Caléndula, Calendula officinalis, Calendule, English Garden Marigold, Fleur de Calendule, Fleur de Tous les Mois, Garden Marigold, Gold-Bloom, Holligold, Marigold, Marybud, Pot Marigold, Souci des Champs, Souci des Jardins, Souci des Vignes, Souci Officinal, Zergul.
Calendula is a plant. The flower is used to make medicine.
Calendula flower is used to prevent muscle spasms, start menstrual periods, and reduce fever. It is also used for treating sore throat and mouth, menstrual cramps, cancer, and stomach and duodenal ulcers.
Calendula is applied to the skin to reduce pain and swelling (inflammation) and to treat poorly healing wounds and leg ulcers. It is also applied to the skin (used topically) for nosebleeds, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, inflammation of the rectum (proctitis), and inflammation of the lining of the eyelid (conjunctivitis).
Don't confuse calendula with ornamental marigolds of the Tagets genus, which are commonly grown in vegetable gardens.
How does it work?
It is thought that the chemicals in calendula help new tissue grow in wounds and decrease swelling in the mouth and throat.
QUESTION
Next to red peppers, you can get the most vitamin C from ________________. See AnswerInsufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...
- Anal tears (anal fissures). Early research suggests that that applying calendula to the affected area may reduce pain in people with anal tears who do not respond to treatment with sitz baths and the medication nifedipine.
- Diaper rash. Early research suggests that applying a 1.5% calendula ointment to the skin for 10 days improves diaper rash compared to aloe gel.
- Ear infections (otitis media). Early research shows that applying a specific product (Otikon Otic Solution by Healthy-On Ltd) that contains mullein, garlic, calendula, and St. John's wort to the ear for 3 days reduces ear pain in children and teenagers with ear infections.
- Skin inflammation due to radiation therapy (radiation dermatitis). Early research suggests that applying calendula ointment on the skin might reduce radiation dermatitis in people receiving radiation therapy for breast cancer.
- Thinning of the wall of the vagina (vaginal atrophy). Early research suggests that applying a specific gel (Estromineral Gel, Rottapharm-Madaus) that contains calendula, Lactobacillus sporogenes, isoflavones, and lactic acid to the vagina for 4 weeks reduces symptoms of vaginal atrophy such as vaginal itching, burning, dryness, and pain during intercourse.
- Leg ulcers. Early research shows that applying a 7.5% calendula ointment to the skin speeds up the healing of leg ulcers caused by poor blood circulation.
- Muscle spasms.
- Fever.
- Cancer.
- Nosebleeds.
- Varicose veins.
- Hemorrhoids.
- Promoting menstruation.
- Treating mouth and throat soreness.
- Wounds.
- Other conditions.
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).
SLIDESHOW
Vitamin D Deficiency: How Much Vitamin D Is Enough? See SlideshowThere is not enough reliable information about the safety of using calendula if you are breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Allergy to ragweed and related plants: Calendula may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others. If you have allergies, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before taking calendula.
Surgery: Calendula might cause too much drowsiness if combined with medications used during and after surgery. Stop taking calendula at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Sedative medications (CNS depressants)Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.
Calendula might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Medications that cause sleepiness are called sedatives. Taking calendula along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness.
Some sedative medications include clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), phenobarbital (Donnatal), zolpidem (Ambien), and others.
The appropriate dose of calendula depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for calendula. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Akhtar, N., Zaman, S. U., Khan, B. A., Amir, M. N., and Ebrahimzadeh, M. A. Calendula extract: effects on mechanical parameters of human skin. Acta Pol.Pharm. 2011;68(5):693-701. View abstract.
Amirghofran, Z., Azadbakht, M., and Karimi, M. H. Evaluation of the immunomodulatory effects of five herbal plants. J Ethnopharmacol. 2000;72(1-2):167-172. View abstract.
Andersen, F. A., Bergfeld, W. F., Belsito, D. V., Hill, R. A., Klaassen, C. D., Liebler, D. C., Marks, J. G., Jr., Shank, R. C., Slaga, T. J., and Snyder, P. W. Final report of the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel amended safety assessment of Calendula officinalis-derived cosmetic ingredients. Int.J.Toxicol. 2010;29(6 Suppl):221S-2243. View abstract.
Anonymous. Final report on the safety assessment of Calendula officinalis extract and Calendula officinalis. Int J Toxicol 2001;20 Suppl 2:13-20. View abstract.
