The pharmaceutical Calendula.
Also known as: marigold, desert marigold and marsh marigold.
The name of Calendula (Calendula Officinalis) has taken its name from the latin word “calendae”, which means Calendar due to the plant’s long blooming period.
It is an annual and perennial herbaceous plant, 20-60cm high with yellow or orange flowers.
Cultivated very often, in the gardens as a decorative plant.
The main active substances are: resins, sterols and flavonoids.
History and Mythology
There are references, which shows that possibly the Ancient Greeks and Persians used the flower petal in their dishes. They were making a special drink by mixing Calendula’s flowers with wine, which helped them cure indigestion.
The Romans were using a mix of Calendula with Vinegar to flavor meat and salads. The petals with their slightly aromatic and bitter taste, taste fish and meat soups, rice dishes, salads and give a yellow color to cheeses and butter.
The whole flower used as a garnish in Medieval dishes.
Traditional Medicine
Calendula was used in the America’s civil war. The plants were applied directly to wounds to cure them.
Today the plant is being investigated for its anticancer properties.
The flowers of Calendula considered to be beneficial for inflammations, the rapid cure of a wound and for its antiseptic effect.
They used to minor burn and skin irritation.
When someone takes it internal as a tea can confront stomach ulcer and inflammation.
Preparation :
Boil the herb in water for 10-15 minutes (5gr Calandula per tea cup).
Precautions:
Should be avoided during pregnancy.
You should avoid take Calendula if you use tranquillizers.
Last but not least, Calendula plants are known to cause allergic reactions. Avoid to use the palnt, if you are sensitive in plants of the Asteraceae/Comositae family, like chrysanthemums, marigold, daises.
