Calendula
Parts Used – Flowers
Actions- Antiseptic, Anti-inflammatory, bitter tonic, digestive, antiulcer, antitumor, antioxidant, astringent, anti -viral, detoxifying , anti-spasmodic.
This common or “pot” marigold is found in cultivated fields. Leaves are oval, pale green. Flowers are round, many petaled, aromatic, radiating, and of brilliant gold & orange. An “herb of the sun” with much of the sun’s power in it’s flower, which are the strongest part medicinally although the while plant is used.
Collect flowers during June to September & dry with great care to ensure there is no discoloration.
Immunity
Calendula is antiseptic & astringent. Due to it’s antibacterial & antiviral actions it is very effective in flu & herpes viruses. It reduces lymphatic congestion & can be used for swollen lymph glands & tonsillitis.
Digestion
It reduces inflammation & is helpful in gastritis & peptic ulcers. It acts as an astringent for diarrhoea & bleeding. Its bitters stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes & liver & gall-bladder function, improving digestion & absorption & preventing gallstones. It’s antimicrobial action is helpful for fungal infections such as Candida.
Reproductive system
It helps regulate menstruation & relieve menstrual cramps. It is hormone balancing, relieves menopausal symptoms & reduces breast congestion with tenderness. It acts as an astringent for excessive menstrual bleeding. It has a reputation for treating tumours & cysts, such as fibroids ,ovarian cysts, breast cysts.
Externally
An oil, balm or cream of calendula can help to stop bleeding & prevent infection & speeds up the healing of cuts, sores, ulcers, varicose veins, bruises, sprains & strains. It can be used as a mouthwash for inflamed gums & a douche for vaginal infections & an eyewash for inflammatory eye conditions.
Recipes
Acne – Calendula, Lavender & Rose Geranium Gel
10 Rose geranium flowers with leaves & stems
8 Calendula flowers
20 Lavender flowerheads
200mls for water
1 sachet of vegetable gelatine
5 tsp of Vodka
10 drops of tea tree oil.
Roughly chop the flowers into a large glass bowl. Bring the water to the boil & pour over flowers leave to infuse for 10 mins. Put water & flowers into blender & whizz. Strain the mixture through a piece of muslin. In another bowl, dissolve the gelatine in 2tsp of cold water & gradually add the flower infusion stirring to avoid lumps. Add the Vodka & tea tree oil & stir until gel is formed. Pour into a bottle with a pump dispenser.
Apply to affected area 2 times a day or as frequently as needed. Keeps in the fridge for up to 6 weeks.
Baby’s bath herbs
Use the following mixture in the bathwater, these herbs are soothing & relaxing for Mom & Dad, too
2 Parts Calendula
2 Part Chamomile
2 Parts Comfrey leaf
1 Part Lavender
1 Part Roses
Mix all the herbs. Place a small handful of the mix in a cotton bag & toss into the baby’s bath water. Use the fragrant herbal bag as a washcloth.
Lymph Congestion Tea
The herbs in this formula are renowned for their positive effect on the lymphatic system. Regular consumption of this tea helps ensure proper lymphatic drainage.
2 Parts Calendula
2 Parts Cleavers
1 Part Mullein
1 Part Spearmint ( or any flavorful herb of your choice)
Perpare as an infusion & drink 2 /3 cups daily for several weeks
Make an infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1-2 teaspoons of florets & leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes & drink up to 3 times a day.
Magical Uses.
Planet is Sun, Element if Fire. Powers: protection, Prophetic dreams , legal matters, Psychic power.
Calendula, picked at noon when the sun is at it’s hottest & strongest will strengthen & comfort the heart. Garlands of Calendula strung on the doorposts to stop evil from entering the house & scattered under the bed they protect you while asleep & make your dreams come true, i.e, give you prophetic dreams. Added to bath water help win respect & admiration. Carried in the pocket, Calendula helps justice to smile favorably upon you while in court.
Cautions – Avoid during Pregnancy
Green Blessing – Laura x