Calendula officinalis is a small shrub with light green leaves and flowers that can be yellow or orange. There are about 20 species of plants in the genus Calendula. But only Calendula officinalis, commonly known as calendula, is used as medicine and as food.
The word "calendula" comes from the Latin word kalendae or Middle English, meaning “first day of the month.” Experts say this may refer to the plant blooming at the beginning of most months.
In traditional medicine, Calendula petals have been made into ointments, extracts and infusions and used for a variety of ailments, including:
- Fever
- jaundice
- Stomach ulcers
- Conjunctivitis
- Life problems
- Burns and wounds
- To stop bleeding
- Can promote skin health
- Healing
- Bacterial vaginitis
- Indigo
- Diaper rash
- Sunscreen
