Calendula (Field Marigold)
Calendula is a gentle, skin-loving flower used topically in salves, balms, and washes for irritated or dry skin. It’s one of the most common herbs in ‘comfort skin’ formulas because it’s soothing and generally well tolerated. Calendula can also be used as a mild tea for internal soothing, but its strongest reputation is topical.
Key Benefits
- Topical support for dry, irritated, or sensitive skin
- Supports minor wound and scrape comfort (topical; supportive)
- Soothing for diaper-area or friction irritation (topical; supportive)
- Can be used as a gentle wash or compress for skin comfort
Common Issues It May Help With
- Dry skin
- Minor skin irritation
- Chapped skin
- Minor scrapes (topical support)
How To Use (Simple)
- Topical: use calendula-infused oil in salves/balms, or brew a strong tea and use as a cooled wash/compress. Tea: steep 1–2 tsp dried petals for 10 minutes
- drink occasionally as tolerated. Patch test topical products if you have sensitive skin.
Taste / Notes
Mild, slightly floral and earthy (as tea).
Evidence Level
Traditional and clinical topical use supports soothing/comfort for minor irritation; evidence varies by preparation. Strongest use-case is topical comfort support.
Cautions
Generally well tolerated. If allergic to Asteraceae family plants (ragweed), use caution. Avoid applying any product to deep wounds or serious burns—seek medical care. Pregnancy/breastfeeding: tea and topical use are generally considered low risk, but use medicinal doses only with clinician guidance.
Interactions
No major drug interactions with topical use If taking sedatives, calendula tea is usually mild but may add relaxation in sensitive individuals If allergic to Asteraceae plants, avoid or patch test carefully
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