Also known as pot marigold (Calendula officinalis), calendula is a versatile herb native to the Mediterranean region. Europeans have grown this flowering plant in their gardens since the 1100s, actively using it through the centuries as a food and healing agent. A member of the aster family, calendula should not be confused with the common garden marigold (Tagetes species), which also sports bright orange and yellow flowers. It’s the colorful blossoming tops that are used medicinally.

The name "calendula" connotes to the plant’s tendency to bloom according to the calendar, either once a month or at the new moon. Some sources also refer to calendula by its medieval moniker, "poor man's saffron," because it lends vibrant color and flavor to soups, rice, and chowders. These days, the colorful petals are a popular addition to salads.

Health Benefits

Calendula is nature's remedy for many of life's little accidents: sunburns, bruises, and scratches, to name a few. In years past, the herb was used to treat wide-ranging ailments, such as fever, cancer, and skin infections. Contemporary herbalists now focus primarily on its topical uses, namely, for treating boils, rashes, sunburns, chapped hands, insect bites, and other instances of inflamed or damaged skin. Lotions and other topical calendula preparations (tinctures, ointments, creams, gargles) are still widely used in Europe, particularly for slow-healing skin problems. Many of these topical formulations can now be found in pharmacies, health-food stores, and other outlets in the United States.

The herb's primary active compounds include triterpenoids (they are anti-inflammatory) and flavonoids. Modern laboratory and animal studies indicate that calendula petals do indeed have anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antiseptic (antibacterial and antiviral) properties, and may even offer immune-stimulating actions. The benefits of calendula in healing burns and wounds have also been demonstrated in research studies.

The inflammation of a sore throat may be lessened by gargling or rinsing with an astringent tea made from the dried calendula flowers. German health authorities approve of using calendula tea for treating throat soreness and inflammation.

Although drinking calendula tea may possibly help to control internal inflammation--some herbalists recommend it for stomach upset and ulcers--there is relatively little firm evidence to support its value when taken internally (in any form). For this reason, teas and other forms designed to be taken internally are not recommended.