What is Calendula?
Calendula (Calendula officinalis), commonly known as pot marigold, is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region that has been used medicinally for centuries. It should not be confused with common garden marigolds (Tagetes species).
Active Compounds:
Flavonoids: Quercetin, rutin, narcissin (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory)
Triterpenoids: Faradiol, calenduladiol (anti-inflammatory)
Carotenoids: Beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene (antioxidant)
Essential oils: Alpha-cadinol, beta-caryophyllene
Saponins: Wound healing properties
Polysaccharides: Immune-modulating effects
Primary Functions & Benefits
Traditional Uses:
Wound healing: Promotes tissue regeneration and closure
Skin inflammation: Reduces redness, swelling, and irritation
Antimicrobial: Fights bacteria, fungi, and some viruses
Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation internally and externally
Lymphatic support: Helps move lymphatic fluid
Evidence-Based Benefits:
Accelerates healing of minor wounds, cuts, and scrapes
Reduces inflammation in skin conditions (eczema, dermatitis)
Soothes burns (including radiation burns)
Relieves diaper rash and infant skin irritation
May help heal mouth sores and gingivitis
Reduces inflammation in gastric ulcers
Antifungal properties for yeast infections
May ease menstrual cramps and regulate cycles
Supports immune function
Antioxidant protection
Recommended Dosages
Internal Use:
Tea/Infusion:
1-2 teaspoons dried flowers per cup
Steep 10-15 minutes
2-3 cups daily
Tincture (1:5 ratio):
1-4 ml (20-80 drops)
2-3 times daily
Capsules/Tablets:
300-500 mg standardized extract
2-3 times daily
External Use:
Ointment/Salve: Apply 2-5% calendula concentration 2-3 times daily
Cream/Gel: Apply thin layer to affected area 2-4 times daily
Compress: Steep 2 tablespoons flowers in 2 cups water, apply soaked cloth
Oil infusion: Apply as needed for massage or skin care
Mouthwash: Dilute tincture (1:10) or use cooled tea, rinse 2-3 times daily
Forms Available
Topical Applications:
Creams and lotions
Ointments and salves
Oils (infused)
Gels
Sprays
Lip balms
Internal Use:
Dried flowers (for tea)
Tinctures/liquid extracts
Capsules/tablets
Glycerites (alcohol-free extracts)
Fresh flowers (in food)
Other Forms:
Suppositories
Eye drops (specially prepared)
Mouthwash/gargle
Compresses and poultices
How to Use Calendula
External Application:
Wounds: Clean area, apply calendula ointment/cream, cover if needed
Skin conditions: Apply thin layer 2-4 times daily to affected areas
Burns: Cool burn first, then gently apply calendula gel or cream
Diaper rash: Apply cream at each diaper change
Massage: Use calendula-infused oil for muscle tension
Internal Use:
Tea: Drink between meals or before bedtime
Tincture: Add to water or juice, take with or without food
Capsules: Take with meals to reduce potential stomach upset
Best Timing:
Topical: Apply as needed throughout the day
Internal: Morning and evening, or spread throughout the day
Consistency: Use regularly for 2-4 weeks for best results
Synergistic Herbs & Supplements
Combines Well With:
For Wound Healing:
Comfrey (topically)
Plantain
Vitamin C and zinc (internal support)
Aloe vera
For Skin Inflammation:
Chamomile
Lavender essential oil
Chickweed
Omega-3 fatty acids
For Digestive Issues:
Marshmallow root
Slippery elm
Chamomile
Licorice root
For Immune Support:
Echinacea
Elderberry
Vitamin D
Probiotics
For Menstrual Support:
Vitex (chasteberry)
Cramp bark
Ginger
Magnesium
Interactions & What NOT to Take
Potential Drug Interactions:
Sedative Medications: Calendula may enhance sedative effects
Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium)
Sleep medications (Ambien)
Barbiturates
Blood Pressure Medications: May lower blood pressure further
ACE inhibitors
Beta-blockers
Diuretics
Diabetes Medications: May affect blood sugar levels
Insulin
Metformin
Sulfonylureas
Cholesterol Medications: Theoretical interaction
Statins
Herb Interactions:
Avoid Combining With:
Other sedative herbs in high doses (valerian, kava, passionflower)
Herbs that lower blood pressure significantly
Use Caution With:
Other topical preparations on same area (may dilute effectiveness)
Multiple internal anti-inflammatory herbs (monitor for excessive effects)
Who Should Use Calendula
Ideal Candidates:
Topical Use:
People with minor wounds, cuts, or scrapes
Individuals with eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
Those with dry, irritated, or inflamed skin
Parents of infants with diaper rash
People with acne or fungal skin infections
