Calendula

At a Glance

Common name

Calendula

Scientific name

Calendula officinalis

Family

Asteraceae

Region

Mediterranean

Plant part

Flower petals, Whole flower heads

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An annual or short-lived perennial 30–50 cm tall with bright golden-orange, multi-layered ray flowers and a central disc, and broad, sticky oval leaves. The petals are the primary medicinal part.

Also known as: Pot Marigold, Marigold

Historical Background

Calendula has been used since antiquity as a skin-healing, digestive, and culinary herb — its petals colored broths, cheeses, and skin salves. It was a staple of medieval European gardens and monastic medicine and remains a cornerstone of Western skin herbalism.

Earliest recorded uses: Arab, Greek, and Roman physicians used calendula for wounds and skin; medieval European herbals kept it for skin and fever.

Cultural significance: Named for the Latin calends (the first of the month, when it was said to bloom), calendula symbolized constancy and was sacred in Mexican Day of the Dead celebrations; the petals were a cheap saffron substitute.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Warm, floral, faintly honeyed

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Calendula has a long tradition in wound and skin care and is supported by a few small trials suggesting improved healing of skin wounds and reduction of radiation dermatitis in cancer treatment, though evidence is limited. Internal effects are less studied. It is not a treatment for serious skin disease.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.