Calendula/ marigold

It is widely used as a topical antiseptic available in creams, ointments and lotions.

Therapeutic uses: Traditionally used to treat gastric and duodenal ulcers, amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, epitaxis, crural ulcers, varicose veins, haemorrhoids, eczema, proctitis, lymphadenoma,inflamed cutaneous lesions and conjunctivitis. Today it is mainly used as a topical application as an antiseptic and on skin lesions and irritations.

Dosage: dried florets 1-3g by infusion daily.

Liquid extract- 0.5-1ml 3x daily

Tincture- 0.3-1.2ml 3x daily

Contra-indications: Affects the menstural cycle and has uterotonic effects. Orally administered calendula should be avoided during pregnancy.

Side effects: Occasional allergic reactions.

Drug interactions: At high doses oral calendula has shown to be hypotensive and sedative, thus interacting with any similar medication.

This is a post in a series regarding popular herbs with therapeutic applications.

Source

Information credit to Pharmacy Plus Programme.

Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa. Module 4. (2000). (011-706 6939)