Calendula

About the plant

Calendula officinalis, the pot marigold, is a short-lived aromatic herbaceous perennial that grows to 80 cm tall. Its inflorescences are yellow or orange. It is probably native to southern Europe, but its long history of cultivation makes its precise origin unknown.

The flower absolute

The INCI name of the flower absolute is Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract. The scent of the absolute differs from that of calendula-infused oil, which is more subtle and harmonious.

Chemistry

The petals and pollen contain triterpenoid esters, as well as the carotenoids flavoxanthin and auroxanthin, which are antioxidants and the source of the yellow-orange coloration. The flowers also contain flavonol glycosides, triterpene oligoglycosides, oleanane-type triterpene glycosides, saponins and a sesquiterpene glucoside. The flowers are a rich source of lutein, containing 29.8 mg/100g.

Uses

The florets are edible. They are often included in salads for their color or added to dishes as a garnish in lieu of saffron. A dye extracted from the flower gives shades of honey, gold, orange, light brown and vibrant yellow. Calendula officinalis oil is still used medicinally as an anti-inflammatory and a remedy for healing wounds. Evidence for the effectiveness of calendula ointments on minor cuts, burns and skin irritation is weak. Laboratory studies on plant extracts suggest that calendula extracts may have antiviral, antigenotoxic and anti-inflammatory effects in vitro.

History

Flowers were used in ancient Greek, Roman, Middle Eastern and Indian cultures as a medicinal herb and as a dye for fabrics, foods and cosmetics. Ancient Romans and Greeks used the golden Calendula in many rituals and ceremonies, sometimes wearing crowns or garlands made from the flowers. Calendula flowers are sacred flowers in India and have been used to decorate the statues of Hindu deities since early times. In the middle ages, Calendula flowers were used for liver obstructions, snake bites and to strengthen the heart. Marigold did not appear in pharmacopoietic literature before the late 13th or early 14th century. The names marigold and Mary's gold were given by the English people to honour Mary, mother of Jesus.

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