Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis

Plant Family

Asteraceae

Botanical Description

Pot Marigold is an annual or short-lived perennial growing 30-50 cm tall. It has sticky, aromatic, spatula-shaped leaves and bright orange or yellow daisy-like flower heads 4-7 cm across. The ray florets are edible and medicinal. Flowers bloom continuously from early summer to frost if deadheaded regularly.

Cautions

Generally very safe. Avoid during pregnancy in medicinal doses. May cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to Asteraceae family plants.

Habitat

Gardens, cultivated areas, waste ground. Native to Mediterranean region.

Harvest Instructions

Harvest flower heads when fully open on dry mornings after dew has evaporated. Pick regularly to encourage continued flowering.

Geographic Distribution

Cultivated worldwide. Originally from Southern Europe and the Mediterranean.

Growth Conditions

Full sun to partial shade. Tolerates poor soil but prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Hardy and easy to grow.

Plant Size

30-50 cm

Pests & Diseases

May be affected by powdery mildew, aphids, or whiteflies. Generally robust.

Effects on the Body

Excellent wound healer, reduces inflammation, fights infection, supports lymphatic drainage. Used internally and externally for skin conditions, wounds, and minor infections.

Active Constituents

Triterpene saponins, flavonoids (quercetin, rutin), carotenoids, essential oil, resin, mucilage, bitter compounds.

Safety Information

Dosage

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons dried flowers in 250 ml boiling water, steep 10-15 minutes. Tincture: 1-4 ml three times daily. External: Apply as cream, oil, or compress as needed.

Culinary Use

Petals can be added to salads, rice dishes, and baked goods for color. Sometimes called 'poor man's saffron' as a food coloring.

Folklore & Historical Use

Used since ancient times in Mediterranean cultures. Associated with the sun and used in religious ceremonies. Called 'Mary's Gold' in medieval Europe.

Scientific Research

A 2019 systematic review (Givol et al.) evaluated 7 clinical trials on wound healing, finding moderate evidence for faster resolution of inflammation and increased granulation tissue formation. European Medicines Agency (EMA) approved for minor wounds and skin inflammation. Multiple clinical trials support anti-inflammatory effects through inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α).