Calendula

A member of the marigold family, calendula is one of the most versatile and well-researched healing herbs. Extensive scientific investigation has shown that calendula is a potent antioxidant and antibacterial agent. In addition, calendula helps ease inflammation, encourages tissue regeneration, speeds new blood vessel growth, and helps kill viruses. Calendula is excellent for soothing and healing cuts, bruises, rashes, dermatitis, and other minor skin irritations.

CALENDULA WAS NAMED HERB OF THE YEAR 2008 BY THE INTERNATIONAL HERB ASSOCIATION

The rejuvenating and anti-inflammatory properties of Calendula make it an excellent addition to all skin care products, particularily those designed to soothe, heal, and protect skin. Calendula increases blood flow which stimulates skin cell and blood vessel repair. It also combats infection, treats minor swelling (i.e. burns, stings, blisters), and helps restore reverse sun damage and free radical formation.

1. Marigold. PDRhealth (Physicians’s Desk Reference Health). Can be accessed online at http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/herbaldrugs/101840.shtml

2. Protective properties of butanolic extract of the Calendula officinalis L. (marigold) against lipid peroxidation of rat liver microsomes and action as free radical scavenger. Cordova, C. A. et al., Redox Report: Communications in free radical research, 2002;7(2):95-102.

3. Protective effects of different marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) and rosemary cream preparations against sodium-lauryl-sulfate-induced irritant contact dermatitis. Fuchs, S. M. et al., Skin Pharmacology and Psysiology, 2005 Jul-Aug;18(4):195-200.

4. Phase III randomized trial of Calendula officinalis compared with trolamine for the prevention of acute dermatitis during irradiation for breast cancer. Pommier P. et al., Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2004 Apr 15;22(8):1447-53.

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