Calendula - Calendula officinalis
Calendula is an annual plant. It
has a branched stem with small hairs on it, which grow 1 to 2 feet high.
The alternate leaves are also hairy with widely spaced teeth. It flowers
large yellow or orange flowerheads during June to October. The leaves and
flowers of the calendula plant are antispasmodic, aperient, cholagogue,
diaphoretic and vulnerary.
You can use an infusion of the flowers for
gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers, stomach cramps, colitis and
diarrhea. This can also be taken internally for fever, boils, abscesses and
to prevent vomiting. Used externally, a salve can be made from the dried
flowers and leaves and the juice pressed from the fresh plant. This is good
for bruises, sprains, pulled muscles, sores and boils. Rub the fresh juice
on the skin to get rid of warts. A tincture of the plant can be used for
gastritis and menstrual difficulties.