Calendula
Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigold, common marigold, or Scotch marigold, is not a true marigold (Tagetes spp.). While both plants belong to the sunflower (Asteraceae) family, they are members of different genera.
Calendula is an annual plant that typically grows up to about 2 feet tall and produces vivid orange or yellow flower heads with a structure similar to that of daisies. True marigolds (Tagetes spp.) can grow anywhere from 1 to 4 feet tall, depending on the variety. Calendula petals are long and straight, while marigold petals tend to be broader and more rectangular with rounded edges. The seeds also look wildly different: calendula seeds are curved or curled, while marigold seeds resemble slender sunflower seeds.
All aerial parts of Calendula officinalis are generally considered safe to use. In contrast, only certain species of marigold (Tagetes) are considered edible, and even then, they are used sparingly. For this reason, it’s best to avoid marigolds altogether when working with food or herbal medicine unless you are absolutely certain of the species.
Calendula is one of the hardiest flowers in the garden. She can bloom early and survive light frosts—and sometimes even the first snowfall—making her one of the last annuals standing in the garden. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden in spring. In more temperate regions with mild winters, seeds may also be sown in fall or very early spring. Mature plants are prolific self-seeders and can readily reseed themselves in suitable climates.
One of the best things about calendula is that the more flowers you harvest, the more blooms the plant produces. Native to southern Europe but now cultivated in temperate regions around the world, calendula is easily propagated from seed. Be sure to read seed packets carefully and check the scientific name so you don’t accidentally end up with marigolds instead.
Calendula isn’t fussy but prefers full sun, fertile, well-drained soil, and occasional watering. She can tolerate poor soil and a bit of neglect; however, like most plants, she thrives when tended regularly. Flowers are best harvested as they open and dried in the shade.
Calendula arvensis is a wild species of calendula with properties similar to C. officinalis, though C. officinalis is the species most commonly cultivated and used in herbal preparations.
Herbal Uses of Calendula
Calendula is a highly versatile herb in Western herbalism and is traditionally used to:
- Soothe red or inflamed skin
- Help prevent the spread of infection
- Support wound healing
- Cleanse tissues
- Support gentle detoxification
- Aid in chronic or lingering infections
Key actions include:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic (relieves muscle spasms)
- Astringent
- Vulnerary (wound-healing)
- Antiseptic
- Mild lymphatic and detoxifying support
- Mildly estrogenic (may support hormonal balance)
Calendula is best known as a skin remedy and may be helpful for a wide range of skin concerns, including cuts, scrapes, wounds, burns, sunburn, acne, rashes, fungal conditions, diaper rash, cradle cap, and sore or cracked nipples during breastfeeding. Most preparations for these uses are applied externally, though internal use is sometimes employed by herbalists for fungal issues and gastrointestinal irritation, such as ulcers.
Calendula can also be enjoyed as a herbal tea—purely for pleasure.
Calendula Tea
To make a light, everyday tea, place 1–2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers into a cup or tea infuser. Pour 1 cup of nearly boiling water over the herbs and steep for 4–5 minutes, or to taste. Strain, sweeten if desired, and enjoy.
Calendula has a slightly bitter flavor that not everyone loves, but a bit of honey can make it much more pleasant.
Calendula Infusion
NOTE: An infusion is a stronger preparation than tea and is typically used for leaves and flowers. Because of its strength, it is considered medicinal rather than purely recreational.
Bring 1 cup of water almost to a boil and pour it over 1–2 tablespoons of dried calendula flowers, either loose or in a tea bag or ball. Cover and steep for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Strain before use. If taken internally, sweeten with honey if desired.
Once cooled to a safe temperature, this infusion can be poured directly over affected skin, used to soak a cloth or poultice, or added to a bath. For bath use, consider doubling the strength.
Calendula Salve
NOTE: A salve is one of the simplest topical preparations to make and is often preferred over creams, which are more complex.