Barajas-Farias, L. M., Perez-Carreon, J. I., Arce-Popoca, E., Fattel-Fazenda, S., Aleman-Lazarini, L., Hernandez-Garcia, S., Salcido-Neyoy, M., Cruz-Jimenez, F. G., Camacho, J., and Villa-Trevino, S. A dual and opposite effect of Calendula officinalis flower extract: chemoprotector and promoter in a rat hepatocarcinogenesis model. Planta Med 2006;72(3):217-221. View abstract.
Bashir, S., Janbaz, K. H., Jabeen, Q., and Gilani, A. H. Studies on spasmogenic and spasmolytic activities of Calendula officinalis flowers. Phytother Res 2006;20(10):906-910. View abstract.
Benomar, S., Boutayeb, S., Lalya, I., Errihani, H., Hassam, B., and El Gueddari, B. K. [Treatment and prevention of acute radiation dermatitis]. Cancer Radiother. 2010;14(3):213-216. View abstract.
Bezakova, L., Masterova, I., Paulikova, I., and Psenak, M. Inhibitory activity of isorhamnetin glycosides from Calendula officinalis L. on the activity of lipoxygenase. Pharmazie 1996;51(2):126-127. View abstract.
Bojadjiev C. On the sedative and hypotensive effect of preparations from the plant Calendula officinalis. Nauch Trud Visshi Med Inst Sof 1964;43:15-20.
Chargari, C., Fromantin, I., and Kirova, Y. M. [Importance of local skin treatments during radiotherapy for prevention and treatment of radio-induced epithelitis]. Cancer Radiother. 2009;13(4):259-266. View abstract.
Chew, B. P., Wong, M. W., and Wong, T. S. Effects of lutein from marigold extract on immunity and growth of mammary tumors in mice. Anticancer Res 1996;16(6B):3689-3694. View abstract.
Cravotto, G., Boffa, L., Genzini, L., and Garella, D. Phytotherapeutics: an evaluation of the potential of 1000 plants. J Clin Pharm Ther 2010;35(1):11-48. View abstract.
De Tommasi, N., Conti, C., Stein, M. L., and Pizza, C. Structure and in vitro antiviral activity of triterpenoid saponins from Calendula arvensis. Planta Med 1991;57(3):250-253. View abstract.
de, Andrade M., Clapis, M. J., do Nascimento, T. G., Gozzo, Tde O., and de Almeida, A. M. Prevention of skin reactions due to teletherapy in women with breast cancer: a comprehensive review. Rev.Lat.Am.Enfermagem. 2012;20(3):604-611. View abstract.
Della Loggia R. and et al. Topical anti-inflammatory activity of Calendula officinalis extracts. Planta Med 1990;56:658.
Della, Loggia R., Tubaro, A., Sosa, S., Becker, H., Saar, S., and Isaac, O. The role of triterpenoids in the topical anti-inflammatory activity of Calendula officinalis flowers. Planta Med 1994;60(6):516-520. View abstract.
Dietz V. Calendula preparations to treat cutaneous infections. Alt Med Alert 1998;1(12):140-142.
Dumenil, G., Chemli, R., Balansard, C., Guiraud, H., and Lallemand, M. [Evaluation of antibacterial properties of marigold flowers (Calendula officinalis L.) and other homeopathic tinctures of C. officinalis L. and C. arvensis L. (author's transl)]. Ann.Pharm Fr. 1980;38(6):493-499. View abstract.
Duran, V., Matic, M., Jovanovc, M., Mimica, N., Gajinov, Z., Poljacki, M., and Boza, P. Results of the clinical examination of an ointment with marigold (Calendula officinalis) extract in the treatment of venous leg ulcers. Int.J.Tissue React. 2005;27(3):101-106. View abstract.
Elias, R., De Meo, M., Vidal-Ollivier, E., Laget, M., Balansard, G., and Dumenil, G. Antimutagenic activity of some saponins isolated from Calendula officinalis L., C. arvensis L. and Hedera helix L. Mutagenesis 1990;5(4):327-331. View abstract.
Gladine, C., Rock, E., Morand, C., Bauchart, D., and Durand, D. Bioavailability and antioxidant capacity of plant extracts rich in polyphenols, given as a single acute dose, in sheep made highly susceptible to lipoperoxidation. Br J Nutr 2007;98(4):691-701. View abstract.
