ABSTRACT

The ligulate florets, commonly (but erroneously) referred to as flower petals, of Calendula officinalis L. have been used in medicine since the very earliest times. The plant, a member of the family Asteraceae, is a common cultivated ornamental, also referred to as pot marigold or garden marigold. It should not be confused with members of the genus Tagetes, also widely grown as garden ornamentals and commonly called marigolds. During its long history, calendula has been administered internally for a variety of ailments, including spasms, fevers, suppressed menstruation, and cancer. Its chief use, however, was as a local application to help heal and prevent infection of lacerated wounds.1 Modern herbalists recommend it in the form of a tincture, infusion, or ointment to heal a variety of skin conditions ranging from chapped hands to open wounds.2