By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 06, 2024
10 Health Benefits Of Calendula Officinalis (Pot Marigold)
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, has health benefits such as wound healing, skin regeneration, and antimicrobial properties due to its high levels of triterpenoids and sesquiterpenes.
These medicinal properties can improve lives by promoting tissue repair, reducing inflammation, and preventing infections.
For example, calendula-based creams can soothe and heal skin irritations, while its tea can be used as a natural antiseptic to prevent wound complications.
This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Calendula officinalis.
1. Speeds up wound healing
Calendula officinalis speeds up wound healing because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The plant's extracts have been shown to reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and prevent infection at the wound site. Additionally, calendula's antioxidant activity helps protect damaged tissues from oxidative stress, promoting a faster and more effective healing process.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various skin wounds, making it a popular choice for promoting optimal wound care.
2. Reduces inflammation
Calendula officinalis reduces inflammation because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The plant's flowers contain flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids that have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
These bioactive compounds work together to reduce oxidative stress, alleviate swelling, and soothe irritated tissues, making calendula a valuable natural remedy for various inflammatory conditions, including skin irritations, wounds, and respiratory issues.
3. Fights against bacteria
Calendula officinalis fights against bacteria because of its rich composition of flavonoids and triterpenoids.
These bioactive compounds have been shown to exhibit potent antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of a wide range of bacterial species. The sesquiterpene lactones present in Calendula officinalis have been found to disrupt bacterial cell membranes, ultimately leading to their death and preventing further infection.
This natural antibacterial activity makes Calendula officinalis an effective ingredient in traditional medicine for wound care and treatment of skin infections.
4. Reduces redness and swelling
Calendula officinalis reduces redness and swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant contains triterpenoid compounds, such as beta-amyrin, that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms associated with conditions like eczema, acne, and rosacea.
Additionally, calendula's antioxidant activity helps to neutralize free radicals, further contributing to its ability to soothe redness and swelling.
5. Soothes diaper rash
Calendula officinalis soothes diaper rash because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The plant's extracts have been shown to reduce redness, swelling, and irritation caused by diaper rash, making it a popular ingredient in natural remedies for this common issue.
Additionally, calendula's moisturizing qualities help to hydrate the skin, promoting healing and reducing the risk of infection.
6. Eases eczema symptoms
Calendula officinalis eases eczema symptoms because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The plant's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema.
Additionally, calendula has been shown to promote wound healing and soothe skin irritation, making it a popular ingredient in natural remedies for eczema relief.
7. Accelerates skin regeneration
Calendula officinalis accelerates skin regeneration because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.
The plant's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation that can hinder the healing process.
Additionally, calendula's flavonoids and triterpenoids stimulate collagen production, promoting the growth of new skin cells and accelerating tissue repair, resulting in faster wound closure and improved skin texture.
8. Relieves mouth ulcers
Calendula officinalis relieves mouth ulcers because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The plant's extract has been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with mouth sores, while its antifungal and antibacterial agents help combat underlying infections that may be contributing to the ulceration.
This natural remedy can provide relief from discomfort and promote healing, making it a popular choice for soothing mouth ulcers caused by various factors such as stress, poor oral hygiene, or certain medical treatments.
9. Heals acne and skin blemishes
Calendula officinalis heals acne and skin blemishes because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The plant's flavonoids and triterpenes help to reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, while its antifungal and antibacterial compounds combat P. acnes bacteria and other microorganisms that contribute to skin blemishes.
Additionally, calendula's soothing effects calm irritated skin and promote healthy tissue regeneration, making it an effective natural remedy for achieving clear and radiant skin.
10. Protects against uv radiation
Calendula officinalis protects against UV radiation because of its unique chemical composition.
The plant contains flavonoids and triterpenoids, which are potent antioxidants that neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. These compounds absorb and scatter UV light, preventing it from penetrating the skin and causing damage to DNA, collagen, and elastin.
This natural protection helps shield the skin from premature aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer, making calendula a valuable ingredient in skincare products and sunscreens.