Calendula (Pot Marigold) — FarmPal
The ultimate skin-healing herb. Beautiful orange and yellow flowers for garden and medicine chest.
Solid evidence for wound healing and skin conditions. Traditional use strongly supported by modern research on anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial skin applications.
- Wound Repair and Regeneration 2024
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2024 review
- Cochrane review on radiation dermatitis
Medicinal Properties
Parts Used
Traditional Uses
- •Wound healing (cuts, scrapes, burns)
- •Skin conditions (eczema, rashes)
- •Diaper rash and cradle cap
- •Chapped lips and dry skin
- •Minor infections
- •Mouth sores (as mouthwash)
Preparations
Fill jar with dried petals. Cover with olive oil. Solar infuse 4-6 weeks or use double boiler method for 2-3 hours.
Dosage: Apply topically to affected areas 2-3 times daily
Warm 1 cup calendula oil, add 1 oz beeswax until melted. Pour into tins. Add vitamin E for preservation.
Dosage: Apply to wounds, rashes, dry skin as needed
Steep 2 tbsp dried petals in 8 oz hot water for 10-15 minutes. Can use as compress or drink.
Dosage: 1-3 cups daily. Use cooled tea as skin wash or compress.
Fill jar with fresh flowers, cover with vodka. 4-6 weeks.
Dosage: 30-60 drops internally or diluted topically
Harvesting Guide
Timing: Harvest flowers when fully open, mid-morning after dew dries.
Method: Pinch or cut just below the flower head. Harvest regularly for continuous blooms.
Drying: Spread on screens. Dry at 95-100°F. Takes several days petals should be papery.
⚠️ Cautions
- •May cause allergic reaction in those allergic to daisy family
- •Avoid during pregnancy (may stimulate menstruation)
- •Generally considered very safe for external use
- •Patch test on small area before widespread use