Calendula soothes! Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities have been used for centuries to ease skin infections, ulcerations, bowel problems, hemorrhoids, diaper rash and varicose veins. The herb is also said to reduce fever and treat indigestion, as well as help gallbladder and liver problems. Calendula is widely used in cosmetics for its toning and soothing effects.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Vitamin Depot Online.com is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History:
Calendula, also called Marigold, is an annual or biennial aromatic that is native to the Mediterranean countries, where it was used in early Arabic cultures and in ancient Greece and Rome as a medicinal herb, as well as a colorant for fabrics and an ingredient in food and cosmetics. The ornamental plants bear orange or yellow flowers with dense petals and are widely grown in gardens in North America and Europe for their beauty (and the fact that they also keep insects away), and the flowers are also extensively cultivated for use in herbal medicine throughout Latin America and Eastern Europe. It is said that plants harvested between June and September are most potent. The leaves and petals of the Calendula/Pot Marigold are edible, with the petals added to dishes as a garnish and in lieu of saffron. The leaves can be sweet but are more commonly bitter and may be used as, or as part of, a salad. One of the plant's alternate/common names, Marigold, is said to refer to the Virgin Mary, since Marigolds were traditionally used in Catholic celebrations concerning the mother of Jesus; and the plant received its botanical name and genus, Calendula, from the Romans, who noted the fact that the plants bloomed on the first days or "calends" of every month. The Calendula was used medicinally in ancient Rome to treat scorpion bites and heal wounds, among many other applications. It is also used in homeopathic medicine (in a gel form) as a way to promote the healing of minor burns, scrapes and skin irritations. Major constituents of the leaves and stems of the plant include lutein, zeaxanthan and beta-carotene, and others include essential oil, acids, carotenoids, phytosterols, calcium, vitamins C and E, saponins, flavonoids (polysaccharides and terpenoids, which account for much of its anti-inflammatory activity), resin and mucilage.

Beneficial Uses:
Calendula has a long history as a superior antibacterial when used internally and externally and has been used to heal many skin irritations, wounds, bee stings and injuries, including eczema, herpes, gingivitis, varicose veins and athlete's foot. It is thought to be similar to Witch Hazel, due to its natural iodine content, and may be used as a local application to heal all types of skin problems. Calendula reduces inflammation and is soothing to the skin and some consider this herb to be the best tissue healer for wounds. Old herbal doctors believed that constant applications of Calendula would help or even prevent gangrene or tetanus.

As a diaphoretic and febrifuge, Calendula is often used to induce perspiration and break a fever.

Calendula is a powerful anti-inflammatory and painkilling agent that is thought to reduce inflammation of the bowel. It reduces the general tension that can promote bowel problems, relaxing the nervous constriction of the digestive muscles, which will help bowel function. Calendula's antibacterial properties are thought to prevent the overgrowth of yeast in the bowel and also have beneficial effects on colitis, diverticulitis and inflammatory pelvic disease.

Calendula is often used to soothe the digestive tract. German studies have demonstrated that Calendula prevents the hormonal reactions that produce swelling and inflammation in the stomach lining, specifically by acting on the inflammatory prostaglandin (PGE) and also has a strong bactericidal effect that may counteract infection with Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with both gastritis and peptic ulcers. A hot tea made from Calendula is also said to help soothe ulcers, and gargling with cool tea relieves inflamed tonsils or canker sores.

Calendula may be helpful in the treatment of HIV and has demonstrated anti-HIV activity in vitro.

An organic extract of Marigold/Calendula has been shown to suppress cell fusion, which may inhibit early events in the HIV replication cycle. It is thought that the component that demonstrates activity against HIV is related to these triterpenoids.

As a cholalogue, Calendula increases the flow of bile into the intestines and is thought to help the gallbladder and the liver, making it useful in the treatment of hepatitis. This action further helps to promote good digestion.

When taken internally, Calendula soothes and heals the tender mucous membranes and tissues within the body, improving the colon, stomach, liver and gums after operations. When used externally, it provides the same soothing effects on mucous membranes that will support the skin and connective tissues. One clinical trial has shown that topical application of Calendula can prevent acute dermatitis during postoperative radiation therapy in breast cancer patients.

As an antispasmodic and effective painkiller, Calendula is an old-time remedy for menstrual cramps and for quelling the pain of an angry ulcer.

It is thought that Calendula will support good heart health, as some recent studies indicate that the herb may reduce blood pressure.

Europeans use Calendula in numerous medicinal compounds and cosmetics. It is said to enhance the production of collagen in the skin and fill in facial wrinkles, tone tender skin, treat sunburn and insect bites and protect babies' sensitive skin (particularly when used for diaper rash).

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) to three (3) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Pregnant women should not take Calendula internally, as it may stimulate the uterus. Nursing mothers should not use Calendula. When taken internally, Marigold/Calendula may increase the sedative effects of medications taken for anxiety and insomnia, and caution should be exercised if using the medications and the herb at the same time, particularly when driving or operating machinery. When using topically, some people may show an allergic reaction, and it is wise to test a patch of skin before widespread use. Calendula is a member of the daisy/aster family, and those with allergies to these plants or ragweed should avoid Calendula. Overuse/large amounts (more than the recommended dosage) may cause nausea, vomiting and headache.

Capsule Size:
We use only 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, , size "00" capsules for all of our encapsulated products. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs of powdered herb material.

• Calendula - Botanical Extract 4:1 -- Approximately 600 mgs each