10 Reasons We're Crazy About Calendula

 Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is more than just a pretty flower—it's a powerhouse of  herbal magic (aka scientifically proven skin benefits!). Whether in an herbal salve or a delightful body butter, the skin benefits of calendula are plentiful and worth reaching for.

At Ora's Amazing Herbal, we are constantly inspired by the Amazing properties of calendula, so much so, we use it as our logo flower! If you haven’t added this golden-hued plant to your skincare routine yet, here are 10 reasons you’ll fall in love with calendula just like we have.

Looking to jump straight to shopping for skincare with calendula? We've got you covered.

1. Wound Healing Powerhouse

Calendula oils, salves, balms and creams are well known for calendula's remarkable ability to shorten healing time for minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds. This is, in part, due to its ability to increase blood flow to the affected area. Calendula also reduces inflammation of wounds and encourages new tissue to form more quickly. Studies show that applying calendula based products can reduce healing time and minimize scarring, making it a must have in your natural first aid kit (Givol, 2019).

2. Supports Ceramide Production

Ceramides are essential lipids that form a protective layer on the skin, keeping it hydrated and shielded from environmental damage. Calendula helps stimulate the production of these lipids, strengthening the skin's natural barrier and preventing water loss, leading to more hydrated and resilient skin.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Whether it's from sun exposure, eczema, or a minor skin reaction, skin inflammation and, by proxy, irritation, can be hard and uncomfy to deal with. Studies show that calendula soothes and reduces swelling quickly and effectively (Preethi, 2009). Calendula's powerful anti inflammatory properties make it a natural choice for calming inflamed, red, or irritated skin.

4. Eczema Relief

Our very first salve (Touchy Skin Salve!) was made for eczema relief for Ora's daughter. We still hold onto our commitment to natural, effective eczema relief today, which is a big part of the reason we love calendula so much! 
Calendula’s anti inflammatory, healing, and hydrating properties make it an ideal ingredient for those prone to eczema flare ups. Calendula also helps alleviate itchiness by providing a protective, moisturizing layer to the skin, making it a natural alternative to steroid creams.

Psst.. Want to learn more about eczema care? Click here for our blog 8 Easy Steps to Eczema Relief. Looking to shop eczema care? Click here. :)

5. Antimicrobial, Antiviral, & Antifungal Properties

You read that right. Calendula is shown to be antimicrobial and antiviral (buh-bye, germs!). Calendula also has antifungal properties. These properties mean calendula can help to prevent infections and speed up recovery time (Patil, 2022). As moms, this is one of the reasons we shmear a calendula cream or our All Purpose Salve on our kiddos boo-boos.

As for any medical conditions, check in with your trusted healthcare practitioner to be sure this is the best course of action for you.

6. Gentle & Effective Enough for a Baby's Tush

Make diaper rash a thing of the past. Calendula oil is Amazingly effective at aiding in the healing and prevention of diaper rash and skin irritation on babies (Pahani, 2012). Calendula was shown to significantly reduce rash intensity and frequency, which can be a huge help as a sleep deprived mama. Check out our Calendula ointments (aka Baby Salve & Newborn Salve) or our calendula infused Baby Oil. 

7. Rich in Antioxidants

Calendula is packed with flavonoids and carotenoids, potent antioxidants that protect your skin from free radical damage. Free radicals, often caused by sun exposure and pollution, can accelerate skin aging. By using calendula regularly, you can help protect your skin from premature aging to maintain a healthy, youthful glow (Shahane, 2023).

8. Boosts Collagen Production

As we age, our collagen levels in our skin naturally decrease. This depletion of collagen can contribute to less skin elasticity and increased (err.. noticeable) signs of aging. Though we are grateful to be aging, we don't want to always look like it. Calendula is shown in studies to actually increase collagen production, helping skin look fresh and healthy (Shahane, 2023).

9. Reduces Redness and Irritation

If you struggle with redness and skin irritation, calendula is here to help. Its soothing, calming properties work wonders on sensitive skin, reducing redness and helping to balance your complexion. Calendula can be especially helpful for those with rosacea or other skin conditions that cause chronic irritation and redness of the skin (Pommier, 2004). Struggling with Rosacea? Check out our calendula and licorice rich products, specifically picked for you.

10. It's Amazing in Your Garden!

Okay, this is not a skin benefit, but it is a life benefit!! Calendula attracts butterflies, is pollinator friendly, is super resilient, and is absolutely beautiful. On top of that, growing calendula can be regenerative to your soil, making it easier to grow other things. Calendula is delicious in tea, beautiful in a vase on your table, and lovely growing in a pot next to your front door. Check out this article about the magic of growing your own calendula at home. :)

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Shop Products with Calendula

At Ora's Amazing Herbal, we believe in the healing power of nature. Calendula is just one of the Amazing botanicals we incorporate into our natural skincare products to help you achieve healthy, radiant skin. Explore our line of calendula infused products and experience the benefits for yourself!

Touchy Skin Salve

Our first salve! With calendula, licorice, and other healing, organic herbs, this salve soothes, heals, nourishes, & protects damaged skin.
Unscented.

Calendula Oil & Salve Set

These gentle, coconut free products have a limited ingredient list, but still pack a major herbal punch. Calendula & licorice improve skin health while calming inflammation & redness.
Unscented & coconut free.

Make Up Remover Balm

Your skin deserves nourishment as you melt the day's make up away. This unscented, herbal infused balm removes the toughest make up while moisturizing skin.
Makes a perfect first step in double cleansing!

Magic Face Potion

This magical serum uses calendula alongside other Amazing botanical actives which boost collagen production, fight free radicals, and keep aging skin healthy.
Lightly scented & truly magical.

Experience the healing powers of calendula. This herbal powerhouse nourishes, heals, soothes, and improves overall skin health. We love our calendula skincare products and know you will too! :)