Calendula (calendula officinalis or pot marigold) is a widely loved botanical in skin care and for good reason. Its medicinal properties range from inflammatory concerns to antioxidant benefits. While its place of origin is Europe, it has become a frequent addition in other healing traditions as well, including Ayurveda.
The flowers and leaves are often used for medicinal purposes. Each part of the plant has different pharmacological properties and applications. The flowers are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, antiviral, and antihemorrhagic, while the leaves are antiviral.
Ayurvedically speaking, its qualities are light and dry; cooling to the body with an astringent and bitter taste profile, and a pungent post-digestive effect. This combination makes this botanical good for pacifying pitta and kapha doshas.
Calendula for skin
Skin protection
Due to its antioxidant properties from compounds such as flavonoids and carotenoids, this botanical can help manage oxidative processes. Oxidative processes are often linked to skin aging and damage. Research suggests that the ability of these compounds to interact with oxidative stress may be helpful in skin protection.
Skin inflammation and disorders
Its orange and yellow flowers contain triterpenoids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and other compounds. Its triterpenoid content is of particular interest to skincare researchers as it helps soothe inflammation.
This makes it suitable for calming heat-related, pitta-type skin imbalances.
Modern science is also exploring this botanical’s potential role in managing skin conditions, such as dermatitis, eczema, and acne, given its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. While research is extremely limited in this area, there are some early studies suggesting that it may help ease eczema, and result in less itching and fewer rashes.
Wound healing
Besides supporting the skin barrier in healthy skin, this botanical has been traditionally used for wound healing. Despite its long-lasting traditional use, modern research is still scarce in this area, albeit emerging. A limited number of studies are starting to support its wound healing benefits and ability to accelerate skin regrowth. A randomized trial involving 38 participants reported faster healing of acute wounds in the calendula-extract group than in the control group. Patients with second-degree burns who took 2g of calendula capsules daily showed faster tissue repair than in the placebo group. And calendula ointments applied on women after a C-section delivery had similar benefits. While results of these and other clinical studies are promising, more research is recommended on the type and delivery of these applications.
Ayurveda views skin as part of the overall system across body, mind, soul, and senses. Skin health is merely a manifestation of the state of this interconnected system. As such, it has benefits beyond the topical application on your skin. Modern science is starting to show this connection.
Beyond skin health
Digestive support
Your skin is connected to your gut and nervous system among other parts of your body. As such, Ayurveda teaches that addressing skin concerns goes deeper than your skin. It involves balancing your digestive system as well as nervous system – think of stress and sleep. Modern science is slowly starting to recognize these connections as well. In fact, research supports that marigold “may exert anti-inflammatory activity on the gastric district.”
Oral and mouth health
Pot marigold flower preparations also help relieve minor inflammation of the throat and mouth in traditional medicine. The European Medicines Agency recognizes this traditional application, including marigold infusions used as a mouth wash or gargle. However, they also note that more quantifiable evidence-based scientific research is needed.
Nervous system support
Its flower extracts show emerging evidence for potential neuroprotective and nervous system-supportive properties in pre-clinical animal studies and cellular models. For example, in a Parkinson’s study among zebrafish, this botanical was found helpful in clearing dysfunctional mitochondria and protein.
Contraindications
As always, it’s advisable to talk to a qualified healthcare practitioners before taking any supplements internally or using herbal preparations externally for medicinal purposes. Knowing what part of the botanical, in what format and quantities, how often, and when is important. For example, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, know that safety has not yet been established so the general recommendation is to avoid taking it internally. If you’re allergic to ragweeds, chamomile, daisy, and other members of the Asteracae family, avoid or limit your calendula intake. Skin sensitization may occur.
Calendula in MY24/7 by Red Pantz organic skin care
We use organic calendula in hydrosol form in two of our USDA-certified skincare products:
Our thoughtful formulations only include high-quality ingredients from trusted sources to help ensure that each application supports your skin as much as possible.
Explore more herbs and their benefits for skin care in our Organic Skincare Hub.
Key takeaways
- Calendula contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
It has been typically used for skin health, including skin protection, skin inflammation and conditions, and wound healing.
Research has shown promising results for wound healing, but more clinical studies are needed.
It is used in Ayurveda-inspired skin care and is traditionally used in European herbal medicine.
In addition to skincare applications, this botanical is also used for digestive support, oral and mouth health, and nervous system support.
The plant’s preparation, dosage, and route of use influence its potential benefits and safety.
Frequently asked questions about calendula
What is calendula used for?
It is used in skin care, particularly in products intended to soothe irritated skin. Traditional uses also include minor wound healing and minor inflammation of the mouth and throat.
Is calendula good for sensitive skin?
It is commonly used in skin care formulated for sensitive or irritated skin. Individual responses can vary, and skin sensitization is possible.
What does Ayurveda say about calendula?
Contemporary Ayurvedic sources describe calendula as light, dry, and cooling, with astringent and bitter tastes. These properties are used to explain its traditional interpretation as pacifying pitta and kapha.
Can calendula be taken internally?
It is used in some traditional herbal preparations, but safety depends on the preparation and circumstances. Avoid internal use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised by a qualified healthcare professional.
Why does MY24/7 by Red Pantz use calendula in its formulations?
MY24/7 by Red Pantz uses calendula hydrosol in two USDA-certified organic skin care products: White Rose – Calendula Gel Cleanser, organic and Hylaberry Plumping Serum, MWO. This botanical is valued for its soothing properties and traditional use in skin care, making it a thoughtful addition to formulations designed to support healthy-looking skin.
Image by arnaud audoin, Pexels
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