Calendula tea and extract - potential benefits, effects and contraindications

Calendula, also known as Calendula officinalis, is a plant that has historically been used for many different diseases, mainly those affecting the skin, such as wound healing. The healing part of the plant is located in the beautiful, saturated colored orange and yellow flower.  [ref. 1] The flower petals of Calendula are rich in flavonoids – naturally occurring compounds found in vegetables and fruits – which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antithrombogenic, antidiabetic, anticancer and neuroprotective actions through various mechanisms of action in vitro and in animal models.

Calendula is used to treat various diseases affecting the skin, as well as infections and fungi. Research shows that Calendula can be effective in treating diaper rash, wounds, vaginal fungal infections and other skin diseases. Calendula is also used as a means of reducing pain and inflammation, therefore it cat act as a painkiller and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used as an aid in the treatment of cancer - specifically for side effects associated with radiotherapy. 

The active ingredients of the flower of Calendula are naturally occurring chemicals, such as triterpene saponins (oleanolic acid glycosides), triterpene alcohols (α-, β-amirins, faradiol) and flavonoids (ivercetin and isoramnetin). [ref. 2] It is considered that the photoprotective effect of local gel formulations containing Calendula is associated with improving collagen synthesis in subepidermal connective tissue. There is also evidence that chemicals in Calendula enhance the growth of new tissue in wound healing and reduce inflammation.  [ref. 3] 

Calendula extract and tea can have beneficial effects for seven aspects, as follows:

1. Rich in antioxidants – Antioxidants are useful compounds that neutralize the harmful effects of oxidative stress in the body and reduce the risk of a number of diseases. Calendula extract has several powerful antioxidants, including triterpenes, flavonoids, polyphenols and carotenoids. [ref. 4]   In addition, calendula extract can boast anti-inflammatory compounds, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα). While inflammation is a normal bodily response, chronic inflammation is associated with a number of conditions, including obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. [ref. 5] 
2. Can promote the healing of wounds and skin ulcers - Calendula extract, found in oils, ointments and tinctures, can be used topically to treat wounds and ulcers. You can also apply tea to your skin by a fabric compress or a spray bottle. However, there is no data on whether drinking tea from Calendula has the same effects. In vitro studies involving animals have shown that Calendula extract can regulate the expression of certain proteins that promote wound healing.  [Ref. 6] 
   
3. The antioxidant content of Calendula can provide antitumor effects - In vitro studies have shown that flavonoids and triterpene antioxidants of Calendula can fight leukemia, melanoma, cancer cells of the colon and pancreas.  [Ref. 7]   [Ref. 8]  However, there is no human studies to confirm the same effects. 
4. May have antifungal and antimicrobial properties - Calendula extract is known for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties, confirmed in studies such as "Antimicrobial Activity of Calendula officinalis petal extracts against fungi", as well as in "Gram-negative and Gram-positive clinical pathogens"  [ref. 9]  and "Antibacterial and antiparasitic activity of oleanolic acid and its glycosides isolated from marigold (Calendula of ficinalis)".  [Ref. 10] 
   
5. Can be used to improve oral health, including oral diseases such as gingivitis. 
6. Calendula can improve skin health - Calendula extract is widely used in cosmetics, including in creams and ointments. Studies in both vitro and humans have shown that calendula extract can improve skin hydration and stimulate its firmness and elasticity, which can slow down signs of aging, therefore it has anti-ageing effect.  [ref. 11] 
   

Many people claim that the Calendula has other applications, but few of them are supported by science so far. Here are these potential areas of action of Calendula:

• It can regulate the menstrual cycle
• It can work as a face tonic
• It may improve heart health
• It may relieve muscle fatigue

It is possible to have an allergic reaction when using products with a Calendula. Therefore, you need to test your skin in advance, applying a small amount of any product with Calendula before using it. People with allergies to other plants of the Asteraceae family, such as German Chamomile and Mountain arnica, may be more susceptible to an allergy to Calendula. In addition, it may be best to avoid products with Calendula during pregnancy to reduce the risk of miscarriage, given the purported effects of the herb on menstruation.

Put a handful of fresh Calendula colors in a jar or kettle. Pour in boiling water and leave to soak for 3-4 minutes. Strain, add honey as desired and enjoy!

If you buy herbal tea from the store, these are just petals of dried flowers. You can either dry the petals of the plant yourself, or buy the herb Calendula in bulk. Add 1-2 tablespoons of dried petals to a glass and pour with 1 cup of boiling water. Leave to soak for 3-4 minutes, add honey if desired, and enjoy.

If you want your Calendula to have powerful healing effect and a stronger taste, try the infusion. The infusion is created by letting the herbs soak in water for a longer period of time, usually overnight, in order to extract all minerals, aromatic oils, enzymes, vitamins, etc.

Use 1-2 tablespoons of dried petals of Calendula (or 3-4 fresh colors) per glass of water. Add Calendula to a jar or kettle and pour in boiling water. Allow to infuse overnight before use.