Gracza L. Oxygen-containing terpene derivatives from Calendula officinalis. Planta Med 1987;53:227.
Guinot, P., Gargadennec, A., Valette, G., Fruchier, A., and Andary, C. Primary flavonoids in marigold dye: extraction, structure and involvement in the dyeing process. Phytochem.Anal. 2008;19(1):46-51. View abstract.
Herold, A., Cremer, L., Calugaru, A., Tamas, V., Ionescu, F., Manea, S., and Szegli, G. Antioxidant properties of some hydroalcoholic plant extracts with antiinflammatory activity. Roum.Arch Microbiol.Immunol 2003;62(3-4):217-227. View abstract.
Herold, A., Cremer, L., Calugaru, A., Tamas, V., Ionescu, F., Manea, S., and Szegli, G. Hydroalcoholic plant extracts with anti-inflammatory activity. Roum.Arch Microbiol.Immunol 2003;62(1-2):117-129. View abstract.
Hussein, K. T. Suppressive effects of Calendula micrantha essential oil and gibberelic acid (PGR) on repro ductive potential of the Mediterranean fruit fly Ceratitis capitata Wied. (Diptera: Tephritidae). J Egypt.Soc Parasitol. 2005;35(2):365-377. View abstract.
Jeschke, E., Ostermann, T., Luke, C., Tabali, M., Kroz, M., Bockelbrink, A., Witt, C. M., Willich, S. N., and Matthes, H. Remedies containing Asteraceae extracts: a prospective observational study of prescribing patterns and adverse drug reactions in German primary care. Drug Saf 2009;32(8):691-706. View abstract.
Jimenez-Medina, E., Garcia-Lora, A., Paco, L., Algarra, I., Collado, A., and Garrido, F. A new extract of the plant Calendula officinalis produces a dual in vitro effect: cytotoxic anti-tumor activity and lymphocyte activation. BMC.Cancer 2006;6:119. View abstract.
Karadas, F., Grammenidis, E., Surai, P. F., Acamovic, T., and Sparks, N. H. Effects of carotenoids from lucerne, marigold and tomato on egg yolk pigmentation and carotenoid composition. Br Poult.Sci 2006;47(5):561-566. View abstract.
Kassab, S., Cummings, M., Berkovitz, S., van, Haselen R., and Fisher, P. Homeopathic medicines for adverse effects of cancer treatments. Cochrane.Database.Syst.Rev. 2009;(2):CD004845. View abstract.
Khalif, I. L., Quigley, E. M., Makarchuk, P. A., Golovenko, O. V., Podmarenkova, L. F., and Dzhanayev, Y. A. Interactions between symptoms and motor and visceral sensory responses of irritable bowel syndrome patients to spasmolytics (antispasmodics). J.Gastrointestin.Liver Dis. 2009;18(1):17-22. View abstract.
Kishimoto, S., Maoka, T., Sumitomo, K., and Ohmiya, A. Analysis of carotenoid composition in petals of calendula (Calendula officinalis L.). Biosci.Biotechnol.Biochem 2005;69(11):2122-2128. View abstract.
Klouchek-Popova, E., Popov, A., Pavlova, N., and Krusteva, S. Influence of the physiological regeneration and epithelialization using fractions isolated from Calendula officinalis. Acta Physiol Pharmacol Bulg. 1982;8(4):63-67. View abstract.
Kowalski, R. Studies of selected plant raw materials as alternative sources of triterpenes of oleanolic and ursolic acid types. J Agric Food Chem 2-7-2007;55(3):656-662. View abstract.
Kumar, S., Juresic, E., Barton, M., and Shafiq, J. Management of skin toxicity during radiation therapy: a review of the evidence. J.Med.Imaging Radiat.Oncol. 2010;54(3):264-279. View abstract.
Kundakovic, T., Milenkovic, M., Zlatkovic, S., Nikolic, V., Nikolic, G., and Binic, I. Treatment of venous ulcers with the herbal-based ointment Herbadermal(R): a prospective non-randomized pilot study. Forsch.Komplementmed. 2012;19(1):26-30. View abstract.
Lievre M, Marichy J, Baux S, and et al. Controlled study of three ointments for the local management of 2nd and 3rd degree burns. Clin Trials Meta-analysis 1992;28:9-12.
