Imagine an ordinary summer garden. What do you see? Perhaps some roses, a few shrubs, green grass and… bright orange or yellow flowers that look like little suns caught in a frame. That is precisely what the common marigold (Calendula officinalis) is. For many people, it is simply a pretty addition to flowerbeds, but in fact it is one of the most powerful and versatile herbs that nature has to offer.
If you’re interested in natural cosmetics or skincare, or if you simply want to know how to treat a few common problems without having to rush straight to the chemist’s, read on. Calendula is, in fact, an absolute ‘must-have’ from the plant world.
What on earth is it?
Calendula is an annual plant with flowers that come in every shade from yellow to deep orange. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but today it can be found growing almost everywhere in the world. It is an exceptionally hardy plant; all it needs is a little sun and water, and it will reward you with abundant blooms from early spring until late autumn.
Its Latin name, Calendula, is derived from the Roman word ‘kalendae’, which meant the first day of the month. The Romans had noticed that the marigold blooms almost every month of the year in their climate.
Why is it important, and what are its ‘superpowers’?
Calendula is not important simply because it attracts bees and butterflies. Its true value lies in its medicinal properties. It contains essential oils, flavonoids, carotenoids and antioxidants. Thanks to all these components, it acts as a natural protective shield.
As this plant has a wide range of uses, we can use it to treat various problems and ailments that trouble us.
1. Skin healing and combating acne: If you suffer from acne, minor grazes, sunburn or dry skin, calendula could be your best friend. It has powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It promotes the formation of new skin cells, so wounds heal faster and leave less scarring.
2. Soothing inflammation: Calendula tea is often used to treat a sore throat.
3. Aids digestion: It has a beneficial effect on the stomach and liver. If you have a stomach ache after a heavy meal, a cup of marigold tea can help.
Calendula as a dietary supplement
However, the benefits of calendula are not limited to applying it to the skin or drinking warm tea. In today’s world of healthy living, it has also established a firm place in dietary supplements.
As marigold is literally packed with antioxidants and carotenoids (such as lutein and zeaxanthin), manufacturers process it into extracts, capsules or drops.
Why should you consider it in this form as well?
Eye protection: Lutein and zeaxanthin are key nutrients for the health of our eyes. They help protect our eyes from fatigue caused by blue light from screens and help maintain the eyes’ vitality.
Strong immunity: Thanks to their high antioxidant content, calendula capsules help the body combat oxidative stress and strengthen its natural defences.
Internal balance: It contributes to the normal functioning of the bowels and stomach and supports liver health, which ultimately results in clearer skin. In short, calendula heals from the inside out.
Dr LUCULLUS has incorporated calendula, for example, into the premium dietary supplement ‘Eye Support’, which is designed to provide overall support and protection for eyesight. Thanks to its unique formulation, it helps reduce eye strain, which you may experience after long hours in front of a computer. The combination of ingredients works synergistically to help prevent eye irritation and the deterioration of eyesight.
The Golden Miracle
One of the best and most popular ways to use this plant is to make calendula oil. It may sound rather luxurious, but it’s surprisingly easy to make and the result is priceless.
Calendula oil is not, in fact, a pure essential oil extracted from the flowers. It is produced through a process known as maceration.
How does it work?
Dried or slightly wilted marigold flowers are placed in a high-quality carrier oil – such as olive, almond or sunflower oil. This mixture is left to stand in a sunny spot for several weeks.During this time, the oil ‘absorbs’ all the medicinal substances and pigments from the flowers, giving it a beautiful golden-orange colour. Finally, the mixture is strained and the miraculous oil is ready.
Calendula oil is the perfect skincare product. You can use it on dry lips, chapped skin on your hands, or add it to your body lotion. It is also often used to make the well-known calendula ointments. It is so gentle that it is commonly used even on the most sensitive skin. If you ever get sunburnt in the summer, applying calendula oil will immediately soothe your skin and reduce redness.
Interesting facts you (probably) didn’t know
To ensure it’s not just about its medicinal properties, the marigold also has a fascinating history:
Fake saffron: In the Middle Ages, marigold flowers were used to colour food (such as cheese, butter or soups) to make it look as though it contained expensive saffron.
Natural weather forecast: The marigold is very sensitive to changes in pressure and humidity. If its flowers do not open by seven o’clock in the morning, it is very likely that it will rain that day.
Magical protection: In the past, people believed that scattering marigold petals under the bed would protect them from bad dreams and thus ensure a peaceful night’s sleep.
Calendula is clear proof that the greatest treasures are often right under our noses. It is not just an ordinary flower for decoration, but a comprehensive natural remedy. Whether you opt for the classic remedy of homemade oil for tired skin, treat yourself to it in the form of a modern dietary supplement, or simply brew yourself a warm cup of tea after a hard day – calendula will show you just how much power nature possesses.
