Calendula: Contraindications, Benefits And Uses

A plant widely known for its beautiful shades of oranges and yellows, we are talking about the calendula, a plant that we can even see in parks and beautiful gardens. Thanks to its multiple medicinal properties and benefits, it is widely used both in aesthetics and medicine . That is why you must know all the benefits of this herbaceous plant. It is not in vain its popularity and a wide range of uses for many years, the Greeks and the Romans used calendula to heal different diseases, it was also widely used by the Egyptians and they considered it as a miraculous medicinal plant.

Calendula can be used topically to soothe certain skin conditions and to relieve inflammation. It is a marvel of plant because we can take advantage of its flower heads for medicinal purposes, which must be harvested in the flowering stage, preferably in the initial hours after the sun rises. Enjoy all the properties of this antiviral, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antibacterial, choleretic, emmenagogue, healing and anti-hemorrhagic plant, without forgetting some contraindications and possible risks related to the use of calendula. Although experts usually recommend calendula mostly for topical use, it is also true that certain traditional uses are currently preserved internally.

What is calendula?

Calendula’s name comes from calendae in Latin , which refers to the first day of the month. Calendula has the ability to bloom every month of the year, as long as the right conditions exist (in spaces where the temperature is too low, flowering hardly occurs). As with the sunflower, which rotate based on the solar movement this made them recognized as solsequium.

Today we can find different varieties on the market, which are selected for their decorative benefits, especially for size, color and abundant flowering. You can choose from marigolds in bright orange to varieties in light yellow and more intense tones.

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Origin of calendula

Calendula for sure its origin is unknown, it probably originates from a rustic species Calendula Arvensis, this plant preferably abounds on the roadsides, open fields and in wastelands. It is in the Middle East where it was originally cultivated, although by the 12th century it was cultivated on the European continent. Calendula’s medicinal properties have been exploited since ancient times and today it is mostly used in gardening for its persistent and showy flowering.

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Calendula history

Calendula has been known for thousands of years. This herbaceous plant was widely used by the ancient Aztecs for its medicinal, magical and spiritual properties . Calendula seeds were transferred by the first explorers of Spain, it is here where its cultivation spread, it was mainly cultivated for the gardens that were in the monasteries. From Spain its cultivation was transferred to the countries belonging to the Mediterranean Basin.

The first written and recognized document that refers to the marigold is the Lebellus de Medicinalibus Indorum Herbis (Code of the Cross-Badiano) belonging to the year 1552. It is in the year 1578 when the important botanist Dodoens make reference to the flowers of tonality. vibrant yellow, very nice flowers that close when the sun goes down. Traditionally and historically, its flowers are recognized for their extensive healing properties and benefits, an excellent antiseptic and to reduce inflammation.

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Calendula characteristics

This herbaceous plant with a certain woody appearance at its base, is generally grown annually. The leaves of the calendula stand out for their rounded tips, initially they form a rosette from which flower buds emerge, this plant can have leaves with a length of up to 10 cm.

Calendula begins to bloom in the spring normally until fall begins. Its flowers are arranged with a shade between yellow and orange, although we can also find varieties with different shades of flower. The marigold flower opens at dawn and closes at night.

The plant can grow to between 30 cm and 50 cm, its angular, semi-erect and branched stem stands out along with its oblong, alternate and sessile leaves; chapters of orange or yellow color, the crown with 15 ligules and up to 20 ligules. The fruits may be curved and almost all have dorsal spikes or membranous wings.

Calendula scientific name

The scientific name of this herbaceous plant is Calendula Officinalis , although it is popularly known under other names such as marigold flower, flamenquilla or deceased flower.

Calendula chemical composition

Calendula is mainly composed of essential oil up to 0.4% in its receptacle and up to 0.12% in its ray flowers, isomenthone, g-terpinene, menthone, a-muurolene, d- and g- cadinene, padunculatin, caryophyllene, a and b -ionone; 5,6-epoxy-b-ionone, geranylacetone, dihydroactinidiolide, carvone, and caryophylenietone are some.

In addition to containing flavonoids up to 0.33% in the receptacle and 0.88% in ray flowers, such as quercetin and isoramnetin heterosides.

Calendula also has multiple hemolytic saponosides that come from calnedulosides (oleanolic acid); trepertenic alcohols such as taraxasterol, arnidiol, calnduladiol, and pentacyclic triterpentriols; esterified, glycosylated and free sterols; xanthophylls and carotenes; tannins and phenolic acids; polyacetylenes.

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Calendula active ingredient

The essential oil, flavonoids, mucilages, carotenoids, bitter principles and carotenoids are the active principles of calendula. These compounds give the tufted or flamenquilla its different medicinal properties: vasodilator, antiseptic, healing, anti-inflammatory, Vulnerary, antispasmodic, fungicidal, digestive, anti-hemorrhagic, sudorific and antiviral.

