Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a plant with orange petals, known for its medicinal properties. This plant has traditionally been used to support skin health, promote wound healing, strengthen the immune system, and support digestion. Scientific studies confirm many of its beneficial properties, and in modern wellness practices calendula is widely used as a natural healing ingredient.
What is calendula
Calendula is an annual flower from the Asteraceae family, native to the Mediterranean region. This 30–45 cm tall plant has orange and yellow flowers, which can be single or double. Aromatic, lance-shaped leaves grow along sparsely branched stems. Calendula grows well in moderately fertile, well-drained soil and full sun, but it can also tolerate light shade.
Early American colonists used calendula to color butter and cheese (source: University of Florida IFAS Extension). The FDA has approved this plant as a safe spice and ingredient in various products (source: All Good Body Care). Calendula petals are used in cooking as well as in the production of medicinal preparations.
Use in gardens
Calendula attracts pollinators and butterflies and naturally repels deer and rabbits. It grows successfully even in poor, dry soil, but does not tolerate excessive moisture. This plant can be used as ground cover or to conceal containers, while dried petals can be used to make yellow dye.
Wound healing properties
Calendula has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and promotes angiogenesis and collagen synthesis, making it effective for treating various wounds. Clinical studies show that the surface area of venous ulcers can decrease by up to 42% over three weeks of treatment. Calendula is particularly effective in treating radiation-induced dermatitis, episiotomy wounds, and other chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, while also helping prevent secondary infections.
This plant effectively reduces swelling and itching and promotes the regeneration of damaged skin. Because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, calendula can be used to treat ordinary wounds as well as relieve discomfort caused by insect bites.
Skin care benefits
Calendula moisturizes the skin, improves elasticity and firmness, and protects against oxidative damage. Because of tannins such as catechol and pyrogallol, this plant helps restore the skin barrier, while flavonoids and terpenoids have anti-inflammatory properties, making calendula suitable for sensitive skin (source: Mustela USA).
Quercetin and lutein give calendula anti-aging properties, help protect against environmental damage, and support skin cell regeneration. Calendula is used in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis, to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and to help protect against infections. Its antiseptic and antibacterial properties support a healthy skin microbiome, promote wound healing, and help maintain skin balance.
Combining calendula with natural oils such as sweet almond oil provides additional nourishment and moisture for the skin (source: UA Body). Because of its broad range of properties, calendula is suitable for everyday skin care as well as for addressing specific skin concerns.
Digestive system support
Calendula has anti-inflammatory properties that may help treat digestive disorders such as inflammation of the intestinal lining, ulcerative colitis, and stomach ulcers. It promotes healing of the gastrointestinal lining, reduces inflammation, improves tissue recovery, and supports a healthy digestive microbiota (source: Herbal Reality).
Flavonoids and triterpenes reduce intestinal inflammation, stimulate the production of digestive fluids, and improve nutrient absorption. Calendula also helps strengthen the intestinal walls, protect against leaky gut syndrome, and support proper gastrointestinal function (source: Albuquerque Herbalism).
Urbanfood calendula flower powder can be used to support digestion. Mix it into warm water or herbal tea to help reduce inflammation and support tissue recovery.
Natural treatment for ulcers
Calendula is effective in treating digestive ulcers. Studies show that patients treated with calendula may heal up to four times faster than control groups. Particularly effective results have been observed in the treatment of venous leg ulcers, where 72% of patients achieved complete epithelialization (source: RxList). Calendula's triterpenoid saponins have gastroprotective properties, reduce the risk of ulcer formation, and promote healing.
Calendula's effectiveness comes from its ability to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and fluids and increase blood flow to damaged areas. Flavonoids and carotenoids provide strong antioxidant protection, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue regeneration (source: Dr. Axe). Calendula tea may be useful in treating stomach and duodenal ulcers, relieving symptoms, and supporting digestive tract function.
However, before using calendula as a treatment, it is recommended to consult a doctor to ensure appropriate and safe use.
