Calendula officinalis, or common marigold, was used for medicinal purposes since ancient times and even today modern medicine indicates this plant as a precious ally in case of photoaging, wounds, skin irritations but also sunburns and burns. So let's see the benefits that marigold can bring to our skin, based, as always, on the results of scientific research. Finally, we will also see some ideas on how marigold can be applied externally.
Common marigold, an ally of the skin, that's what science says
Calendula officinalis blooms into flowers of a splendid bright orange color. These flowers are widely used in herbal medicine and cosmetics due to their properties conferred by the substances they contain, such as antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds, carotenoids and vitamin C, but also soothing mucilages and essential oils (Piotrowicz et al, Sci Rep, 2021). Thanks to these characteristics, marigold-based remedies are emollient, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial and regenerating and bring benefits in case of skin conditions, such as dermatitis, pimples, wounds that are hard to heal, skin irritations and rashes, burns and sunburns (Dawid Pac et al, Postepy Dermatol Alergol, 2013 - Mishra et al, J Young Pharm, 2012). Not only that, marigold also stimulates collagen synthesis, is protective against photoaging and is anti-aging, helping to rejuvenate the skin, keeping it hydrated, elastic and more toned (Piotrowicz et al, Sci Rep, 2021 - Fonseca et al, J PharmSci, 2011).
Common marigold, uses and applications
Whether it is for mature skin with wrinkles, for irritated skin, sunburned skin or with dermatitis, common marigold, as we have seen in the previous paragraph, is the powerful first aid in these cases. You can use ready-made products, such as creams or oils, based on marigold and apply them to the affected area. If you love DIY, however, you can make marigold infused oil at home. Pour two full tablespoons of dried calendula officinalis flowers into a sterilized jar and cover them with a vegetable oil, such as sunflower oil, close the jar and leave it in the sun for a month, shaking the jar once a day. After this time, filter the oil and store it in a dark glass jar or covered with aluminum foil and placed in a cool, dry place. Apply a small amount of product on the face or body. Alternatively, you can get the marigold mother tincture, a valid aid in case of burns, sunburns and eczema. Pour 50 drops of tincture into a glass of water, soak gauze and make compresses.
