Calendula belongs to marigold family which is basically a natural herb used from ancient days. Even though you might not hear about calendula essential oil often, but you may be familiar with marigold.
This common name marigold is originated from Virgin Mary with whom it has been associated in 14th century, when it was included as an ingredient in an English recipe for fighting plague.
Calendula essential oil is made from orangey yellowish flower tops of the calendula plants, which can be found around Western Europe, southeastern Asia and Mediterranean.
Calendula essential oil is very effective and powerful which has been used in various products especially as a great base for lotions, creams, natural cosmetics, personal care products and herbal ointments. It is also commonly used as base oil in aroma therapy.
It has numerous range of health benefits too. Read on the article to know complete benefits of calendula essential oil.
Benefits of Calendula Essential Oil
- It is antiseptic with Antimicrobial Properties
Calendula essential oil has powerful antiseptic, antibacterial and antiviral properties which help in healing our skin from various infections. The acids found inside the oil will fight against pathogens, combat Candida symptoms and some of the most persistent bacteria which are antibiotic resistant.
This essential oil should not be used in deep tissue burns and cuts. If you find any allergic reactions on your skin after using the oil, then immediately consult your doctor without any delay.
- It Maintains Oral Health
Calendula essential oil has been used in various herbal and health products. This oil is also included in toothpastes, face washes, soaps and shampoos. The antibacterial properties In calendula essential oil protects us from formation of cavities and prevents the bacteria which leads to the formation of cavities, plaque, gum diseases and other oral infections.Due to its inflammatory properties, it also soothes inflamed gums.
How to Use it?
Add few drops of calendula essential oil in your toothpaste and tooth brush.
Alternatively, you can add 2 drops of essential oil to few drops of water to prepare a gargle mixture. Make sure you do not ingest the mixture.
- It Helps in Relieving Menstrual Pains
Calendula essential oil helps to regulate and induced menstrual flow then promotes regular menstruation in women.
Irregular or obstructed menstrual flow may lead to many health issues, especially it is harmful to the health of uterus with increased risk of cancer and cysts.
This essential oil also helps you to relieve from some pains that come along with menstruation, such as abdominal cramps. It relaxes muscles and stimulates an easy blood flow in menstruation.
How to Use It?
Take small quantity of calendula essential oil in your hand which is mixed with carrier oil like coconut oil and apply it on below part of abdominal area and massage or rub it for some time.
- It promotes Healing
Due to its antiseptic properties, it has the ability to heal wounds and infections as well as kills the bacteria lies on the skin. Its anti inflammatory properties helps to soothe the inflamed skin.
According to a study conducted in 2009 by journal of basic and clinical physiology and pharmacology, it is found that calendula essential oil which is extracted from the tops of the flowers has the ability to increase the blood flow and supply of oxygen to wounds.
It also promotes tissues and cells regeneration at the infected area; this is why it is used to battle against hemorrhoids even.
How to Use It?
Mix equal amount of calendula essential oil with carrier oil like (coconut oil, jojoba oil) apply it on the affected area and do not apply it directly on wounds.
- Prevents the Signs of Ageing
The numerous properties of calendula essential oil also help to smooth out wrinkles and reduce the sign of ageing. The soothing properties in oil will make you look younger than before.Regular usage of calendula essential oil will make the appearance of the skin brighter.
- Radiation Therapy Dermatitis
Radiation treatments included in cancer, may lead to formation of sores and dermatitis in the radiation site. Calendula cream will help you soothe pain and heal these skin conditions.Many doctors recommend for its topical use for dermatitis.
- Calms Muscle Spasms
According to a research done in 2006 in medical college of Pakistan it is found that calendula flower extracted has spasmolytic and spasmogenic effects which are the cause to alleviate abdominal cramps and relieve constipation.
Due to its antispasmodic qualities, it helps to relax the muscles and helps to soothe convulsions and cramps as well as contractions.
- It Maintains Vision Health
The antioxidant properties in calendula essential oil has direct impacts on your vision which has been concluded by some studies and research. Calendula is a wonderful source of beta carotene which is essential for maintaining health and proper functioning of your eyes.
You can also prevent macular degeneration and the development of contracts by using this amazing oil.
Safety Precautions
Calendula essential oil is generally safe for use. But I suggest you to follow the measures when you are using calendula essential oil to avoid side effects instantly.
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding women should not take or use calendula essential oil, because it may lead to miscarriage.
- While applying calendula essential oil, make sure it is diluted with carrier oil in 1:2 ratio and do skin patch test to ensure no sensitive allergic reactions as a result.
- The people, who are undertaking medications of blood pressure and diabetes, should consult your physician for health professional advice before you use the oil as an alternative form of treatment.
- If you are allergic to any herbal plants such as chamomile and other plants, then it is advised to avoid using calendula essential oil too.
- Calendula essential oil can blend with lavender, lemon and frankincense essential oils.
This plant extracts gives sleep and drowsiness and taking it with sedative drugs might result in excessive sleepiness. Do care of yourself when it is mixed with medications.