Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is an easy to grow herb that can heal physical and emotional wounds.

Calendula is part of the Asteraceae family which includes dandelions, daisies, and chrysanthemums. It is the original Marigold and is also known as Pot Marigold.

Calendula Energy

Calendula is projective in nature. It corresponds to the energy of the Sun and the element of fire.

The energy center at your solar plexus is balanced by the energy of calendula.

Calendula Medicine

Calendula is astringent, anti-inflammatory, and vulnerary.

It is good for inflammation in the digestive tract. I have personally used calendula to heal my own bleeding stomach ulcers.

Abrasions, bruises, and burns benefit from a topical application.

Calendula can help reduce inflammation in hemorrhoidal tissue.

The support calendula offers to the energy center at your solar plexus can reduce the effects of emotional wounding to self-confidence and drive.

How to Grow

Calendula is a flowering annual that grows on a coarse, erect stem with many branches with many long, smooth edged and oblong leaves. Blossoms are pale yellow to deep orange, range from a petal appearance to a cushion, and close at night.

As you may be able to tell from the name, Calendula grows well in a container. They prefer full sun but tolerate shade, especially when the weather is hot.

Calendula has a long flowering season but will struggle to produce during late summer in warmer climates.

Start calendula from seeds indoors before the last frost of your season or outdoors after.

How to Use

Infuse whole calendula flowers in water to create a tea or for use in a compress for minor injuries, rashes, and eczema.  

Infuse whole calendula flowers in oil. Combine the oil with beeswax for a salve that can be applied to burns, rashes, and wounds.

Calendula is as edible as it is medicinal. Use calendula blossoms to brighten a salad. Sauté calendula together with spinach. Add calendula to brighten the color of soup or stew.

Summary

Marigold once referred to calendula and it is still known as pot marigold in some places.

Calendula is a culinary herb with medicinal benefits that include reducing inflammation and accelerating the healing process of wounded tissue.

The best benefits come from using the whole calendula flower, not just the petals.

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My posts are written without the assistance of AI.

The information included in this post should not be used as medical advice. Seek immediate assistance from a licensed professional in the case of a medical emergency. Consult with your physician regarding medical questions