Calendula Flower - Edible Office, Flickr 4671249486_3a8a824d9b_o

Botanical Name: Calendula officinalis

There are over fifteen species of Calendula and the most commonly used one is Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold. It produces flowers that bloom a vibrant orange or golden color. Calendula is an edible flower that is tasty in salads and can be used as a colorant too. Yes, you can eat it like you would dandelion greens.

Part of Plant Used: petals

Aroma: herbal/floral

Why It’s Wonderful: Calendula is generally used on the skin and has been used notably because of its perceived ability to reduce skin irritations and promote skin repair – burns, cuts, bruises and dermatitis, etc. It is believed to help soothe and calm the skin.

Action/Purpose: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, velnerary (wound healing),

Senica products containing calendula: Blemish Balm

Learn More about the Blemish Balm Collection
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Do you use calendula? If so, how? Share in the comments below.

Scientific Studies & Other Readings on Calendula:

National Institute of Health, U.S. Library of of Medicine; MedLine Plus: Calendula

Calendula Flower Profile – Mountain Rose Herbs

Della Loggia R. and et al. Topical anti-inflammatory activity of Calendula officinalis extracts. Planta Med 1990;56:658

Akhtar N, Zaman SU, Khan BA, Amir MN, Ebrahimzadeh MA. Calendula extract: effects on mechanical parameters of human skin. Acta Pol Pharm. 2011;68(5):693-701.

Panahi Y, Sharif MR, Sharif A, et al. A randomized comparative trial on the therapeutic efficacy of topical aloe vera and Calendula officinalis on diaper dermatitis in children. Scientific World Journal. 2012;2012:810234.

Saini P, Al-Shibani N, Sun J, et al. Effects of Calendula officinalis on human gingival fibroblasts. Homeopathy. 2012;101(2):92-8.

Calendula Ingredient Spotlight Square

Photo Source: Edible Office, Flickr

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