The active principles are those that give the repairing effects to this plant, these are used by the calendula to be able to progress successfully in the spaces where they live, to attract the insects in charge of pollinating, defend themselves from predators, in addition to facilitating the attraction of nutrients and light. Even these biochemical components have in many cases a certain evolutionary equality with the molecules of the human being , this could be an explanation of their high efficacy in the therapeutic area.

Calendula cultiation

Calendula reproduces without complications through its seeds. This herbaceous plant prefers outdoor environments, especially in clear climates. Calendula can grow in semi-shade as well as in full sun. It needs to be watered with small amounts of water on a regular basis, preferring soils that do not have too much moisture .

It is a herbaceous plant that can resist freezing temperatures and low temperatures without any problem. As for soils high in organic matter, calendula is not too demanding. Once the marigold flowers open, they have been harvested, they are stored in a dry, dark place with enough ventilation so that they can dry and keep them until the moment of use.

Uses and benefits of calendula

Of orange and yellow colors, this plant is quite popular to be grown in parks and gardens. Its benefits are very interesting both for the cosmetic area and for medicine. Do not forget to read below all the uses and benefits of calendula for your skin, protect your hair, to lose weight and to treat dermatitis.

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What are the benefits for skin and blemishes?

Thanks to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, healing and antibiotic properties, the calendula flower is widely used for the treatment of different skin-related conditions, such as: scratches, irritations, sunburns, insect bites, skin infections, among others.

For this reason, calendula is part of the components of many creams that currently exist on the market, especially in dermatological creams . Among all the uses we can highlight that it helps reduce warts and cays, as well as excellent results in treatments against acne in puberty.

Calendula is used in balms, lotions and creams especially for skin that is too dry, thanks to its moisturizing power. Although calendula is also used for its astringent properties on oily skin, as it helps eliminate unpleasant and unsightly pimples. People with sensitive skin can also use calendula, but it is necessary that before starting to use it, they carry out an allergy test to avoid any allergic reaction to the components of this herbaceous plant. Excellent results are also obtained to treat spots on the epidermis that have been caused by age by exposure to sunlight .

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It has many properties for the hair

Calendula in oil is excellent to treat hair, it helps keep your scalp hydrated, and its regular use helps remove dandruff. Calendula also serves to optimize the development of highlights, thanks to the regenerative power of calendula which helps the follicles to stay healthy, the hair is abundant, in addition to strengthening and nourishing the hair follicles.

Calendula also helps keep your hair coloring more vibrant and intense, no matter if your hair is deep red or gold, black or brown. It is used to remove salt and chlorine residues in your hair, generally this type of residue accumulates during washing on the scalp. It restores hair damage due to contamination. This herbaceous plant leaves your hair hydrated, soft and fat-free.

It can act as a natural moisturizing shampoo on your hair, in a short time you will see the traces of dandruff disappear from your scalp . Show off long, hydrated, healthy and shiny hair naturally with calendula.

Is it good for losing weight?

Calendula mixed with other types of medicinal plants can help you lose those extra kilos. It is widely used in hot and cold drinks, in addition to being a comforting drink, including a break in the daily routine, calendula removes the need to eat. This plant is not only good for taking care of your skin and hair, it also has bitter active principles which help reduce abdominal inflammation and improve digestion.

You can combine calendula with dandelion, horsetail, nettle and you will have an effective mixture to reduce measurements in a healthy and natural way. Next, we detail the recipe and the simple preparation of this slimming wonder with calendula and other medicinal plants, which you can find in any specialized store.

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CALENDULA WEIGHT LOSS RECIPE

We are going to need for this recipe: 10 grams of dandelion root, 10 grams of nettle leaves, 10 grams of calendula, 10 grams of horsetail and a liter of water. The preparation is very simple: first you are going to place the water in a container together with the dandelion on the fire, after this you can add the horsetail, calendula and nettle. Leave on the fire for 10 minutes. Finally, remove from the heat and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes.

You can drink this infusion during the day, 3 times. It is essential that in parallel you maintain a diet with few calories and do some physical activity.

Widely used for different types of dermatitis

In important studies carried out on the properties of calendula, it has been possible to verify its curative effects in infections, inflammations, redness, skin irritations, itching, etc. That is why calendula is used to soothe all kinds of dermatitis, eczema, burns, stings, allergic reactions, broken veins and varicose veins. For this reason, the plant is an essential component in creams to treat psoriasis, dermatitis and irritations caused by diapers on the baby’s skin.

How is calendula oil extracted?

