What is Calendula?
Calendula or Marigold can be found growing in gardens—its botanical name is Calendula officinalis. Even though Marigolds are common plants, few people are aware of their excellent medicinal value.
History of Calendula
According to German fables, the weather can be predicted accurately by observing these golden flowers. If they remain closed after seven o’clock in the morning, rain is on the way, but if they open before 7am, it should be a fine day!
According to German fables, the weather can be predicted accurately by observing these golden flowers. If they remain closed after seven o’clock in the morning, rain is on the way, but if they open before 7am, it should be a fine day!
Medicinal Properties & Benefits of Calendula
Calendula has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, and is useful in digestive remedies because it stimulates the flow of bile, which is necessary for proper digestion.
Calendula also has anti-inflammatory properties that help prevent inflammation and promote healing in gastritis, enteritis and stomach ulcers. As a blood cleanser, it is a great help in infectious hepatitis.
Herbal Uses of Calendula
Some herbalists even believe that drinking calendula tea can work miracles! In recent years, the unique healing quality of calendula in cancer illnesses has been noted by many European and American physicians.
Renowned Austrian herbalist, Maria Treben writes:
“If it is too late for an operation, the daily drinking of Calendula tea for prolonged periods is recommended. The freshly pressed juice of the flowers can be used successfully, even in cancer of the skin, pigment spots, warts, scabies and cancer-like skin patches.”
Nicholas Culpeper (1616-1654) also notes:
“It is a good remedy for varicose veins, excellent for the circulation and so safe that its use can be prolonged indefinitely.”
Calendula Tea Recipe
In cases of Crohn’s disease, Colitis and Inflammatory Bowel disease, the following mixture can be recommended:
- 100g Calendula
- 50g Stinging nettle
- 50g Yarrow
Directions:
- Place the above herbs in an airtight container, mix and shake well, and store the mixture in a dark place.
- Infuse one heaped tsp of herbs with one cup of boiling water for approximately three to five minutes and strain.
- Drink 6 cups a day, the first on an empty stomach.
In addition, take one tbsp of Swedish Bitters three times daily, ½ tbsp before food and ½ tbsp after food.
Find out more about the medicinal benefits of calendula and other plants through enrolling in our Online Herbal Medicine Course today!