Don't sacrifice Marigold!!

This article is not as dramatic as the title may suggest!  Those of you who are keen gardeners will be familiar with potentially using Marigold (Calendula officinalis) as a sacrificial plant to deter pests from crops such as carrots and tomatoes.  These vibrant and aromatic plants invite flying insects into the garden to aid pollination, and they are a tasty meal for creatures such as slugs.  The phytochemicals (e.g. flavonoids and volatile oils) that combine to create the bright colours and strong aroma of Calendula contain key medicinal properties that can be indicated for many patients and many conditions.  It is a great external first aid remedy for cuts, bruises, burns, strains and sprains, and can also be used topically to treat ulcers, sores and varicose veins.  With its moisturising, anti-inflammatory healing properties, Calendula creams and oils can be used as face and body moisturisers to sooth inflamed, sore and red skin.  In fact, it is a great base ingredient for the dreaded nappy rash!  When taken internally as a tea or a tincture (alcohol extraction), Calendula can help to treat swollen lymph glands, tonsilitis, and hormonal breast tenderness.  It’s healing properties can soothe inflammation in the digestive tract helping to alleviate symptoms of gastritis and can aid with diarrhoea and lose stools as well as urinary irritation.  A high-strength alcohol extraction draws out the resinous qualities of the plant and this can be added to creams and lotions to treat fungal infections such as athletes’ foot and ringworm.  The tea is a lovely vibrant yellow, it is slightly bitter when taken on its own, but has a soothing demulcent quality and the bitters help to improve digestive function by stimulating the liver and gallbladder.  If you’re not a fan of drinking herbal tea, you can always bathe in it!! Yes, you can make a very strong infusion of the tea and add to your bath (or as a hand or foot bath) to reduce skin inflammation and aid healing.  Calendula is a wonderful, versatile, soothing, but powerful herb that can used in a range of ways, so let’s celebrate Marigold not sacrifice her!!

Nb. While Calendula is a gentle herb, it should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the alcohol form, and avoided in the first trimester.  Please consult a qualified medical herbalist before internal use (especially with the tincture and if you are taking other medications) and for use with children and babies.