Calendula: Myths and Superstitions

Calendula are some of the most popular flowers grown in beds during the summer months. They can also be used as a natural herbal remedy. But, there is a symbolism behind these lovely, golden flowers that most people do not know about. Here are some myths and superstitions about calendula flowers that you may have never heard before.

Calendula and calendar come from the same Latin word. This is because the flower has a blooming season that is almost continuous. This lovely orange-gold flower has the common name of marigold. It is thought to have this name because the Virgin Mary worn a calendula flower on her breast.

Another common name is quite amusing. It is jackanapes on horseback. Because of the belief that it can be an aphrodisiac, it also carries the common names of husbandman's dial and summer's bride. It is sometimes used in wedding bouquets because it, also, represents fidelity and endurance in love.

There are claims that calendula flowers can ward off witchcraft. And, if you dream of the lovely, gold flowers, this means there is a large sum of money on it's way to you, sometime in the future.

In Wales, it was once believed that if calendula flowers were not open by 7 in the morning, there was rain on the way. Another superstition held in this country is that anyone who picks a calendula, or even looks at one, runs the risk of developing a weakness for strong drink. This has led to the plants being known as drunkards in Wales.

This flower is known as the flower of death in Mexico. This is because it is believed that the flowers sprung up from the blood of natives that were killed by Spanish invaders. Calendula is used to adorn gravestones on the Day of the Dead in Mexico.

In the Victorian flower language, calendula has an almost equally bad reputation. It is known as the symbol of mental anguish. This is probably because of it's association with death in other cultures. It is also associated with unrequired love, sorrow, pain, and anger in some European countries.

There are many conflicting stories as to the effects the calendula flower can have on your life. However, in modern times, it is mainly used as an herb in cooking and natural remedies. But, you never know when it might have influence over other areas of your life, just when you least expect it.

SOURCES

Pickering, David. "Dictionary of Superstitions". 1995. Cassell Publishing. London, England.

Scoble, Gretchen and Ann Field. "The Meaning of Herbs". 2001. Chronicle Books LLC. Vancouver, BC, Canada.