Herbal Monograph: Calendula officinalis

Family

Asteraceae

Actions

Vulnerary, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, lymphatic, emmenagogue (Arora et al., 2013)

Energetics

Slightly warming and drying (Holmes, 1997)

Chemical Constituents

• Flavonoids (quercetin, rutin, kaempferol)
• Triterpene saponins (calendulosides)
• Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene)
• Essential oils (alpha-cadinol, alpha-cadinene, limonene)
• Polysaccharides
• Sterols

The complex phytochemical profile of calendula contributes to its diverse biological activities (Muley et al., 2009).

Part of Plant Used

Flowers (fresh or dried)

Uses

• Supports skin health
• Promotes wound healing
• Supports healthy inflammatory response
• Promotes lymphatic function
• Supports menstrual wellness
• Promotes oral health

A comprehensive review by Givol et al. (2019) highlighted calendula’s potential in supporting various aspects of health, particularly in dermatological and wound healing applications.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy (due to potential uterine stimulating effects)
• Known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae family

Side Effects

• Potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
• Rare cases of contact dermatitis reported

While generally well-tolerated, these side effects have been noted in some individuals (Reider et al., 2001).

Interactions with Other Drugs

• May interact with sedative preparations
• Theoretical interaction with hypoglycemic preparations

Caution is advised when combining calendula with these types of preparations due to potential interactions (Basch et al., 2006).

Dosage

• Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers per cup of boiling water, steep for 10-15 minutes, three times daily
• Tincture (1:5 in 60% alcohol): 2-4 mL, three times daily
• Topical application: Creams or ointments containing 2-5% calendula extract

Clinical studies have used a wide range of doses, particularly for topical applications (Khairnar et al., 2013).

Mode of Administration

Oral consumption as tea or tincture. Topical application as cream, ointment, or compress.

Duration of Administration

Can be used short-term for acute situations or long-term for chronic conditions. For extended use, consult with a qualified herbalist.

Risks

• Potential for allergic reactions, especially in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family
• May affect blood glucose levels (theoretical risk)

A review by Arora et al. (2013) emphasized the importance of considering individual sensitivities when using calendula.

Recipes

1. Calendula Tea

• 1-2 teaspoons dried calendula flowers
• 1 cup boiling water
  Steep for 10-15 minutes, strain, and enjoy.

1. Calendula-Infused Oil

• 1 cup dried calendula flowers
• 2 cups carrier oil (e.g., olive or jojoba)
  Combine in a jar, let sit for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily. Strain and use topically.

1. Calendula Compress

• 1/4 cup dried calendula flowers
• 2 cups hot water
  Steep flowers in water for 15 minutes, strain. Soak a clean cloth in the liquid and apply to affected area.

Remember to always consult with a qualified herbalist before incorporating new herbs into your wellness routine, especially if you have existing health concerns or are taking other preparations.

Return to: A Wise Woman’s Guide to Reducing Inflammation with Herbs, Foods, and Lifestyle

References

Arora, D., Rani, A., & Sharma, A. (2013). A review on phytochemistry and ethnopharmacological aspects of genus Calendula. Pharmacognosy Reviews, 7(14), 179-187. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.120520

Basch, E., Bent, S., Foppa, I., Haskmi, S., Kroll, D., Mele, M., Szapary, P., Ulbricht, C., Vora, M., & Yong, S. (2006). Marigold (Calendula officinalis L.): An evidence-based systematic review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration. Journal of Herbal Pharmacotherapy, 6(3-4), 135-159. https://doi.org/10.1080/J157v06n03_08

Givol, O., Kornhaber, R., Visentin, D., Cleary, M., Haik, J., & Harats, M. (2019). A systematic review of Calendula officinalis extract for wound healing. Wound Repair and Regeneration, 27(5), 548-561. https://doi.org/10.1111/wrr.12737

Holmes, P. (1997). The energetics of Western herbs: Treatment strategies integrating Western and Oriental herbal medicine (3rd ed.). Snow Lotus Press.

Khairnar, M. S., Pawar, B., Marawar, P. P., & Mani, A. (2013). Evaluation of Calendula officinalis as an anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis agent. Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology, 17(6), 741-747. https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-124X.124491

Muley, B. P., Khadabadi, S. S., & Banarase, N. B. (2009). Phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of Calendula officinalis Linn (Asteraceae): A review. Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 8(5), 455-465. https://doi.org/10.4314/tjpr.v8i5.48090

Reider, N., Komericki, P., Hausen, B. M., Fritsch, P., & Aberer, W. (2001). The seamy side of natural medicines: Contact sensitization to arnica (Arnica montana L.) and marigold (Calendula officinalis L.). Contact Dermatitis, 45(5), 269-272. https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0536.2001.450503.x