Immune system support
Calendula helps strengthen the immune system through its antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant effectively fights pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and promotes lymphatic drainage, helping remove toxins and cellular waste (source: MOFGA).
Antioxidants such as flavonoids and carotenoids protect cells from free radical damage, while immunomodulatory properties support the body's ability to resist infections. Urbanfood calendula flower powder, mixed into everyday foods or drinks, may help support strong immunity and fight inflammation.
Topical use
Calendula effectively treats cuts, scratches, and other skin injuries, reducing wound size by up to 40% within four weeks. It promotes collagen production, improves blood circulation, and increases angiogenesis, helping tissues regenerate more quickly.
Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help protect against infection and reduce discomfort, particularly in cases of insect bites. Calendula reduces swelling and itching and promotes healing, helping prevent secondary infections. This plant can be useful for everyday use as well as for treating specific skin injuries.
How to make calendula tea
Calendula tea is a simple and natural way to benefit from the plant's medicinal properties. Add 1-2 tablespoons (15–30 g) of dried or fresh calendula flowers to 240 ml of hot, but not boiling, water. Steep the flowers for 5-10 minutes, strain, and drink the tea warm or cold.
The tea can be used internally for digestive problems and throat irritation, or externally for wounds and skin concerns.
Precautions:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid calendula tea because safety research is limited.
- People taking sedative medications should consult a doctor because of possible interactions.
For convenience, larger batches of tea can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for several days. Tea prepared this way remains useful for health-related and everyday use.
Beauty and anti-aging effects
Calendula strengthens the skin barrier, protects against free radical damage, and promotes collagen and elastin production. Flavonoids and fatty acids help moisturize the skin, reduce irritation, and protect against moisture loss. These properties are particularly beneficial for sensitive and aging skin exposed to environmental factors.
Because of its anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects, calendula is a useful ingredient in everyday skin care and anti-aging treatments.
Safety considerations
Calendula is generally considered safe to use, but possible safety concerns should still be taken into account. The FDA has approved the use of calendula in cosmetic and wound care products, but people who are allergic to plants from the Asteraceae / Compositae family, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, or daisies, may experience allergic reactions. These reactions can range from mild contact dermatitis to more severe allergic responses.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid calendula. Calendula taken orally during pregnancy may cause uterine contractions, which can increase the risk of miscarriage. There is also insufficient information about its safety during breastfeeding, so even topical use should be limited.
Before adding calendula to your daily routine, consult your doctor, especially if you take medication or know that you have plant allergies. Carefully follow the dosage recommendations provided on product labels, since even natural products can pose risks when consumed in excessive amounts.
If you are also taking sedative medications, use caution because calendula may increase their effects and cause drowsiness. Responsible use of calendula helps you benefit from its properties while maintaining your safety.
Can calendula tea help with menstrual cramps and hormonal balance?
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, calendula tea may help reduce menstrual cramps and contribute to maintaining hormonal balance. It may also support menstrual regulation and reduce pain, although more scientific research is needed to fully confirm these effects.
How long does it take to notice results from using calendula products?
Results depend on the condition:
- Wound healing may improve within 1-2 weeks.
- Skin moisturizing effects may be noticeable within a few days.
- For chronic conditions, significant improvement may take 8-12 weeks of regular use.
Is calendula safe to use on pets for skin problems?
Calendula is generally safe to use on pets for skin problems when used properly. It has anti-inflammatory and healing properties. However, pets should be monitored for any signs of an allergic reaction.
Can calendula help with hair growth and scalp health?
Calendula effectively promotes hair growth by stimulating follicles and improving blood circulation in the scalp. It also soothes an irritated scalp, helps prevent dandruff, reduces inflammation, and supports overall scalp health.
Does calendula become less effective when mixed with other herbs?
Calendula does not become less effective when combined with other herbs. Certain combinations, such as calendula with arnica or St. John's wort, may strengthen the healing effects for specific conditions. These combinations may provide additional benefits because of the different properties of the herbs.
