Learn Herbalism: Unlocking the Healing Power of Calendula

Calendula, also known as pot marigold (Calendula officinalis), is a cheerful, bright orange or yellow flower that has been celebrated for centuries as a versatile herbal remedy. If you’re a budding backyard botanist or an experienced herbalist, calendula is an essential herb to grow and use. Let’s dive into why this powerhouse plant deserves a place in your apothecary and your garden.

 

 

The History and Benefits of Calendula

Calendula has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient Egypt, where it was valued for its skin-healing properties. Medieval Europeans used it to flavor food and dye fabrics, while herbalists praised it as a remedy for wounds, digestive issues, and infections.

 

Today, calendula is widely known for its:

• Skin Healing: Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it perfect for salves and creams to soothe cuts, scrapes, burns, and rashes.

• Digestive Support: Drinking calendula tea can help ease inflammation in the stomach and promote healthy digestion.

• Immune Boosting: Calendula’s antioxidants help protect the body from free radicals, promoting overall health.

• Gentle Detox: It supports lymphatic drainage, helping the body cleanse itself naturally.

 

Growing and Harvesting Calendula

Calendula is a hardy, easy-to-grow annual that thrives in most climates.

• Planting: Sow seeds directly into the soil after the last frost, choosing a sunny spot with well-draining soil.

• Care: Water regularly and deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.

• Harvesting: Pick flowers when they are fully open, and dry them in a warm, shaded area for later use.

 

How to Use Calendula

Calendula’s versatility means you can incorporate it into your herbal remedies in many ways:

1. Infused Oil:

• Fill a jar with dried calendula petals and cover them with a carrier oil like olive or almond oil.

• Let it infuse in a sunny spot for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain and use in salves or lotions.

2. Calendula Tea:

• Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried petals in boiling water for 10 minutes.

• Drink to soothe an upset stomach or use as a gentle skin rinse.

3. Homemade Salve:

Combine calendula-infused oil with beeswax to create a healing balm for minor skin irritations.

4. Facial Steam:

• Add a handful of dried petals to a bowl of hot water.

• Place your face over the bowl with a towel draped over your head for a calming, skin-nourishing steam.

 

Fun Fact: Calendula in the Kitchen

Calendula is often called “poor man’s saffron” because its petals can be used as a natural dye to brighten dishes like rice, soups, and baked goods. It’s a beautiful way to add color and a mild, slightly peppery flavor.

 

Start Your Herbal Journey with Calendula

Whether you’re crafting your first herbal salve or adding cheerful blooms to your garden, calendula is a wonderful herb to start with. Its vibrant petals remind us of nature’s abundant gifts and the simple beauty of healing with plants.

 

What’s your favorite way to use calendula? Let me know in the comments below, and stay tuned for more from the Learn Herbalism series.

 

Medicine comes from plants, and you can make it yourself!