We cannot deny the benefits and properties of calendula and for them it is one of the most popular home remedies. To extract the calendula oil, we only need to macerate the dried marigold flowers in oil and place them in an airtight glass container for 40 days in a warm place.

Pregnancy and calendula

Different diseases treated with this herbaceous plant occur during the pregnancy stage, although we must also clarify that the use of calendula can damage the baby’s development.

Because it is used to start menstruation, ingesting calendula in pregnancy can provoke the uterus, which can lead to miscarriage. Although until today it has not been possible to carry out any study regarding the safe use of calendula in pregnancy, it is best to avoid ingesting calendula.

Neither is its topical use recommended during pregnancy, because it may include some risks. Although we must point out that some women have used it successfully to reduce or prevent stretch marks. There are some products that combine calendula with other herbs and vitamin E oil , so that you do not expose yourself too much to the plant. Generally, this treatment can be used to massage the perineum area. This can contribute at the time of delivery. In any case, before starting to use a product with calendula, it is best to consult with the obstetrician to reduce the risks in pregnancy.

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Can it be used while breastfeeding? Why?

Internal use of calendula during breastfeeding should also be avoided, since there is no evidence of harmful effects on the baby and the mother.

Regarding topical use in breastfeeding, we can point out that the properties of this plant collaborate in improving the cracks that normally appear on the nipples during breastfeeding . Continuously applying a calendula cream is effective in preventing infections and injuries, as well as reducing inflammation in this area. Helps protect skin from bacteria, giving it a healthier and more youthful appearance.

Calendula and fertility

Calendula also has some effects on creating estrogens. That is why it can help in ovarian cysts, blockages in the fallopian tubes or irregular menstrual periods that lead to fertility problems. In these cases, taking a few drops of pure calendula oil in a little natural orange juice is a good option.

Although there are no studies to support the use of calendula tea for fertility, many people point to its positive effects in this regard. In any case, you must take into account your particular case, we must also remember that to get pregnant it is necessary that multiple factors intervene. The best decision to make for your well-being is to attend your specialist doctor and verify the advisability or not of taking calendula tea to get pregnant.

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Calendula as a mosquito repellent

In summer or spring especially, we can find a great complication in the garden: the unpleasant insects. In addition to causing us discomfort, large populations of insects can cause serious problems in the garden when they are not controlled. Calendula is a powerful anti-mosquito, which works in an ecological and natural way to ward off mosquitoes.

It is ideal for gardens, people who work with vegetables such as: peppers, aubergines, cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, leeks, endive, potatoes, onions, carrots or garlic, etc. Calendula is an excellent repellent against bed bugs, aphids, nematode worms, white fly and asparagus beetle.

It serves to significantly alleviate the discomfort caused by mosquito bites. In addition to repelling insects, this plant benefits the garden. In calendula, pharmaceutical companies have found an oil that benefits wound healing . To be sure of the marigold’s survival, it is essential to provide it with well-drained soil. When the flowers fade, cut them back to improve growth.

We can add that calendula is widely used as a flavoring thanks to its power to repel insects. It is usually added in lotions, spray, candles for this purpose; This is due to the pungent aroma given off by calendula.

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Calendula infusions and their benefits

Calendula infusions are quite beneficial to treat and alleviate some ailments, thanks to their antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

• Calendula reduces inflammation: Calendula extract helps reduce inflammation in some body areas, in addition to preventing the deterioration of cells.
• Relieves cramps: thanks to the spasmodic properties of the infused calendula, it helps in certain cramps caused by a spasmodic infection or by menstruation. Add calendula to your diet, it is a wise decision.
• Stomach problems: for people suffering from vomiting or gastritis ulcers, calendula infusion is a traditional remedy that cannot be absent at home.
• It is excellent for oral health: canker sores, gingivitis and other oral problems can be treated with marigold infusions, thanks to the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic power of this herbaceous plant.

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Cosmetic applications of calendula

A large number of creams for the face and body contain calendula, providing important benefits to our health. Although there is also calendula oil which is an excellent support in the aesthetic and cosmetic area. If you are one of those people who like to prepare their beauty products at home, this can become your best beauty ally; because in addition to applying it to the area to be treated, you can also make calendula soaps to apply it to the body. In herbal and dietary stores you can find calendula petals so you can make a healthy facial astringent infusion. Here we show you three simple cosmetic recipes that you can prepare and use to benefit your skin.