Machado, M. A., Contar, C. M., Brustolim, J. A., Candido, L., Azevedo-Alanis, L. R., Gregio, A. M., Trevilatto, P. C., and Soares de Lima, A. A. Management of two cases of desquamative gingivitis with clobetasol and Calendula officinalis gel. Biomed.Pap.Med.Fac.Univ Palacky.Olomouc.Czech.Repub. 2010;154(4):335-338. View abstract.
Marchenko, M. M., Kopyl'chuk, H. P., and Hrygor'ieva, O. V. [Activity of cytoplasmic proteinases from rat liver in Heren's carcinoma during tumor growth and treatment with medicinal herbs]. Ukr.Biokhim.Zh 2000;72(3):91-94. View abstract.
Marukami, T., Kishi, A., and Yoshikawa, M. Medicinal flowers. IV. Marigold. (2): Structures of new ionone and sesquiterpene glycosides from Egyptian Calendula officinalis. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2001;49(8):974-978. View abstract.
McQuestion, M. Evidence-based skin care management in radiation therapy. Semin.Oncol Nurs 2006;22(3):163-173. View abstract.
McQuestion, M. Evidence-based skin care management in radiation therapy: clinical update. Semin.Oncol.Nurs. 2011;27(2):e1-17. View abstract.
Modesto, A., Lima, K. C., and de Uzeda, M. Effects of three different infant dentifrices on biofilms and oral microorganisms. J Clin Pediatr Dent 2000;24(3):237-243. View abstract.
Naseer, S. and Lorenzo-Rivero, S. Role of Calendula extract in treatment of anal fissures. Am.Surg. 2012;78(8):E377-E378. View abstract.
Neto, J. J., Fracasso, J. F., Neves, M. D. C. L. C., and et al. Treatment of varicose ulcer and skin lesions with calendula. Revista de Ciencias Farm Sao Paulo 1996;17:181-186.
Neukirch, H., D'Ambrosio, M., Dalla, Via J., and Guerriero, A. Simultaneous quantitative determination of eight triterpenoid monoesters from flowers of 10 varieties of Calendula officinalis L. and characterisation of a new triterpenoid monoester. Phytochem.Anal. 2004;15(1):30-35. View abstract.
Neukirch, H., D'Ambrosio, M., Sosa, S., Altinier, G., Della, Loggia R., and Guerriero, A. Improved anti-inflammatory activity of three new terpenoids derived, by systematic chemical modifications, from the abundant triterpenes of the flowery plant Calendula officinalis. Chem Biodivers. 2005;2(5):657-671. View abstract.
Pommier, P., Gomez, F., Sunyach, M. P., D'Hombres, A., Carrie, C., and Montbarbon, X. Phase III randomized trial of Calendula officinalis compared with trolamine for the prevention of acute dermatitis during irradiation for breast cancer. J Clin.Oncol. 4-15-2004;22(8):1447-1453. View abstract.
Posadzki, P., Watson, L. K., and Ernst, E. Adverse effects of herbal medicines: an overview of systematic reviews. Clin Med 2013;13(1):7-12. View abstract.
Qiu, X., Reed, D. W., Hong, H., MacKenzie, S. L., and Covello, P. S. Identification and Analysis of a Gene from Calendula officinalis Encoding a Fatty Acid Conjugase. Plant Physiol 2001;125(2):847-855. View abstract.
Quetin-Leclercq, J., Elias, R., Balansard, G., Bassleer, R., and Angenot, L. Cytotoxic activity of some triterpenoid saponins. Planta Med 1992;58(3):279-281. View abstract.
Ramos, A., Edreira, A., Vizoso, A., Betancourt, J., Lopez, M., and Decalo, M. Genotoxicity of an extract of Calendula officinalis L. J Ethnopharmacol. 1998;61(1):49-55. View abstract.
Rao, SG, Udupa, AL, Udupa SL, and et al. Calendula and Hypericum: Two homeopathic drugs promoting wound healing in rats. Fitoterapia 1991;62(6):508-510.
Reddy, K. K., Grossman, L., and Rogers, G. S. Common complementary and alternative therapies with potential use in dermatologic surgery: risks and benefits. J Am Acad Dermatol 2013;68(4):e127-e135. View abstract.
