Herbs in My Garden: Calendula
One of my favorite herbs in the garden is the bright yellow and orange petals of calendula. It was chosen as Herb of the Year 2008 by the International Herb Association.
Calendula officinalis, not to be confused with the ornamental marigolds found outside nearly every supermarket, is the medicinal variety. Throughout the ages in Europe, these “pot marigolds”, as they were called, were dried and used in broths as a restorative for the eyes. During World War I calendula was used in dressings for the injured. Typically used to heal wounds, Calendula is very soothing to the skin. It helps heal cuts, burns, insect bites, bruises and aids dry skin. I use the dried petals in all of my salves and lip balm.
Because the plant is an anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antimicrobial it has a variety of uses. As a tincture or an extract it is used as a gargle for inflammations of the mouth, throat, and nose. It also eases digestive disorders, is a good detoxifying herb for the liver and gallbladder, and is high in antioxidants. Calendula tea is excellent for the eyes.
Calendula’s golden petals are easy to grow and beautiful to look at. When the last danger of frost has passed Calendula can be planted. It likes well-drained, moderately fertile soil and lots of water, especially as the summer heat begins. Bees are drawn to the deep yellow and orange petals. The other day I was cutting off the blossom heads to dry the petals; I had to be careful as there was a bee sucking nectar out of nearly every blossom.
The florets from the center of the flower have a bitter quality. The petals are very flavorful in soups, broths, or salads in addition to their medicinal qualities.
To dry the petals, I cut them off from the center and put them in a paper bag to dry. The more blossoms I cut from the plant, the more they bloom. It’s wonderful! I hope I have inspired you to grow some in your garden.
Ruth Madocks is a school teacher and the creator of Ruth’s Handmade Herbal Remedies, a line of products made from organic, all-natural plant extracts, carrier oils, and essential oils.