Calendula Benefits and Uses

Calendula officinalis, sometimes called pot marigold (not to be confused with the ornamental garden marigold), is an easy-to-grow annual with bright orange or yellow flowers. Native to the Mediterranean, it is now grown all over the world for both beauty and practical use.

Calendula has a long history in herbal medicine, valued for its gentle but effective healing properties. Its flowers are packed with compounds that soothe irritation, fight infection, and support the body's natural healing processes.

Photo by Kat Furtak on Unsplash

Calendula at a glance:

Category	Details
Botanical name	Calendula officinalis
Common name	Pot marigold (not the ornamental marigold)
Plant type	Annual herb
Height	Up to 60 cm (2 ft)
Native to	Mediterranean region
Main benefits	- Soothes skin irritation, rashes, burns, cuts - Speeds wound healing - Antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory - Supports digestion and eases cramps - Gentle enough for babies (when used appropriately)
How to use	- Oil or salve: For minor skin issues - Tea: For digestion and menstrual comfort - Bath soak: For irritated or dry skin - Topical wash: Mild infusion for eye area irritation (avoid direct eye contact)
Safety notes	- Avoid if allergic to the Asteraceae family - May affect hormone levels - avoid in pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised - Can cause mild drowsiness or skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Storage	- Keep dried petals in an airtight jar, away from light and heat - Shelf life: Up to 1 year

Benefits for the Skin

Calendula is best known for calming and protecting the skin. It has anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antimicrobial actions, making it useful for:

• Minor cuts, scrapes and burns

• Rashes (including nappy rash)

• Sunburn

• Dry, cracked skin

• Mild fungal infections

It has also been used to support healing after childbirth, particularly for episiotomy wounds, and for easing irritation in sensitive areas.

Simple Calendula Oil

1. Fill a clean jar with dried calendula petals.

2. Cover completely with a carrier oil such as olive, sunflower or coconut.

3. Seal and place in a warm, sunny spot for 2-4 weeks, shaking gently every few days.

4. Strain and store in a clean bottle.

This oil can be used directly on the skin or made into a balm by adding beeswax.

Support for Digestion and More

Calendula is not only for external use. As a tea or tincture, it has traditionally been used to:

• Relieve stomach cramps

• Ease constipation by gently stimulating digestion

• Reduce menstrual discomfort

  
  

Modern research has also explored calendula for:

• Protecting skin from UV damage when used in creams

• Treating bacterial vaginal irritation

• Supporting wound healing when combined with other herbs such as aloe vera or comfrey

• Potential anti-tumour activity in early studies

Traditional and Folk Uses

Historically, calendula was used for headaches, toothaches and eye irritation. Petals infused in oil or water were applied around the eyes to help with mild redness and swelling (never directly into the eye).

In folklore, calendula appeared in love charms and rituals. In some traditions, an ointment made with calendula and other herbs was used in hopes of revealing a future partner or glimpsing fairies.

How to Use Calendula at Home

• Oil or salve - For cuts, scrapes, burns, rashes or dry skin

• Tea - To support digestion and ease menstrual cramps

• Bath soak - Add petals in a muslin bag to warm bath water for soothing skin

• Topical washes - Mild infusion for skin irritation or around the eyes (avoid direct contact with the eye itself)

Side Effects and Precautions

Calendula is generally safe for most people, but:

• Avoid if allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed, chamomile or daisies)

• May affect hormone levels - avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised by a qualified practitioner

• Can cause drowsiness or skin irritation in sensitive individuals

• Do not ingest large amounts

Storage

Dried petals keep well in an airtight jar, away from direct sunlight and heat. This makes it easy to have calendula on hand for quick remedies all year round.