CALENDULA OFFICINALIS (Calendar)
CALENDULA OFFICINALIS (Calendar)
CALENDULA OFFICINALIS (Marigold)
1. Accelerates Wound Healing and Stimulates Epithelialization (Tissue Repair)
PMC - NIH
Marigold (Calendula officinalis) is one of the most popular medicinal herbs traditionally used in wound care, and its effects have been proven in modern clinical studies.
PMC - NIH
How Does it Do It? Scientific research shows that standardized extracts of the plant positively affect both the inflammatory and proliferative phases of the wound healing process; stimulating angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) and fibroplasia processes. This increases the levels of hydroxyproline and hexosamine, which are necessary for collagen synthesis, and rebuilds the tissue scaffold.
PMC - NIH+ 1
Conclusion: Randomized clinical trials have shown that it significantly shortens the epithelialization time and increases the wound closure rate in acute wounds on the hands and fingers. It is also an effective tissue catalyst in the management of chronic/complicated wounds such as venous, diabetic, and pressure ulcers.
PMC - NIH
For detailed information: PMC3270572, PMC9359387
2. Exhibits Strong Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Effects (Inflammation Suppression)
PMC - NIH
One of the plant's most fundamental therapeutic powers is its ability to stop acute and chronic inflammation at the cellular level.
PMC - NIH
How Does It Do It? Triterpenoid fatty acid esters (especially faradiol monoesters) found in calendula flowers are the main source of the plant's anti-inflammatory power. Pharmacological tests have revealed that these components suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IFN-γ), inhibit COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) enzyme and nitric oxide (NO) production in a dose-dependent manner.
PMC - NIH
Result: Reduces acute and chronic swelling/edema in the body. In clinical applications, it shows high success in relieving diaper rash in infants and, when applied topically, in suppressing inflammatory hypernociception (pain sensitivity).
PMC - NIH
For detailed information: PMC10142266, PMC3917203
3. Protects Gum Health and Provides Anti-Plaque Effect (Oral Care)
PMC - NIH
Calendula extract optimizes gum health by reducing the pathogenic microbial load in the oral flora.
PMC - NIH
How it works: The synergistic effect of its rich polysaccharides, flavonoids, and triterpene alcohols combats periodontopathogenic microorganisms in the oral cavity. When used as a mouthwash (tincture), it directly targets the inflammatory vascular response (vasodilation) in irritated and swollen gums.
PMC - NIH
Result: In 6-month clinical trials, it has been proven to provide very significant reductions in the dental plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and sulcus bleeding index (SBI); and to significantly prevent gingival bleeding and gingivitis.
PMC - NIH
For detailed information: PMC3917203, PMC3984193
4. Prevents Oxidative Stress and Bone Loss (Antioxidant & Periodontitis Protection)
PMC - NIH
Creates a protective shield against cellular damage and related tissue breakdown caused by free radicals.
PMC - NIH
How does it do it? Thanks to the polyphenols it contains, such as ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid, and the flavonoid quercetin, it has an extraordinary antioxidant capacity. By scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), it increases the levels of the body's natural defense enzymes GSH, SOD, and CAT, and reduces lipid peroxidation (MDA). It also supports osteoblast (bone-forming cell) differentiation by modulating the WNT signaling pathway.
PMC - NIH
Result: In periodontitis models with advanced gum inflammation, it has been shown to prevent alveolar bone loss and destruction by 42.8% and protect bone tissue. Furthermore, thanks to its high antioxidant power, it is used in cosmetic formulas as an anti-aging and photoprotective agent against UV radiation.
PMC - NIH+ 1
For detailed information: PMC5487466, PMC8773024
A Golden Consumption Note
PMC - NIH
Correct Species Selection: For medicinal purposes and skin care, the plant must be Calendula officinalis. Other marigold varieties grown as ornamental plants do not show the same therapeutic effect.
PMC - NIH
Allergy Risk Warning: As it is a plant belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae / Compositae), it is recommended that people with sensitivity or allergies to other plants in this family (daisy, artichoke, immortelle, etc.) use caution when using calendula preparations.
PMC - NIH