The calendula is a millenary plant that was used by the Egyptians, Romans and Greeks for medicinal purposes. Among the properties attributed to this plant is to reduce inflammations and other skin conditions. It is known for the vibrant yellow and orange colors in which it can be found in gardens and parks in a wild way, besides its cultivation is very simple since it does not require more care.
This plant is the perfect ally for the skin as it is healing, antiseptic, it regenerates damaged skin and increases the production of collagen. Likewise, it is effective for burns, skin irritations, eczema, acne, ulcers and even for psoriasis. In addition, due to its high content of beta carotene, phytosterols and salicylic acid it has emollient, softening and soothing properties, resulting in an effective remedy to relieve diaper rash on babies. A cold infusion of calendula applied to the affected areas will provide relief to the injured skin.
It is also an excellent fungicide and is recommended for skin conditions such as mycosis and “athlete’s foot”. To cure fungi you should only use a cotton swab dipped in calendula tea on the affected area. For the treatment of minor burns, such as those produced by the sun’s effect, it is widely used for its calming and anti-inflammatory action.
As a facial cleanser, it is perfect as a make-up remover, a calendula cream with the petals of six calendula flowers can be prepared, plus six spoonfuls of almond oil and one spoonful of cocoa butter. This preparation is simple, just place the ingredients in a saucepan in a bain-marie sauce, stirring so that it is integrated for a few minutes. Once cold, strain it and place it in a clean, dry jar. It does not need refrigeration and can be used for six months without problems.
Another benefit of the calendula for the skin is its moisturizing property, which together with the roses becomes an excellent moisturizing lotion. To prepare this lotion that will revive your skin, place petals of rose and calendula, in equal parts, in a container and cover them with hot water, cover and let stand. Once cold, strain the preparation and pour it into a clean, dry bottle, which should be kept in the refrigerator. To apply it, just soak a cotton ball with the lotion and apply it to your face.
Additionally, the calendula is an excellent astringent that can be used on all skin types, even in oily skin and also in dry skin due to its moisturizing properties. In addition, it is disinfectant and can be used in case of wounds or scratches, deflating the skin reducing redness. Also in case of insect bites is very useful, since it relieves the symptoms of bites, deflates, eliminates itching and redness.
According to Dr. Lérida Acosta de la Luz, Director of Natural and Traditional Medicine of Cuba, the calendula has antiseptic and healing properties, stimulates the regeneration of damaged skin, promotes the production of collagen and recovers the skin without leaving scars, for that reason it is the perfect ally for the skin.
Do not miss the wonderful properties of calendula, a plant that is given by nature to have a beautiful skin always.
ALFA