Calendula officinalis

Calendula derives from the Latin calendae, meaning “little calendar” or “little clock,” referencing its tendency to bloom around the first day of each month. The Italian name fiore d’ogni mese (“flower of each month”) carries the same idea. The English name “marigold” evolved from the Anglo-Saxon mersc-meargealla (marsh marigold) and later became associated with festivals honoring the Virgin Mary. Early English texts refer to the flowers as “golds” or “ruddes.” Other names—such as solis sponsa (“sun’s spouse”) and solsequia (“sun follower”)—reflect the flowers’ opening and closing with daylight. Its nickname “poor man’s saffron” refers to the traditional use of petals to color rice and other foods.

Calendula may be used short-term or long-term to support immune and lymphatic function, especially in cases of colds, sore throats, swollen lymph nodes, post-mastectomy lymphedema, and mononucleosis. Internally and topically, it accelerates healing of viral infections such as herpes zoster, shingles, Molluscum contagiosum, chickenpox, measles, and HPV; it also shortens recovery from bacterial infections including staphylococcal and streptococcal infections, impetigo, and bacterial vaginosis. It is effective for fungal infections such as Candida-related vaginal or intestinal infections and oral thrush, and can be applied topically for athlete’s foot and ringworm. Taken on an empty stomach, calendula supports healing of gastric or duodenal ulcers, chronic gastritis, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory digestive conditions by protecting epithelial integrity and assisting tissue repair. It soothes acute and chronic inflammation of mucous membranes—including use as an eyewash—and gargling with the tea eases gum, mouth, and throat irritation, ulcers, and gingivitis. It supports conjunctivitis, styes, blepharitis, eye wounds, and general eye irritation; combined with antimicrobial herbs it may help manage eye infections. Topically, calendula promotes wound granulation, fibroblast activity, and collagen metabolism, aiding recovery from sunburns, skin ulcers, pressure sores, bruises, sprains, insect stings, and later stages of poison oak reactions. It helps reduce swelling and purulent discharge, and supports the resolution of thrush, abscesses, impetigo, boils, and staph infections. It is useful for diaper rash, dermatitis, radiation-induced dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, acne, and sore nipples. Internally, calendula works with other herbs to strengthen blood vessels and capillaries; long-term use may improve varicose veins, spider veins, and hemorrhoids.