Using Calendula in Skincare and First Aid

The English Marigold Has Been Used for Centuries for Its Curative Properties

Alternative Mom
Since the dawn of time mankind has relied on the bounty of nature for medicine. Calendula officinallis, also called Pot Marigold or English Marigold, has one of the longest recorded histories of use of all herbs. Calendula has been used speed the healing of cuts, scrapes, and burns and to soothe skin irritation. Herbalists use the whole, ground flower applied directly to the skin or as tinctures and oils. Homeopathically prepared Calendula it is used in the same way and also taken internally to speed healing of internal and oral injuries. The flower may also be brewed as a tea.

The genus includes roughly 12-20 different species of annual or perennials in the daisy family Asteraceae. They are native to the Mediterranean area and should not be confused with other plants also called marigolds. Calendula officinallis is, however, easy for the home gardener to cultivate in nearly any climate.

Calendula is available in many different preparations from homeopathic pills to herbal creams to diaper rash cream and even toothpaste. It is also a popular ingredient in moisturizers, soaps, and bath products and is a useful ingredient in lip balms and diaper rash cream for its skin-soothing properties.

-Calendula is aseptic, it does not kill bacteria, but it does have properties to prevent their growth.

-Calendula is generally considered to be non-toxic for internal use.

-The herb is most commonly used to aid healing of a wound and to prevent the infection of severe wounds on the body.

-Calendula products are readily available in stores.

-The flower petals are edible and can be used decoratively in salads or pastries.

-Applied topically, it can help stem the bleeding from minor cuts and scrapes.

-Calendula cream can be used in tandem with topical antibiotic ointments.

-As with any herbal medicine, ask your doctor before consuming Calendula preparations if you are on any prescription medication.

Some excellent uses for the herb:

  • Minor cuts and scrapes

  • Windburn

  • Scratches

  • Paper cuts

  • Hangnails or painful skin under a torn nail

  • Injured or bleeding gums after dental work

  • Minor burns and sunburn

  • Perineal healing following childbirth

  • Sore nipples from breastfeeding

  • Skinned knees

  • Rashes

  • Wound healing after surgery(especially for itchy stitches)

  • Acne sores

  • Bug Bites

  • Tattoo healing

  • Persistent scabs

  • Sore noses from colds, flu, or allergies

  • Pain following hair removal

  • Abrasions

  • Chaffed skin

  • Diaper rash

  • Chapped Lips

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