Those recovering from minor burns
Individuals with chapped lips or dry skin
Cancer patients with radiation-induced dermatitis
Internal Use:
People with gastric inflammation or ulcers
Those with mouth sores or gingivitis
Individuals seeking immune support
Women with menstrual irregularities or cramps
Those with lymphatic congestion
People looking for gentle anti-inflammatory support
Who Should AVOID or Use Caution
Contraindications:
Pregnancy: Avoid internal use (may stimulate menstruation)
Topical use generally considered safe
Consult healthcare provider first
Breastfeeding: Insufficient safety data for internal use
Topical use likely safe, avoid on nipples before feeding
Scheduled Surgery: Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery
May enhance sedative effects of anesthesia
Allergy to Asteraceae Family: Avoid if allergic to
Ragweed
Daisies
Chrysanthemums
Marigolds
Other related plants
Use Caution:
Children:
Topical use generally safe
Internal use: consult pediatrician, adjust dosage by weight
Sedative Use: May increase drowsiness
Low Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure further
Diabetes: Monitor blood sugar closely
Upcoming Procedures: Avoid internal use before diagnostic procedures
Deficiency Symptoms
Not Applicable: Calendula is not an essential nutrient, so there are no deficiency symptoms. It is used therapeutically for specific conditions rather than to prevent deficiency.
Toxicity Symptoms
Calendula is generally considered very safe with a high safety profile. Toxicity is rare.
Possible Adverse Effects:
Internal Use (uncommon):
Mild sedation or drowsiness
Gastrointestinal upset
Allergic reactions (if sensitive to Asteraceae family)
Slightly lowered blood pressure
External Use (rare):
Contact dermatitis
Skin irritation (in sensitive individuals)
Allergic rash
Overdose Concerns:
No established toxic dose
Excessive internal use may cause drowsiness
Very large amounts may cause nausea
Safety Note: Calendula has been used safely for centuries with minimal reported adverse effects when used appropriately.
Special Considerations
Pregnancy & Lactation:
Topical use: Generally considered safe
Internal use during pregnancy: Avoid (traditional emmenagogue)
Breastfeeding: Limited data; topical use likely safe
Quality Considerations:
Organic sources: Preferable to avoid pesticide residues
Proper identification: Ensure true Calendula officinalis
Fresh flowers: Bright orange/yellow color indicates quality
Storage: Keep dried flowers in airtight container away from light
Application Tips:
For Best Results:
Clean affected area before applying topically
Use consistently for at least 1-2 weeks
For chronic conditions, may take 4-6 weeks to see full benefits
Patch test on small area first if you have sensitive skin
Signs of Allergic Reaction:
Increased redness or itching
Rash or hives
Swelling
Difficulty breathing (rare, seek immediate help)
Growing Your Own:
Easy to grow in most climates
Flowers can be harvested and dried for personal use
Blooms repeatedly throughout growing season
Harvest when flowers are fully open
Evidence & Research
Well-Supported Uses:
Wound healing and tissue repair (moderate evidence)
Anti-inflammatory effects (good evidence)
Antimicrobial properties (laboratory studies)
Radiation dermatitis (some clinical evidence)
Traditional Uses Needing More Research:
Gastric ulcer healing
Menstrual regulation
Immune system enhancement
Anti-cancer properties (preliminary only)
Safety Profile:
Extensive historical use with minimal adverse reports
Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for topical use
More research needed on long-term internal use
Summary & Key Takeaways
Calendula is a versatile, gentle herb with excellent safety profile, primarily used for skin healing and inflammation. Its topical applications are well-established and widely accepted, while internal use has traditional support with emerging research.
Bottom Line: Calendula excels as a topical remedy for skin conditions, wounds, and inflammation. It's safe for most people including children (topically) and has minimal side effects. Avoid internal use during pregnancy, and patch test if you have plant allergies. Quality matters - choose organic products from reputable sources.
Key Advantages:
Excellent safety profile
Multi-purpose applications
Gentle enough for babies and elderly
Can be used long-term
Available in many convenient forms
When to Seek Professional Help:
Wounds show signs of infection
Skin conditions worsen despite use
Allergic reaction occurs
Considering internal use with medications
Pregnant or breastfeeding and want to use internally