Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a member of the daisy (Asteraceae) family. Among the 15 species there are both annual and perennial varieties.  

Distribution

Calendula has been cultivated for centuries, making the location of its origin unclear, although it is thought to be native to the southern European Mediterranean region. Calendula now grows across Europe, Asia, and the Americas and is widely naturalized throughout the world. 

They are highly tolerant and adaptable plants – suited to a variety of growing conditions.  

Common names: Pot marigold, mary’s gold, ruddles, marybud, holligold, goldbloom. 

The genus name “calendula” comes from the Latin “calendae” meaning “little clock” or “little calendar” in reference to their petals opening and closing with the rise and setting of the sun.  

Medicinal parts and Compounds 

Flower/flower petals 

Calendula blossoms contain lipids, terpenoids, carotenoids, flavonoids, coumarins and quinones. 

Main Therapeutic Uses  

Traditionally, calendula was used for healing wounds and infections with many applications. The blossoms were used to make a posset (medicinal curdled milk-based drink) in England, thought to cure smallpox and measles and Roman soldiers would carry calendula with them for its healing abilities.  

Today, calendula’s antiseptic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties are better understood, and it is used both internally and externally to soothe and heal. 

Internally, calendula can be taken to ease inflammatory conditions of the digestive tract. 

Topically, calendula helps relieve skin inflammations and irritations and treats wounded, damaged, inflamed and/or infected skin. It can also help to stimulate the repair of epithelial tissue, speeding and enhancing the healing process. 

Different topical preparations of calendula: 

Oils can be safely used on superficial broken skin to promote the regeneration of the primary skin layer that speeds healing, reduces scarring, and promotes aligned collagen for stronger skin tissue. 

Salves are ideal for relieving skin irritations and healing injuries, as they sit over the area for longer periods due to their thicker consistency. there is minimal risk of skin reaction or allergy making it suitable for sensitive baby skin and in healing surface scratches or wounds. 

Creams are ideal carriers for delivering herbal properties into deeper layers of skin and absorb faster than a salve, although not recommended for use on broken skin.  

Folklore and Symbolism 

The bright yellow and orange colours of calendula have made them a symbol of the power and life-giving energy of the sun, and they are used in religious ritual.  

Calendula blossoms are strung as vibrant garlands in Hindu worship and to adorn temples – often in celebrations involving deities of the sun.  

In ancient Egypt it was considered a rejuvenating herb that bestowed youth and vitality to those who used preparations of it.  

In the Victorian era, calendula was included in bouquets as signs of affection and love, and have some to also symbolize joy and happiness.  

Calendula on St. Francis Herb Farm 

St. Francis Products Featuring Calendula