Calendula (Marigold) - Oregon-Grown (Calendula officinalis)

Oregon-grown Calendula officinalis, also called Pot Marigold or Calendula. Despite the common name, Calendula is NOT the same plant as the common ornamental garden marigolds (Tagetes species, which have a different aromatic character and are not used medicinally). Calendula is one of the most-used Western herbal skin-supporting herbs and has been used in European medicine since ancient Roman times.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Calendula officinalis

Source

Oregon-grown (Pacific Northwest)

Family

Asteraceae

Common names

Calendula, Pot Marigold, Garden Marigold

Active compounds

Triterpene saponins, flavonoids, carotenoids

Distinct from

Tagetes marigolds (common ornamental garden marigolds) - different genus with different uses

Traditional uses

Skin support, traditional wound applications, lymphatic tonic, traditional women's wellness

Calendula vs Tagetes Marigolds

Two completely different plants share the "marigold" name in English. Calendula (Calendula officinalis): The medicinal herb - bright yellow-orange flowers; long traditional use as a skin-supporting herb. Tagetes (various species): The common ornamental garden marigolds - not used medicinally; the leaves have a strong distinctive aroma that's often considered unpleasant. Make sure you have Calendula for any medicinal applications.

How to Use Calendula

Infused oil (the most popular use): cover dried flowers with olive oil; set in sunlight or warm spot for 4-6 weeks; strain. Use directly on skin or as the base for salves. Tea: steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers per 8 oz cup in hot water for 10 minutes; strain. Tincture: alcohol extracts the saponin compounds. Salve: combine calendula-infused oil with beeswax for traditional skin-supporting salve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the same as common garden marigolds?
No; Calendula (Calendula officinalis) and Tagetes (common garden marigolds) are completely different plants.

What is Calendula used for?
Most commonly for skin support, traditional wound applications, and traditional women's wellness.

How do I make calendula salve?
Infuse dried flowers in olive oil for 4-6 weeks; strain; combine with beeswax (1 oz wax per 4-6 oz oil) and warm to combine.

What's the Locally Grown line?
Herbs cultivated or wildcrafted by partner growers in the Pacific Northwest.

Why is the oil orange?
The carotenoid content (the same orange-pigment compounds in carrots) gives calendula-infused oil its characteristic orange color.

Is it safe for children?
Yes; one of the gentlest herbs for children's skin applications.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.