Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is an annual herb in the Asteraceae family and originates from southern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean region. Its golden flowers have long been cultivated as a medicinal herb and is widespread in gardens around the world predominately in cooler more temperate climates.
The word Calendula originates from Latin word “calendae” which means the “first day of the month” in reference to its long flowering period and some say its potential to bloom at the beginning of every month or perpetual renewal. For the Romans, calendula was a symbol of joy and happiness in their gardens, and provided them with a continuous supply of flowers and tender leaves as well as for cooking and as a herbal medicine.
Calendula was used in ceremonies by both Romans and Greeks used the golden flowers for crowns or garlands made from its flowers. One of calendula’s nicknames is “Mary’s Gold,” referring to the flower's use in early Catholic events and it is also a sacred flower in India where Calendula decorates Hindu statues (and is used for garlands at weddings). Calendula was also favoured by Aztecs and Mayans.
Calendula’s medicinal properties have been known for centuries and it has been used both internally and topically, to heal wounds, burns, and rashes and aid the recovery of skin. During the U.S. Civil War, calendula flowers were used to stop bleeding and to promote healing of battle wounds. And British garden designer Gertrude Jekyll led a campaign during World War I to raise calendula to supply British hospitals in France (Keeler, 2016).
Calendula was used since the ancient Egyptions for skin treatment and is known to keep skin hydrated when prepared as a lotion or balm. Calendula has been used to counter a range of ills (including digestion and ear ache) through homeopathy and other traditions such as Ayurveda. Its bright flowers have also been thought to lift the spirits as well as boosting the immune system. (though it has also been described as a flower of grief, as droplets of water gather in the flower during the night and drip off like tears when it opens in the morning).
Calendula has also been known to be used as a saffron replacement by using dried petals instead of Saffron stigmas. In Europe, in the Middle Ages, Calendula was commonly used as a condiment added to soups and stews as well as being used to colour cheese and butter. Its petals have also been used as a fabric dye creating a variety of yellows, oranges and browns.
Calendula was thought by some to have magical powers and they sprinkled calendula flowers around their door to keep evil away and under their beds to ensure that good dreams would come true. And some believed that for a positive legal outcome, carrying a calendula flower in their pocket was helpful.
Here at Black Teal Bay, we have increased our beds of organic Calendula which do well here in our Otago climate and flower almost constantly throughout the year. We dry our flowers for infusion and use it to make our Calendula Moisturising Balm, body oils and Calendula soap.
