Calendula, Mixed

Calendula (Pot Marigold)

Calendula officinalis

Botanical Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)

Botanical Description

Calendula officinalis is an easy annual (sometimes short-lived perennial in mild climates) growing 30-60cm tall. The slightly sticky, aromatic leaves are spoon-shaped. Flower heads are classic daisies in shades of yellow to deep orange, opening and closing with the sun. The ray florets are the medicinal part. Seeds are distinctive curved shapes resembling tiny caterpillars.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Vulnerary, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, lymphatic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue.

Traditional uses: Used since ancient times for wound healing, skin conditions, and digestive complaints. The orange color indicates high carotenoid content. Called “poor man’s saffron” as the petals were used to color food.

Modern applications: Calendula is one of the most widely used herbs in natural skincare – creams, salves, and oils. Also used internally for digestive inflammation and lymphatic support.

Body Systems Affected

Integumentary: Premier wound-healing herb – cuts, burns, rashes, eczema, and general skin care.

Lymphatic: Supports lymphatic drainage; used for swollen glands.

Digestive: Soothes inflammation in the digestive tract; used for gastritis and ulcers.

Reproductive: Traditional emmenagogue; used for menstrual support.

Safety Information

Excellent safety profile for internal and external use.

Allergies: Those allergic to Asteraceae family may react (rare).

Pregnancy: Avoid internal use during pregnancy due to emmenagogue effects. External use is generally considered safe.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Annual in most zones. Tolerates light frost.

Light: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Average, well-drained soil. Not fussy.

Sowing: Direct sow in spring after last frost, or start indoors earlier. Very easy.

Spacing: 25-30cm apart.

Tip: Deadhead for continuous blooming, or allow some to self-seed.

Harvesting

Part used: Flower heads (ray florets specifically).

When to harvest: When fully open, on dry mornings after dew has evaporated.

Method: Regular harvesting promotes more blooms. Harvest every few days throughout season.

Drying & Storage

Dry quickly on screens or in a dehydrator at 35°C (95°F) to preserve color. Flowers should remain bright orange when properly dried. Store in airtight containers away from light for up to 1 year. Resinous quality means they can clump – this is normal.