Remedies Using Calendula Flower

Calendula flower or pot marigold is one of the best herbs for treating skin problems and inflammations. Calendula officinalis have been used since ancient times as a medicinal herb to treat wounds, burns, all kinds of skin problems, abdominal cramps and constipation. It was also used to eliminate toxins from the body.

Marigold flowers contain saponins which produce the anti inflammatory properties. The flowers also have anti tumor and anti genotoxic properties. Clinical trials done on mice found that it is has a cytotoxic compound and was able to stop damage to DNA and destroy tumor cells. Calendula extract also has anti viral properties.

Calendula oil which is extracted from calendula seeds contains calendic acid. This acid which is only found in calendula is an omega-6 fatty acid and is used as an antiseptic. It has the ability to reduce inflammation and heal wounds and burns. A study found that calendic acid has anti cancer activity and has high potency to fight against colon cancer cells.

Among other active compounds found in calendula officinalis are carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, resins and essential oils. Lutein and zeaxanthin provide support for eye and vision health and help lower the risk of cataract and macular degeneration.

If you have acne, blisters, burns, cracked skin, psoriasis, cuts, open wound and scrapes, applying calendula ointment topically would promote healing. The calendula extract will help protect and moisturize the wound, skin irritation and inflammation.

Calendula cream is effective in treating diaper rash and cradle cap. The cream is also one of the best natural moisturizer especially for people with sensitive skin. Calendula flower extract is also an effective home remedy for sunburn and is especially effective when it is mixed with aloe vera gel.

If you have chronic eczema in which your skin cracks and bleeds, calendula oil may help treat this skin inflammation. You can also use this oil extract from the calendula flower to treat perioral dermatitis and dry and damaged skin.

If you want to take marigold flower internally, you can try the calendula tea which is available in tea bags. Based on anecdotal claims, calendula tea may help heal stomach ulcers, constipation and eliminate toxins. It may also soothe menstrual cramps and helps maintain regular periods.

Dried marigold flowers are also available if you want to make your own tea or want to use them to soak yourself in your bath tub. To make calendula tea, add hot water to the petals of the pot marigold flowers, steep it for 15 minutes, strain it and add honey.

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