Rusu, M. A., Tamas, M., Puica, C., Roman, I., and Sabadas, M. The hepatoprotective action of ten herbal extracts in CCl4 intoxicated liver. Phytother Res 2005;19(9):744-749. View abstract.
Samochowiec L. Pharmacological study of saponosides from Aralia mandshurica Rupr. et Maxim and Calendula officinalis L. Herba Pol. 1983;29:151-155.
Sarrell EM, Mandelberg A, and Cohen HA. Efficacy of naturopathic extracts in the management of ear pain associated with acute otitis media. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med 2001;155(7):796-799.
Sarrell, E. M., Cohen, H. A., and Kahan, E. Naturopathic treatment for ear pain in children. Pediatrics 2003;111(5 Pt 1):e574-e579. View abstract.
Shaparenko BA, Slivko AB, Bazarova OV, and et al. On use of medicinal plants for treatment of patients with chronic suppurative otitis. Zh Ushn Gorl Bolezn 1979;39:48-51.
Silva, E. J., Goncalves, E. S., Aguiar, F., Evencio, L. B., Lyra, M. M., Coelho, M. C., Fraga, Mdo C., and Wanderley, A. G. Toxicological studies on hydroalcohol extract of Calendula officinalis L. Phytother Res 2007;21(4):332-336. View abstract.
Sterer, N. and Rubinstein, Y. Effect of various natural medicinals on salivary protein putrefaction and malodor production. Quintessence.Int 2006;37(8):653-658. View abstract.
Tedeschi, C. and Benvenuti, C. Comparison of vaginal gel isoflavones versus no topical treatment in vaginal dystrophy: results of a preliminary prospective study. Gynecol.Endocrinol. 2012;28(8):652-654. View abstract.
Tjeerdsma, F., Jonkman, M. F., and Spoo, J. R. Temporary arrest of basal cell carcinoma formation in a patient with basal cell naevus syndrome (BCNS) since treatment with a gel containing various plant extracts. J.Eur.Acad.Dermatol.Venereol. 2011;25(2):244-245. View abstract.
Ukiya, M., Akihisa, T., Yasukawa, K., Tokuda, H., Suzuki, T., and Kimura, Y. Anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor-promoting, and cytotoxic activities of constituents of marigold (Calendula officinalis) flowers. J Nat Prod 2006;69(12):1692-1696. View abstract.
Vidal-Ollivier E, Elias R, Faure F, and et al. Flavonol glycosides from Calendula officinalis flowers. Planta Med 1989;55:73-74.
Yoshikawa, M., Murakami, T., Kishi, A., Kageura, T., and Matsuda, H. Medicinal flowers. III. Marigold. (1): hypoglycemic, gastric emptying inhibitory, and gastroprotective principles and new oleanane-type triterpene oligoglycosides, calendasaponins A, B, C, and D, from Egyptian Calendula officinalis. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2001;49(7):863-870. View abstract.
Zitterl-Eglseer, K., Sosa, S., Jurenitsch, J., Schubert-Zsilavecz, M., Della, Loggia R., Tubaro, A., Bertoldi, M., and Franz, C. Anti-oedematous activities of the main triterpendiol esters of marigold (Calendula officinalis L.). J Ethnopharmacol. 1997;57(2):139-144. View abstract.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler's Honest Herbal, 4th ed., Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Gol'dman II. [Anaphylactic shock after gargling with an infusion of Calendula]. Klin Med (Mosk) 1974;52:142-3. View abstract.
Kalvatchev Z, Walder R, Garzaro D. Anti-HIV activity of extracts from Calendula officinalis flowers. Biomed Pharmacother 1997;51:176-80. View abstract.
Panahi Y, Sharif MR, Sharif A, et al. A randomized comparative trial on the therapeutic efficacy of topical aloe vera and Calendula officinalis on diaper dermatitis in children. ScientificWorldJournal. 2012;2012:810234. View abstract.
Paulsen E. Contact sensitization from Compositae-containing herbal remedies and cosmetics. Contact Dermatitis 2002;47:189-98. View abstract.
Reider N, Komericki P, Hausen BM, et al. The seamy side of natural medicines: contact sensitization to arnica (Arnica montana L.) and marigold (Calendula officinalis L.). Contact Dermatitis 2001;45:269-72.. View abstract.
Shipochliev T. Uterotonic action of extracts from a group of medicinal plants. Vet Med Nauki 1981;18:94-8. View abstract.