Health Benefits Of Calendula - Nutrition Benefits Of Eating Marigold

One of the most common herbs in the world, calendula is native to North America and Europe. The herb has been named so since it blooms on every new moon. Commonly known as marigold, calendula is a hardy annual herb that has showy orange or yellow, daisy-like flowers. These flowers were first used by Indians and Arabians in herbal medicines and today, the bright colored flowers are grown throughout the world. They are also used in various cookery dishes and serves as a great culinary garnish. Read through the following lines to know more about the nutrition and health benefits of eating calendula.

Health & Nutrition Benefits Of Eating Marigold

Calendula extracts are known to show anti-cancer effects, especially in diseases like leukemia, melanoma, fibrosarcoma, breast, prostate, cervix, lung, pancreas and colorectal cancers.
The flower extract is used to treat bee stings and scorpion bites.
Since it is anti-inflammatory, calendula constricts blood vessels and helps stop bleeding.
Calendula tincture is used to treat ailments like bruises, sprains, pulled muscles and sores.
The oil is applied directly to the ear for reducing earache. Calendula tea is prepared and consumed for treating ear infections.
Calendula tea is used as eyewash for sore, reddened eyes.
The tea is also used to aid digestion, stimulate the immune system, detoxify the body and regulate the menstruation cycle.
Calendula helps in forming new blood vessels and heals wounds such as cuts and scratches.
Its oil stimulates blood circulation and induces sweating, thus reducing body heat and fever.
Calendula is applied topically to aid abrasions, acne and burns.
When taken orally, calendula helps in soothing stomach ulcers and inflammation.
It is also very effective in fighting boils, abscesses and recurrent vomiting.
Calendula is used in ointments that help in treating vaginal itching caused due to menopausal tissue changes, insect bites, eczema, diaper rash, acne, hemorrhoids, burns, scalds and sunburns.
The flower forms a part of many cosmetic creams that help in decreasing the appearance of wrinkles and hydrate skin as well.
It is also used to treat capillary engorgement, chronic ulcers, varicose veins and congestion.
Calendula ointments are used to treat chapped lips, bedsores and shingles.
It is widely used as a cleanser for liver, gallbladder and other organs.

Cooking Tips

Add one heaped tablespoon of dried calendula flowers in a hot cup of water. Allow them to infuse for about 15 minutes. Strain and drink 2 to 4 cups of the tea each day.
Calendula flowers can be used in salads, cereals, rice and soups, to add flavor and color.

Caution

Before applying calendula to any wound, ensure that the latter is clean.
In case of ragweed allergy, use calendula cautiously, as it can also cause allergic reactions.

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