• Cleanser for the face: for this recipe we need only 6 calendula petals, 6 tablespoons of almond oil, 1 tablespoon of cocoa butter in a container. Place all the ingredients in the fire in a bain-marie for 5 minutes, until the elements are integrated. Remove from the heat, use a strainer to remove the solid and finally place it in a dry and clean glass container. This cream does not require refrigeration and you can keep it for 6 months, every night to remove makeup from the face and eyes.
• Calendula and rose lotion as a moisturizer: Add equal parts of calendula and rose petals to a container. Add boiling water, let it sit covered overnight. In the morning you should strain the mixture and leave it in a glass jar. Store in the fridge. Use a cotton ball to apply the lotion to your face, this will help moisturize your skin.
• Calendula oil for first degree burns: for 40 days, marinate some calendula flowers in a liter of olive oil. Store in a warm place, try not to expose it to the sun. It is an excellent option to treat and relieve superficial and homemade burns.

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Medicinal uses of calendula

We have already talked about some uses of calendula, we could not forget some medicinal uses of this wonderful plant.

How does it help against cancer?

Currently, research related to calendula and its effectiveness for the treatment of cancer cells continues. Calendula combined with Scorzonera humilis L. , Echinea purpurea and Aconitum moldavicum , there is no positive evidence on the treatment of some kinds of cancer, according to a major university in Ukraine.

Around 250 women were studied, after breast cancer surgery they underwent radiotherapy, a calendula-based ointment was applied which decreased irritation in the epidermis, obtaining better results than another type of cream. commonly used commercial. The group of women who used the calendula cream had less pain from the radiation. Despite these studies, its efficacy has not yet been proven, so research continues regarding antiviral and anticancer actions.

For burns

Calendula is quite beneficial for reducing inflammation, treating skin burns, stimulating regeneration and calming pain, in addition to recovering the skin very well.

Against urinary infection

There are multiple cases where the urine infection becomes persistent, different antibiotics are even used, but cystitis continues to recur. An infusion of calendula in these cases where the infection is chronic is quite effective. You should only use the infusion 3 times a day to regularly wash the affected area , the calendula infusion should be applied cold.

Thanks to its fungicidal and antiseptic action, calendula is highly recommended by gynecologists to reduce pain during menstruation and to treat infections. It works effectively in the uncontrolled production of candida (a fungus responsible for vaginal infections).

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Eliminates oral bacteria

The antibacterial properties of this plant have popularized its use in hygiene and health products such as mouthwashes, toothpastes, shampoos and soaps. Calendula toothpaste mouthwashes are quite effective in eliminating the bacteria that cause cavities and gingivitis

Improves vision

Some antioxidant compounds in calendula help improve certain problems that affect vision . Beta-carotene is vital for the proper functioning of the eyes and for our health, which is why calendula is so wonderful for vision, as it is rich in antioxidants. In this way, you can avoid the development of cataracts and prevent macular degeneration .

Culinary uses of calendula

• Calendula is used in cooking, mainly the petals and young leaves in salad. To make capers, the flower buds are pickled in vinegar and the petals are used to color some cheeses.
• You can prepare a rich yogurt or white cheese sauce, with chopped vegetables and oil, pepper, salt, calendula petals and a little lemon.
• The most tender leaves are not only used to prepare them in salads, if you prefer you can use them to add color to your desserts, as a flavoring, in rice, cake, etc. Calendula was formerly used to replace saffron.

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Calendula contraindications and risks

Like any other medicinal plant, excessive consumption of calendula or by patients prone to certain allergies, can cause certain damages. That is why you should be aware of the contraindications related to calendula:

• Due to the few studies on the use of calendula during lactation and pregnancy, specialists suggest avoiding the consumption of this herbaceous plant in these stages. The regularizing or emmenagogue effect on menstruation could exhibit a problem . Regardless of the case, when avoiding dangers in pregnancy, it is best to act prudently.
• Some people can be affected by an allergic reaction when they come into direct contact with this plant, even by ingesting an infusion of calendula.
• Coming in contact with calendula, specifically with the leaves, can cause rashes or dermatitis in people allergic or sensitive to a certain component of calendula.
• Calendula contains tannins, a component with high stomach irritant potential , high doses of calendula should be avoided, in addition to oral treatments.
• Ask your doctor about the use of calendula while you are taking any drug treatment, since according to certain studies it has been found that calendula stimulates the sleeping effect of common sedatives.
• The use of calendula in infusions can have negative effects on your menstrual cycle, therefore the warning during lactation stages and during pregnancy. In addition to the possibility of interfering with fertility if it is used by both men and women.
• You should never place the preparations of this plant in open cuts without the supervision of a doctor. You must follow the doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage to reduce the probable risks.
• Normally when using calendula to drink, the tincture is usually recommended only between 5 and a maximum of 10 drops 3 times a day; from 0.5 to 1ml 3 times a day the fluid extract and the calendula tea only one tablespoon of the dried plant in a maximum of 3 cups a day.

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Nutritional value of calendula

This plant has high nutritional value, thanks to the organic acids, carotenoids, mucilages, essential oil and ferments that collaborate in the improvement and treatment of different ailments related to the skin.