I love using calendula in my products, in many different forms. This often brings up some questions, and I love to answer them!

What is Calendula?

Calendula is a flowering plant, often referred to as marigold. Calendula officianalis is the most common species with in the genus. All members of the "marigold family" have certain qualities, compounds, and/or substances that make them valuable around the world.

What Parts of the Plant Are Helpful?

Calendula plants contain a chemical extract that is rich in many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds. This extract can be removed from the green parts of the plant (stems and leaves).

The petals of the plant are edible! They have been traditionally used for years in tea, soup, salads, and more.

Moral of the story? The whole plant is pretty awesome.

Skin Care Uses

Calendula, and the oil extracted from the plant, is known to have many healing properties. The antioxidant qualities of calendula can reduce the appearance of signs of aging, scars, and stretch marks. It is believed to be helpful in evening out and toning the skin, all while soothing your skin. Consuming calendula in forms such as tea can be another great way to get this amazing flower working for you.

Calendula Tea

Turning calendula into tea can be another great way to help your body and mind. For some uses, you don't even have to drink it!

Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

• Use a washcloth soaked in tea as a compress to help skin conditions such as bug bites, scrapes, eczema, and more.
• Apply with a washcloth or towel to help heal diaper rash.
• Use as a mouth rinse or gargle to help with canker sores, sore throat, and inflamed gums.
• Use as a face wash, or the liquid component of a face mask, for those prone to acne breakouts.
• Use as a foot soak to help with aching feet, or for fungal problems (like athlete's foot)

Updated 1.26.20