Calendula

the flower of calendula (Calendulae flos)

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is an annual with vivid orange or yellow heads, which flowers from June until the first frosts and seeds itself in the garden. The flowers close in the evening and before rain, an old countryman's sign of the weather. It grows in gardens and beds, and needs sun.

The flower heads, or only the ray florets, are gathered at midday in dry weather, when they are open; the gathering is repeated every week, because the more flowers are taken, the more the plant flowers. They are dried quickly and in the shade, spread out in a single layer, because the centre holds moisture and the flower can go mouldy.

For ointments the flowers are macerated in oil or fat. In Ašič's collection the flower of calendula appears in Calendula Ointment, Calendula Drops and the HepaSIT blend.

Use and evidence

The EMA recognises traditional external use for mild inflammation of the skin, minor wounds and mild inflammation of the mouth and throat. It does not treat cancer, internal bleeding or severe infections. EMA 1, EMA 2.