| Calendula has been grown as garden plants for many years throughout North America and Europe. The flowers of Calendula officinalis have been used as medicine for centuries, and the herbal remedies based upon calendula has been known for generations. Traditionally, Calendula has been used to treat conjunctivitis, eczema, gastritis, minor burns including sunburns, warts, and minor injuries such as sprains and wounds. It has also been used to treat cramps, coughs, and snake bites. Research continues into the healing properties of Calendula. Calendula flowers have been considered beneficial in reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, and used as an antiseptic. It has been used to treat a variety of skin diseases, and has been effective in treatment of skin ulcerations. Taken internally as a tea, it has been used for treatment of stomach ulcers, and inflammation. Calendula is now being investigated for it's anti-cancer properties. In conjunction with other herbs there has been evidence of success in treating certain cancers, according to the Fedkovich Chernivtsi State University in the Ukraine.. According to the Universitatea de Medicina si Farmacie, Calendula has been effective in treating juvenile acne and dry phthiriasis. Improvement has been seen in as little as 3-4 days of treatment . Agriculture Western Australia has been investigating Calendula for control of the Red-legged earth mite ( Halotydeus destructor). The mite is a major pest of pastures and crops in Australia. In some cases, the crops had better growth and production when Calendulas were planted as a decoy crop. The Calendulas were heavily attacked whilst the damage to crops was less. Calendula tea
can be made from the flowers growing in the garden. Dry the flower petals and use 1 -2 teaspoons of the petals per 200 ml of water. Pour the boiling water over the petals and allow to steep for 10 - 15 minutes. Strain and drink. It is claimed that 3 cups of tea a day is beneficial. Unless you are allergic to Calendula, there has been no reported side effects or interactions, but always talk to your doctor before considering using Calendula internally. Do not use Calendula whilst Pregnant
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