Botanical Name:
Calendula officinalis
Common Names:
- Calendula
- Marigold
- Pot Marigold
Herbal Energetics:
- Temperature: Warming
- Moisture: drying
Flavor:
- Bitter, slightly sweet
Herbal Actions:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiseptic
- Antimicrobial
- Vulnerary (promotes wound healing)
- Carminative (relieves gas)
- Emmenagogue (stimulates menstrual flow)
- Relaxant
Organ Affinities:
- Skin
- Digestive system
- Reproductive system
- Immune system
Uses:
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Skin Health: Calendula is renowned for its healing properties in treating skin conditions. It promotes the healing of wounds, burns, cuts, and abrasions. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help reduce irritation and prevent infection.
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Digestive Health: Calendula can aid in digestion and soothe the gastrointestinal tract. It is used for conditions like gastritis, ulcers, and indigestion, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
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Menstrual Health: Calendula has emmenagogue properties, which can help stimulate menstrual flow and regulate menstrual cycles. It is used to alleviate menstrual cramps and support overall reproductive health.
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Immune Support: Calendula's antimicrobial properties make it useful for supporting the immune system and preventing infections. It can be used to boost the body's defenses, particularly during cold and flu season.
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Anti-inflammatory: Its anti-inflammatory effects make calendula beneficial for conditions characterized by inflammation, such as arthritis or eczema. It can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Preparation and Dosage:
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Infusion (Tea):
- Dosage: 1–2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10–15 minutes. Drink 1–2 cups daily for digestive support, menstrual health, or immune support.
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Tincture:
- Dosage: 2–4 ml (about 40–80 drops) of a 1:5 tincture in alcohol, taken 2–3 times daily. Use for skin health, immune support, or menstrual regulation.
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Topical Application:
- Dosage: Apply calendula salve or ointment to affected areas of the skin as needed. For wound healing, apply to clean wounds and cover with a sterile bandage.
Contraindications:
- Allergies: Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed) may experience allergic reactions to calendula. Avoid use if you have known allergies to these plants.
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Sensitive Skin: While calendula is generally gentle on the skin, perform a patch test before extensive topical application to avoid potential irritation or allergic reactions.
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Medication Interactions: Calendula may interact with anticoagulant medications due to its potential effects on blood clotting. Consult with a healthcare provider if you are on such medications.
Materia magica
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Planetary Correspondence: Sun (associated with vitality, health, and clarity) and Venus (for love, beauty, and harmony)
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Deities: Calendula is connected to deities of healing and vitality:
- Apollo: The Greek god of healing and the Sun, reflecting calendula’s role in promoting health and vitality.
- Hathor: The Egyptian goddess associated with love and beauty, symbolizing calendula’s use in promoting beauty and harmony.
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Magical Uses:
- Healing: Calendula can be used in magical practices to support physical and emotional healing. It can be added to healing baths, teas, or salves to promote recovery and well-being.
- Beauty and Love: Given its associations with Venus, calendula is used in beauty and love magic. It can be used in spells or rituals aimed at enhancing physical beauty or attracting love.
- Protection: Calendula’s protective properties can be used in magical practices to shield against negative energies and promote overall safety. Incorporate it into protective charms or sachets.
- Abundance: Use calendula in spells and rituals to attract abundance and prosperity. Its bright, sunny energy is associated with growth and positivity.
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Rituals:
- Healing Bath: Add calendula flowers to a bath for physical and emotional healing. Light a yellow or gold candle to enhance the healing effects and focus on inviting health and vitality.
- Beauty Ritual: Create a facial steam or face mask with calendula to enhance beauty and skin health. Use it in rituals focused on self-care and self-love.
- Protective Charm: Make a protective charm or sachet with dried calendula flowers to carry with you or place in your home for health and protection.
- Abundance Spell: Add calendula to an abundance spell or prosperity jar to attract wealth and success. Pair it with other abundance herbs like basil and cinnamon.