Calendula benefit

Calendula (sometimes called pot marigold) can be a very successful treatment for healing the skin of variety of problems, including wounds, infections, rashes, and different irritations. It is a great item to keep in your medicine cabinet.

Calendula contains an oil based substance or lipophilic extract and water based substance or hyrdrophilic extracts that contain certain chemicals that benefit the healing of the skin.

They contain saponins, which are where most of the surface benefits of calendula come from. Saponins are the lipophilic (oil) based substance in calendula. This is why you will find ointments, shampoos, soaps, and other surface area products containing saponins. Saponins have also been known to lower cholesterol.

It is often used internally as an anti-inflammatory to deal with ulcers, digestion, and immune system help. In these substances you will find flavonoids, which are the hydrophilic substance and are great for anti-inflammatory and antioxidants uses.

What is Calendula

Calendula is a yellow flower that looks like a dandelion that has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. It draws strong comparisons to a marigold and the leaves are considered edible. They are also where you will find the medicinal qualities. It is often used as an ointment or cream when applied to different wounds. If you plan on using the ointment it is suggested to apply it liberally in the area of irritation. The ointment should not be too difficult to find in a health food store or even healthy section of a grocery store.

Calendula can also be purchased as a tea where many people drink it 2-3 times per day. There are few side effects of calendula, however, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before taking this as tea or applying it as an ointment.