Marigold Flowers
Calendula officinalis – loose – 50g – £3.20
Benefits
- rashes
- allergies
- eczema
- dermatitis
- pain
- swelling and redness caused from muscle cramps
- muscular injuries or sprains
- eye inflammation and itchiness caused by conjunctivitis – antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and immuno-stimulating properties and protects vision
- fungal infections – athlete’s foot, candida
- ear infections
- ringworm
- antiseptic properties – a drop into a bacterial ear infection after a few days will lower infection
- muscle cramps
the following are some of the active ingredients found in marigolds (calendula)
- Plant sterols known as calendulin
- Calendic acid
- Polysaccharides
- Linoleic acid
- Carotenoids
- Flavonoids
- Triterpenes saponins, such as triterpenoid
- Tocopherols
- Oleanolic acid glycoside
Marigold’s active chemicals make it a natural cytotoxic, hepatoprotective and spasmogenic herb it helps fight bacteria in wounds, lowers cytokine levels, defends against infections. One of the most important uses of calendula has been applying it to irritated skin (eyelids and elsewhere) to reduce itchiness, redness, sensitivity, dryness and swelling.
calendula is used topically in order to:
- reduce nappy rash and protect sensitive skin
- decrease the appearance of discoloration due to scarring
- reduce unsightly varicose veins
- treat swollen bug bites
- treat burns
- reduce dermatitis and eczema
- reduce bruises
- heal infected cuts
- soothe skin after shaving
- treat ingrown hairs
- reduce dandruff on the scalp
- decrease other signs of poor blood flow and inflammation affecting the skin
INFUSION add 1 tablespoon dried flowers to a pot of boiling water – let infuse for 20 minutes – strain and drink several cups a day heated up
WARNING please do not take marigold (calendula) if you have an allergy to ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums, chamomile, echinacea and other plants in the same family as marigolds