Calendula Oil Health Benefits, Properties, and Uses

Calendula oil is extracted and distilled from the flower tops of the calendula plant. The calendula plant (Calendula officinalis), is the same species as the marigold, also known as the pot marigold.^1,2

Calendula plants are native to western Europe, the Mediterranean and southeastern Asia. Calendula plants are cultivated for numerous reasons, including for their beneficial oil extracts. The oil is a sticky, viscous liquid with a musky smell similar to marigold flowers. Like marigold flowers, calendula oil is also bright orange in color. ^1,2

Calendula oil is also an easy, natural remedy to make at home using dried marigold petals.

Calendula Oil Health Uses and Health Benefits

Calendula oil benefits have been known and applied for centuries. Calendula oil contains many important nutrients for improved health, including vitamin E, fatty acids, and antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids.^1,2,3

Calendula has traditionally been used to help alleviate PMS cramps and constipation. Today, it’s considered a staple to keep in household or workplace first aid kits because of its versatile uses in treating cuts and burns. 

This natural remedy is used for many other reasons thanks to the following calendula oil health benefits:

• Reducing inflammation
• Stopping muscle spasms
• Healing skin wounds and ulcers
• Acting as a natural antibacterial, antiviral and antiseptic to prevent infections
• Treating gingivitis and other oral conditions
• Lowering risk of cancer
• Treating side effects of cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation

Calendula oil uses include being a topical treatment for the following conditions:

• Skin Rash - Calendula oil can be used as a topical treatment to lower inflammation and irritation caused by skin rashes.
• Mastitis - Calendula oil uses include being a safe, natural remedy for healing mastitis and preventing infection.
• Scars - Calendula oil health benefits include containing vitamin E, which can help heal scars and reduce their appearance.
• Psoriasis - Calendula oil can help nourish psoriasis skin patches and reduce irritation.
• Yeast Infection - Calendula oils and creams can be used as a topical treatment to heal yeast infections.

Calendula Oil Side Effects and Precautions

Calendula side effects can occur in those who suffer allergic reactions to any plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Pregnant women should also avoid taking calendula oil internally or externally.^1,2

References

1. http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/calendula-oil.aspx
2. https://draxe.com/calendula/ 
3. http://www.livestrong.com/article/100674-benefits-calendula-oil/