Flower Power!

The name "calendula" refers to the plant's tendency of blooming according to the calendar, either once a month or at the new moon. The calendula flower is native to the Mediterranean and tropical countries. The delicate petals of the calendula plant, Calendula officinalis have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. In both historic times up to the present day, calendula flowers have been used to speed the healing of burns, bruises, and cuts, as well as eczema. The calendula flowers contain a variety of compounds which are believed to support wound healing.
--Calendula is thought to be an anti-inflammatory, constricting blood vessels to stop bleeding. It may also be anti-bacterial. Calendula was used during the American Civil War to draw out infection. Herbalists believe calendula is very versatile, speeding the healing of wounds, making the skin more supple by increasing blood supply to it, and soothing pain when used topically on abrasions, and acne.

--Internally, the soothing effects of Calendula were used for stomach ulcers and inflammation. A sterile tea of this herb was also applied in cases of conjunctivitis. Calendula has been found to be antispasmodic, aperient, cholagogue, diaphoretic, vulnerary. The primary chemical constituents of this herb include saponins, carotenoids, flavonoids, mucilage, bitter principle, phytosterols, and polysaccharides resin. Cautions - Calendula has No Known Toxicity, and is considered safe in normal applications. There are no known drug interactions with Calendula.

--As with any herbal remedy, check with your naturopathic physician before using.