Calendula (Calendula Officinalis) | A Herbal Monograph

**Disclaimer: The information provided in this Materia Medica is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While herbal remedies have a long history of traditional use, please consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbs, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have any existing health conditions. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Use herbs responsibly and with a loving awareness of your own health needs.

Materia Medica: Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

A beautiful note on calendula from Rosemary Gladstar:

The radiant yellow flowers of calendula have been celebrated as reflections of the sun. In warm climates, calendula blooms throughout the year, the flowers opening and closing with the sun, a trait that didn't go unnoticed by the ancients. It's no coincidence that the Latin word for calendar, calendae, shares a root with calendula, the plant believed to bloom at the beginning of each month, making it a natural indicator of time.

When calendula is in season, add it's golden rays to salads, soups, and casseroles to brighten any meal. - Rosemary Gladstar.

Botanical Name:

Calendula officinalis

Common Names:

Calendula, Pot Marigold, Garden Marigold

Plant Family:

Asteraceae (Daisy family)

Parts Used:

Flowers (fresh or dried), whole flower head

Energetics:

Cooling, Drying

Taste:

Slightly bitter, resinous, subtly peppery

Historical Uses & Folklore:

Calendula has long been revered as a healing plant for both the skin and spirit. In ancient cultures, its golden blossoms were seen as symbols of the sun, joy, and renewal. Medieval herbalists used calendula in salves, wound washes, and tinctures to treat cuts, burns, and infections. It was also a common addition to broths and stews — not just for colour, but for its protective, health-giving properties.

In traditional European folklore, calendula was associated with love and protection. Petals were scattered under beds for prophetic dreams and carried in pockets to court affection. It was said to bloom on the first day of every month — hence its connection to the word "calendar."

Scientific Studies:

Modern research supports calendula’s traditional uses, particularly in dermatology. Studies have shown calendula’s effectiveness in promoting wound healing, reducing inflammation, and combating microbial infections.

A 2013 study published in Wounds journal found calendula ointment significantly accelerated healing in patients with venous leg ulcers. Another study in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice concluded that calendula was more effective than standard topical treatments in reducing radiation-induced dermatitis in breast cancer patients.

Its wound-healing benefits are attributed to flavonoids, triterpenoids, and polysaccharides that support tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation.

Traditional Uses:

Calendula has traditionally been used to:

• Support skin healing for cuts, scrapes, burns, and rashes

• Reduce inflammation and redness

• Soothe eczema and dermatitis

• Promote lymphatic drainage

• Support oral health (e.g. mouth rinses for gingivitis)

• Act as a mild antifungal and antimicrobial agent

• Bring colour and gentle support to food and teas

Herbal Actions:

• Vulnerary (promotes wound healing)

• Anti-inflammatory

• Lymphatic

• Antimicrobial

• Astringent

• Emmenagogue (stimulates menstrual flow — use with caution)

• Antifungal

Preparation & Applications:

• Infusion (Tea): Steep 1–2 tsp of dried petals in hot water for 10–15 minutes.

• Tincture: Commonly prepared at 1:5 in 40% alcohol; used internally or externally (e.g. diluted as a wash).

• Herbal Oils & Salves: Infuse petals in a carrier oil and use in salves for skin healing.

• Baths & Compresses: Calendula tea can be added to baths or used as a warm compress for irritated skin or tired eyes.

• Rinses: Calendula tea makes an excellent mouthwash for sore gums or after dental work.

Pairing Herbs:

Calendula blends beautifully with:

• Plantain – for wound and skin repair

• Yarrow – to enhance antimicrobial and astringent qualities

• Lavender – for calming and skin-soothing properties

• Chamomile – for anti-inflammatory and gentle digestive support

• Cleavers – for lymphatic movement and detoxification

Precautions & Considerations:

Calendula is generally very safe for external and internal use. However, those allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as daisies or ragweed) should exercise caution. Calendula may act as a mild emmenagogue, so consult a practitioner before use during pregnancy.

Growing & Harvesting:

Calendula is an easy-to-grow annual that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It will often self-seed and bloom throughout much of the year in temperate climates. Harvest the flowers when they are fully open — ideally in the morning after the dew has dried. Pinch regularly to encourage more blooms.

Storage:

Dry calendula flowers thoroughly and store them in a sealed jar in a cool, dark place. Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight. Properly dried petals should retain their bright orange or yellow colour and vibrant scent.