Calendula:

Calendula officinalis

                This lovely, sticky annual, the 2008 herb of the year has such a giving spirit.  Each blossom is so vastly different from its neighbor.  One plant of the same species can look like a compeletely different plant, yet they hold the same constituents.  The bright orange and yellow color shining from the plant comes from beta-carotene, also found in carrots, like carrots, calendula is rich in vitamin A.   As flowers are picked off the mid-height plants, they continue to bloom all summer long, creating an endless harvest.

                Calendula is used both externally and internally.  Externally the plant is used for its antiseptic and healing properties, being applied to cuts, scrapes, bruises, and burns. Calendula extracts are anti- inflammatory, antiviral, support healthy gastrointestinal function, and stimulate the immune system. Triterpenoids in calendula have recently been linked to its anti-inflammatory activity. In addition, calendula increases granulation at the site of a wound, promoting metabolism of proteins and collagen-in other words, helping grow new healthy cells. Topical calendula preparations are widely accepted in Europe for treating inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, slow to-heal wounds, mild burns, and sunburn.

In use:

·           a store of calendula tea can be kept in the refrigerator to be used directly on the skin to help clear up acne, hemorrhoids, or other areas where the skin is inflamed

·         The tea or the tincture in water can be swished and swallowed in order to help heal oral lesions, sore throat, or gastric ulcer

·         Calendula flowers can be used as an inexpensive substitute for saffron

·         The dried flowers can be used to dye wool

·         The plants emenogouge properties can help with menstrual cramps when prepared as a tea

·         And many more!!