptions that occur in areas covered by the diaper. Medications based on calendula and aloe vera have also shown promising results against this condition. Thanks to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of the herb.
Different Ways To Consume Calendula
- Chop petals of the flowers and add to salads.
- Use as a flavor enhancer in soups, rice, etc.
- Prepare a tea by filling a cup of fresh blossoms and pour 1 cup boiling water over it. Cover and steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain out flowers using a sieve. Drink or use as needed.
- Dried petals can be added to soups and cakes
- Dried petals can be used for making an omelet.
