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The Eclectic Physician
Medicinal Herb Monographs
Calendula
Botanical Name
Calendula officinalis
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Calendula officinalis
(Calendula)
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The information on this page compiled by
Beth Burch N.D.
Index
(click on the keywords)
Introduction
Calendula has a long history of use as a topical application for wounds,
burns and skin irritation- assisting with decreasing inflammation and promoting
healing. It has also been used historically for inflammation of the gastrointestinal
tract. It can be helpful in vaginitis and diaper rash.
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Description
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Calendula, also known as pot marigold (don’t confuse it with the other
more common marigold), is a common garden plant. A member of the Compositae
family, it is native to Southern Europe and the Orient, but is cultivated
throughout the world. It is an annual plant which will return each year
from seed and grows up to 20 inches high. It has a branched stem with alternate
leaves. It has a showy orange or yellow daisy like flower. These pretty
flowers are the medicinal part.
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Constituents
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Triterpene saponins
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Flavonoids
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Hydroxycoumarins
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Carotinoids including lutein and zeaxanthin
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Sesquiterpene glycosides
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Volatile oils
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Polysaccharides including arabinogalactans
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Polyynes
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Action/Effects
Conditions used
for
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Inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes (1)
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Wounds (2, 3)
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Burns (2)
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Dosage
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Topical- apply cream, ointment or liquid extract 2-4 times per day.
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Internal-
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Liquid extract- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon up to three times a day.
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Side Effects
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Contraindications
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Interactions
with medications
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Use in
pregnancy & lactation
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References
1. Della Loggia R et al, The role of triterpenoids in the topical
anti-inflammatory activity of Calendula officinalis flowers, Planta Med
1994;60(6):516-20
2. Kaplan B, Homoeopathy: 3. Everyday uses for all the family, Prof
Care Mother Child 1994;4(7):212-3
3. Klouchek-Popova E et al, Influence of the physiological regeneration
and epithelialization using fractions isolated from Calendula officinalis,
Acta Physiol Pharmacol Bulg 1982;8(4):63-7
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* The information presented in this web site is intended to inform and educate.
It is not intended replace a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
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