Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (21 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Calendula officinalis is a versatile plant utilized extensively for its medicinal properties derived from the flower, root, leaf, and rhizome. It exhibits significant biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. These therapeutic benefits are driven by key chemical constituents such as faradiol 3-o-laurate, palmitate, (+)-catechin, and (-)-epicatechin. The plant is particularly effective in conditions like wound healing and the management of atherosclerosis. Various preparations, ranging from hydroalcoholic extracts and 1-butanol-soluble fractions to Calendula ointment and Gurgem-7, are used to harness its healing potential.
- Synonyms
- Calendula Officinalis Var. Parviflora · Calendula Prolifera · 10 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Flower · Root
Classification
Common Names
Calendula officinalis is a versatile botanical species known by many different names across various regions and languages. In many parts of the world, it is most simply referred to as Caléndula or Caléndula del Mediterráneo. Depending on the local dialect, you might also encounter it called Boixac de jardí or Fiorrancio coltivato. It is also frequently identified by the common name Calendola o fiorrancio. Regardless of which name is used, this vibrant plant remains a beloved staple in gardens everywhere.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Calendula officinalis is a botanically complex species that is often identified through various taxonomic synonyms. Throughout scientific literature, it has been referred to by names such as Calendula aurantiaca and Calendula eriocarpa. The plant's diversity is further reflected in its classification as Calendula hydruntina. Additionally, specific forms of the species are documented as Calendula officinalis f. pleniflora and Calendula officinalis var. parviflora. Understanding these various designations is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Calendula officinalis belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of multicellular organisms. Within this kingdom, the plant is classified under the class Equisetopsida. It further descends through the order Asterales, which connects it to many other flowering species. As a member of the family Asteraceae, it shares characteristics with iconic plants like daisies and sunflowers. Finally, it is uniquely identified by its specific genus, Calendula.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Calendula |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Calendula officinalis exhibits a diverse geographical range that spans several significant regions across the African continent. Its distribution extends through Macaronesia, including the specific archipelagos of the Azores, the Canary Islands, and Madeira. In the northeastern reaches of the continent, the species is notably found within Ethiopia and Northeast Tropical Africa. The plant also maintains a presence in Northern Africa, with documented occurrences in regions such as Libya. This broad ecological footprint highlights the plant's ability to adapt to various environments throughout the African landscape.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Calendula officinalis is a versatile herb characterized by its sturdy, self-supporting growth form. This plant typically reaches a modest height, generally staying within a range of 0.15 m to 0.75 m. Depending on its specific environmental conditions, the plant often settles at a more consistent height of approximately 0.38 m. Such manageable dimensions make it an ideal choice for various gardening landscapes. Ultimately, its upright structure and compact size allow it to thrive beautifully in many settings.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Calendula officinalis is a versatile medicinal plant recognized for its diverse range of biological activities, including potent antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Research highlights its antibacterial properties, which contribute significantly to its efficacy in wound healing and maintaining oral health. Beyond these roles, the plant also exhibits anticholinergic activities that may play a part in improving memory and learning in certain diabetic models. Furthermore, C. officinalis demonstrates notable antiglycation potential, offering a way to inhibit the Maillard reaction and reduce the formation of advanced glycation end products. Collectively, these multifaceted properties suggest that the plant holds great therapeutic promise for managing oxidative stress, infections, and age-related complications.
Compounds
Calendula officinalis is a medicinal plant rich in diverse bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic profile. Research indicates that the plant contains several important triterpenoid monoesters, including faradiol 3-o-laurate and various forms of palmitate. Furthermore, the species is characterized by the presence of specific fatty acids such as calendic acid. Phenolic analysis also reveals that chlorogenic acid is found within its ethanolic extracts. Finally, the plant contains specialized compounds like calenduladiol 3-O-myristate, which are essential to its chemical complexity.
Conditions
Calendula officinalis is a medicinal plant widely recognized for its ability to treat wounds by stimulating the migration and proliferation of fibroblasts. It also provides significant anti-inflammatory benefits, particularly through C16-hydroxylated triterpenoids that modulate interleukin 6 release. The plant exhibits strong antioxidant activity, which can be further enhanced through processes like bacterial fermentation to increase total phenolic levels. Additionally, certain botanical combinations containing Calendula officinalis have shown promise in the pathogenetic therapy of inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis. These diverse therapeutic properties highlight its multifaceted role in treating various skin and systemic conditions.
Preparations
Calendula officinalis is prepared as a hydroalcoholic extract to study its effects on polycystic ovary syndrome, diabetic memory impairment, and ulcerative colitis. It is also prepared as a 1-butanol-soluble fraction to isolate triterpene oligoglycosides that exhibit hypoglycemic and gastroprotective properties. For the topical treatment of diaper dermatitis, the plant is prepared as a Calendula ointment. Additionally, Calendula officinalis is prepared as Gurgem-7, a traditional Mongolian prescription evaluated for its toxicity and biological activities against cancer cells. Finally, the plant is prepared as hexane and ethanolic extracts to investigate their potential for stimulating fibroblast proliferation and migration in wound healing assays.
Parts used
Calendula officinalis is a highly valued medicinal herb known for its diverse pharmacological properties and complex biochemical structure. Research highlights that the flowers contain essential triterpenoids, such as faradiol monoester, which provide significant anti-inflammatory benefits. Beyond the blooms, the plant's roots serve as a vital source of bioactive compounds, including prenylated acetophenones and antioxidant flavonoids. Furthermore, specialized extracts can be isolated from the rhizomes to exert antiulcerous and sedative effects. The therapeutic versatility of the species is further demonstrated by the antimicrobial potential found within its leaves.