Begin by infusing an oil with calendula flowers. Olive oil and avocado oil are excellent choices. You may use either a slow infusion method (about 4 weeks) or a quicker method (30–60 minutes), though the slow method is preferred. Excess heat can damage the flowers and reduce their therapeutic value.
If using fresh flowers, moisture can increase the risk of mold. To prevent this, cover the jar with muslin, cheesecloth, or a coffee filter secured with a rubber band instead of an airtight lid, allowing moisture to escape. Keep flowers fully submerged and stir every few days.
Once the oil is ready, strain and store it in a clean, labeled jar.
To make the salve:
- Place 1 cup of infused oil and ¼ cup beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat gently until the beeswax melts, then maintain heat for another 10–15 minutes to ensure thorough incorporation.
- Remove from heat and add essential oils if desired (10–20 drops). Stir well.
Sterilize jars, pour in the salve, cap, label, and allow it to set undisturbed for 30–60 minutes.
TIP: In hot climates, increase beeswax to ½ cup per 1 cup of oil to create a firmer balm. In colder climates, a softer salve works best.
Other Possible Uses
- Apply salve or tincture to bunions 2–3 times daily for one week
- Use cooled infusion as a mouthwash for gingivitis
- Rub a fresh flower on insect bites or stings
- Use salve in place of a conventional antibiotic ointment for minor cuts
- May help inhibit Staphylococcus species on the skin
- Apply cream to sunburns to support healing
- Drink infusion to support chronic gastric inflammation and ulcers
Calendula Cream
NOTE: Creams contain water and require preservatives unless refrigerated and used within 2–4 weeks.
What you will need:
- 1/4 cup Calendula-infused oil
- 1/2 cup distilled water, hydrosol, or aloe vera gel
- 2 tablespoons emulsifying wax
- 1/4 teaspoon preservative
- 10-15 drops of essential oils (optional)
NOTE: Sterilize your jars and tools with a liberal spray of 70% isopropyl alcohol and allow to air dry. Avoid using metal tins to store your cream, as the water content can cause it to rust and contaminate/discolor your preparation. You will need to infuse your oil of choice with Calendula, mentioned earlier in this post.
Instructions:
- Measure the oil and emulsifying wax into a glass jar, and in a separate jar, measure out your water, hydrosol, or aloe vera gel.
- Place jars in a pot, preferably with a rack on the bottom so the jars aren’t in direct contact with the pot, and fill with enough water to cover where the liquids are in the jars. Don’t add too much, or they will float and cause a mess.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and heat until the wax is melted. This can take 20-25 minutes.
- Turn the heat up to medium if it is taking longer than it should, but don’t bring it to a rolling boil. If you have a thermometer, a temp of around 170F will suffice.
- Remove both jars from the pot and slowly pour the water/hydrosol/aloe vera into the oil jar while continuously stirring, either with a whisk or a hand-mixer with one beater. If using a whisk, do so briskly. Continue mixing until you have a stable emulsion that does not separate.
- If you choose to add essential oils, add them now and stir them in.
- Let the mixture cool and add whatever preservative you choose. Mix well.
- Pour or scoop into your sterilized storage container. Cap, label, and let it sit. It can take around 24 hours to completely set up, so be patient!
Calendula & Rose Water Face Toner
This preparation uses calendula-infused witch hazel.
Mix:
- 1 cup calendula-infused witch hazel
- 1 to 3 teaspoons rose water
- 10 to 15 drops of essential oil (optional)
Apply with a spray bottle or cotton pad. Use morning and/or night as a natural toner. Witch hazel acts as a gentle astringent.
NOTE: Those with dry or sensitive skin may wish to follow with a moisturizer.
Disclaimer:
The information shared here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Plant identification, preparation, and use should always be approached with care. Common names can refer to multiple species, each with different properties and safety considerations. Please research thoroughly, verify scientific names, and consult qualified professionals before ingesting or using any plant medicinally.