Health Benefits of Calendula
What Is Calendula?
Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigold, is an annual flower that blooms regularly through the growing season. Native to the Mediterranean, calendula got its name because it seems to bloom with the calendar.
Healing Properties
One of the best reasons to keep calendula handy is due to its healing abilities. If you apply this flower oil to your cuts, scrapes, bruises, and insect bites, you can quickly speed the healing process, partially due to its anti-inflammatory properties, in addition to the unique antioxidant compounds found in this miraculous plant. By protecting against infections, it keeps wounds and scrapes safe, allowing them to heal rapidly.
Oral Health
There are also certain antibacterial properties of calendula that have made it very popular in recent years. You will often find it on the ingredients list of various herbal health and hygiene products, including toothpastes, mouthwashes, soaps, and shampoos. In terms of oral health, toothpastes and mouthwashes that contain calendula are very effective in killing bacteria that cause everything from gingivitis to cavities.
Skin Care
Aside from stimulating healing, calendula oil can significantly boost the appearance of your skin. It can affect blood flow to the skin cells, provide antioxidant protection that reduces the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, and even the visibility of scars. If you want smooth, even-toned skin that glows with youthful vitality, consider adding some organic products that contain calendula or consume it in another form, such as tea.
Eye Care
Research has shown that calendula contains certain antioxidant compounds that directly impact your vision. Beta-carotene is essential for the health and functioning of your eyes, and it is a wonderful source of this compound. You can prevent macular degeneration and the development of cataracts in this way.
Reduced Inflammation
Regardless of where inflammation is occurring, this flowering plant can significantly reduce the discomfort. If you are suffering from a cough or congestion, calendula tea can be a wonderful remedy. If your joints are hurting from arthritis or gout, add some calendula oil to a skin balm and enjoy a rapid reduction in pain. Finally, if your stomach is upset, it can help normalize your gastrointestinal system and eliminate any inflammation that may be causing discomfort.
Anti-Cancer Potential
Calendula oil has certain anti-tumor properties that make it very valuable in new cancer research exploring natural solutions to this global epidemic. Calendula extracts have shown anti-tumor properties. Research by Eva Jimenez Medina, Angela Garcia Lora et al, was conducted to evaluate if calendula extract can prevent toxicity and enable effective and non-toxic way in treating and preventing cancer. The study published in the BMC Cancer Journal states that calendula extracts show positive results in its possible role in cancer management, especially in cancer prevention, treatment, and palliative care. However, more research studies are awaited to corroborate this point.
