What Is Calendula Used for?

Benefits

• The dried petals of the calendula flower are used in preparations including creams, ointments and liquid extracts. The herb reduces pain and swelling when it is applied to the skin. It also speeds the healing of injuries, burns and leg ulcers by increasing the amount of blood flow to the injured part of the body and by helping the body produce collagen, a protein that repairs damaged tissue.

Properties

• Calendula has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains plant chemicals called flavonoids that protect the body against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that disrupt normal cell growth.

Considerations

• Calendula can trigger a skin rash or other allergic reaction in people who are allergic to ragweed. The herb causes drowsiness; do not use calendula in combination with other medications or sedatives that also cause sleepiness. Stop using calendula at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery. Couples trying to conceive should not use this herb, because it affects the menstrual cycle.