This flower is the Skin's herb. That's the least you need to know!
The flower petals are the part that to use, has iodine, magnese and carotene which all promote the regeneration of skin cells. You can put it in salads, tea, or salves/balms.
I make a calendula salve which a lot of people are really enjoying, including myself!
its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, lymphatic, astringent, vulnerary, emmenagogue, antimicrobial, cholagogue, antifungal and detoxifying.
In simpler terms, she is used to treat varicose veins, rashes, sores, cuts, scrapes, burns and bruising of the skin, measles, chickenpox, diaper rash, cradle cap, skin irritation, bee/ wasp stings, insect bites, chapped lips, dry skin, acne, fevers, ulcers, cramps and bronchitis.
There have been some eczema sufferers who found some relief with the salve.
I really like the salve, use it on everything. Mostly just as a moisturizer - even on my face! every day on my pregnant belly... great for after sun and after gardening! Smells lovely too.
After learning about how the skin soaks up anything that you put on it immediately and how toxic all the mainstream lotions are, I am very glad to be using something that is actually GOOD for my skin.
Here's some more info and a downloadable toxin list for your wallet.
Upon looking into it, you will fast realize that non-toxic skin products can not be found in major pharmacies where EVERYone gets their moisturizers! crazy. .
you have to do your research and go to the health food store. Or find someone who makes their own...
or MAKE your own!! Its just another recipe!!
after planting calendula last year, I had a bunch of volunteer plants this year!
They are not perennial but very self seedy.
Isn't she pretty!
Here is my blog entry about making calendula infused oil
