Calendula Ayurveda (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula Ayurveda is a multi-purpose plant that has been used for its medicinal, culinary and cosmetic qualities and as a dye. Used in salves and ointments, calendula is a powerful skin healer. Its main culinary use is as an edible flower decoration. You can add to salads, soups and muffins the petals of calendula flowers in bright colors and delicate flavors, fresh or dried. The more expensive saffron can be exchanged for dried and crushed calendula.

Calendula Ayurveda

History of Medicinal Plants Calendula Ayurveda

The ancient Romans grew calendula mainly for its ornamental qualities and also as a remedy for scorpion stings. In medieval households, calendula flowers were often used in soups, salads, puddings and wine. Although used in folk medicine, calendula was never considered a major medicinal plant. Instead, he was most revered for his magical qualities. Potions made from calendula were believed to give their drinkers the ability to see fairies or choose between potential suitors.

Calendula Ayurveda in the Garden

Also known as marigolds, calendula is an easy-to-grow, long-blooming annual. A sun-loving plant, it is said that you can predict the weather by its blossoms: if they don't open in the early morning hours, it's a forecast for rain. The plant typically grows 6 to 18 inches (15-45 cm) tall and blooms from June to October. Some of the most recent kinds produce beautiful cut flowers and have stronger stems that can reach 30 inches (75 cm) in length. The centers of the flowers are different, some are light and others are dark, creating a beautiful contrast in the garden.

Calendula Ayurveda Health Benefits

With antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and immune-stimulating properties, calendula is perfectly designed to soothe and heal the skin. It is mainly used in external preparations for countless skin diseases. Calendula soothes cuts, bruises, diaper rash, eczema, hemorrhoids, burns, and other minor or chronic conditions. The German Committee E recommends calendula to accelerate wound healing and treat skin infections. Some doctors also recommend calendula in mouthwash to treat wounds and gingivitis. Calendula tea or tincture can be used to relieve heartburn and as part of ulcer treatment because of its ability to lower stomach acid levels.

How to Use Calendula Ayurveda

A soothing calendula skin ointment, store-bought or homemade, is a great addition to a medicine kit. A diluted calendula solution may be used externally for topical skin treatment or internally for an acidic stomach. Cooled brewed calendula tea can be used as a wash for minor skin complaints. When combined with cornstarch, dried and crushed calendula creates a wonderful base for a body powder. Many baby soaps and creams contain calendula because of its mild and soothing properties.

SOOTHING CALENDULA AYURVEDA SKIN SALVE

Use this ointment to soothe and heal minor burns, bruises, cuts and rashes.

1 cup (237 ml) calendula-infused oil
2 ounces (56 grams) beeswax, grated
4-10 drops lavender essential oil
Vitamin E capsule 200 IU

In the top of a double boiler, mix the infused oil and beeswax. Heat gently until the wax melts, stirring frequently. Take out of the heat and let cool until the touch.

Add the lavender essential oil and the contents of a vitamin E capsule. Pour the mixture into small containers. The paste will solidify as it cools.

Note: The ratio between oil and beeswax is flexible and varies according to personal preference. To test the consistency of the paste, place a spoonful of the beeswax mixture on a spoon and put it in the freezer for a minute. If you want a firmer paste, add more grated beeswax. For a softer soup, add more oil.

Calendula Ayurveda Infused oil

You can use the infused oil on its own for topical healing of minor skin irritations.

2 parts extra virgin olive oil
1 part of dried calendula flowers
Mix the olive oil and calendula flowers in the top of a double boiler. Cook gently for about an hour.
Filter the cooled mixture through a double layer of cheesecloth. Store in a cool, dark place, where it will keep for 3 to 6 months.

Safety and Warnings for Calendula Ayurveda

James Duke, botanist and author, notes that people who have hay fever may have an allergic reaction to this herb, especially if taken internally; He advises a person to stop taking it as soon as any itch or other discomfort appears. Calendula can be taken in regular doses with no known health risks or adverse effects, according to the PDR for Herbal Medicines.