calendula

Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigold or garden marigold (not to be confused with Tagetes species), is a flowering plant native to Asia and southern Europe. It has been widely used in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Unani. The dried flowers are used in teas and extracts for oral use or made into ointments for topical application. Calendula contains triterpenoids and flavonoids that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial (including antibacterial and antiviral), antispasmodic properties. These compounds may promote new tissue growth in wounds by stimulating collagen production and reducing inflammation[1][2][5][6]. Clinical studies suggest possible benefits for wound healing (including burns and venous leg ulcers), radiation-induced dermatitis prevention/treatment in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy; it is also traditionally used for rashes/dermatitis/eczema/diaper rash; oral inflammations; peptic ulcers; hemorrhoids; conjunctivitis; menstrual cramps/dysmenorrhea; fever; vaginal candidiasis[2][4][5]. However robust clinical evidence supporting these uses is lacking[1][3]. Mechanistically calendula acts via modulation of inflammatory pathways including downregulation of TNF-alpha expression and activation of Akt/Bcl-2 signaling pathways. Topical formulations may improve collagen synthesis in skin connective tissue[7]. Calendula is not FDA-approved as a pharmaceutical drug but is available over-the-counter as an herbal supplement or topical product.

Brand names

Calendula Weleda cream

Other names

bride of the suncalendula officinalisgarden marigoldgold bloomgolden flower of Maryholligoldmarigoldmarybudpot marigoldgoudsbloemmaravillanagotkinevenringelblumesouci