Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a remarkably versatile and beneficial plant that should be a staple in every home garden or indoor plant collection.
With its vibrant orange and yellow blooms, Calendula officinalis not only brightens up any space but also comes packed with a variety of medicinal properties.
Among its many benefits, calendula is particularly renowned for its ability to stimulate blood circulation and speed up recovery from colds and fevers.
Here’s a deeper look at why you should keep calendula in your home and how to utilize it effectively.
Health Benefits of Calendula
Calendula has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its powerful anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties.
It is commonly used in herbal remedies and skin care products for wounds, burns, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Here are some specific ways calendula can be beneficial for general health:
1. Stimulating Blood Circulation: Calendula is believed to stimulate blood flow and enhance circulation, which is crucial for cell regeneration and overall cardiovascular health. Improved circulation helps in faster recovery of muscles and other tissues in the body.
2. Enhancing Immune Response: The flower is packed with flavonoids and linoleic acid, which help boost the immune system. This makes calendula an effective aid in combating pathogens that cause colds, flus, and fevers.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Calendula’s potent anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent remedy for sore throats and inflammation caused by respiratory infections. Its soothing effect helps reduce discomfort and accelerates healing.
4. Antioxidant Content: Rich in antioxidants, calendula protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and aiding in the body’s recovery from illness.
How to Use Calendula at Home
Growing Calendula: Calendula is relatively easy to grow both outdoors and indoors. It prefers a sunny spot and well-draining soil. You can sow the seeds directly in your garden after the last frost, or start them indoors in pots. Calendula makes a lovely addition to window boxes or patio containers due to its beautiful blooms.
Making Calendula Tea: One of the simplest ways to utilize calendula for colds and fevers is by preparing a tea. Steep dried calendula flowers in boiling water for about 10 minutes. This tea can help alleviate sore throat symptoms, reduce fever, and boost overall immunity.
Calendula Tinctures and Extracts: For a more concentrated form, calendula can also be used to make tinctures or extracts, which can be taken orally or added to lotions for external use.
Calendula Infused Oils: Infusing calendula in a carrier oil (like olive or coconut oil) creates a soothing oil that can be applied directly to the skin to enhance blood circulation and provide relief from skin irritations and rashes.
Precautions
While calendula is generally safe for most people, it is important to start with small doses to gauge individual reactions.
People who are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family should avoid using calendula. As with any herbal remedy, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before using calendula.
Conclusion
Keeping calendula in your home offers a natural and effective way to enhance your health and beautify your living space.
Its ability to stimulate blood circulation and aid in recovery from colds and fevers makes it a valuable plant for both medicinal and ornamental purposes.
Whether brewed into a soothing tea or grown as a cheerful garden addition, calendula’s myriad of uses and benefits make it a must-have for any home.