Flavonoids, found in high amounts in calendula, are thought to account for much of its anti-inflammatory activity. Other potentially important constituents include the triterpene saponins andcarotenoids.
Investigations into anticancer and antiviral actions of calendula are continuing. At this time, insufficient evidence exists to recommend the use of calendula for cancer. Nevertheless, test tube studies have found antiviral activity for calendula. The constituents responsible for these actions are not clear, however, and the relevance of these actions for human health care has not been established.
How to Use It
A tea of calendula can be made by pouring 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water over 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 grams) of the flowers; the tea is then steeped, covered for ten to fifteen minutes, strained, and drunk. At least 3 cups of tea are recommended per day. Tincture is similarly used three times a day, at 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (1–2 ml) each time. The tincture can be taken in water or tea. In addition, prepared ointments can be used topically for skin problems, although wet dressings made by dipping a cloth into the cooled tea are also effective. Topical treatment for eye conditions is not recommended, as absolute sterility must be maintained.
Calendula has been used for medicinal purposes since the 12th century. It was used historically to treat upset stomachs, ulcers and menstrual cramps, although no clinical evidence has proven its effectiveness for these conditions. It was also used to relieve fevers and treat cancer. The flowers have also been used as a pesticide. This plant is not taken orally for any conditions, except in homeopathic preparations, in which it is extremely diluted.
Chronic Migraine Signs You Know It's Not Just a Migraine. Learn Causes of Chronic Migraine. www.MyChronicMigraine.com
Ear infections, or otitis media, can be painful for children; by the age of seven, 93 percent of children have experienced at least one ear infection, according to a 2003 article written by Sarrell, Cohen and Kahan in the "Journal of Family Practice." The University of Maryland states that ear drops that contain calendula may be used to help treat pain related to ear infections in children. Sarrell et al write that the main goal for treating otitis media if there is no systemic infection is to alleviate pain. Calendula may be an effective treatment for some children.
Calendula has a wide range of medicinal uses. It is a soothing tea for gastrointestinal problems, healing wash for skin wounds, easily infused into oil for a healing salve or balm. Great for baby diaper area.
Calendula also has the rare quality of keeping its color during soapmaking. Unlike most herbal additives, calendula will not turn brown or black in a bar of herbal soap. Add 1 tablespoon of petals to just enough oil to cover. After your soap reaches trace, stir in the oil and petal mixture throughout your soap batch. The bright orange petals will remain bright and offer even soothing properties to the finished soap. For soapmaking information, find someone knowledgeable in the craft before undertaking it yourself.
Radiation-Induced Dermatitis
Radiation therapy for cancer can cause dermatitis, which is inflammation of the skin that may be accompanied by a rash or itching. A 2009 meta-analysis published in the "Journal of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery" found that application of topical calendula prevented dermatitis caused by radiation. If you are receiving radiation, ask your oncologist or treatment team if calendula is safe for you to use.
Skin Injuries
Burns, cuts and bruises may be treated with calendula preparations. Tinctures, ointments and washes made with calendula have been used to encourage wound healing, ease bruising and also treat infections associated with wounds. Though the exact mechanism of action is not clear, it is thought that calendula helps blood circulation and encourages collagen production to heal the skin.
No comments:
Post a Comment