Calendula is commonly used to treat all kinds of diseases, especially skin irritations. Its topical use is widespread; However, do you know what is the use of consuming calendula infusion?
It is said that this plant has healing, repairing, moisturizing and, as is well known, healing properties. In this article, we analyze all its health benefits and tell you which ones have scientific backing.
The calendula plant
Calendula is an annual plant with nice and striking orange or yellow flowers. In a colloquial way, it is known as a Wonder plant due to its cheerful flowers with a delicious aroma.
Although there are different varieties of marigolds, the best known is Calendula officinalis. All of them are perennial and belong to the Asteraceae family.
The marigold, also called mercadela or buttercup, can reach 55 centimeters in height. You can recognize it by its oval and lanceolate leaves between 7 and 14 centimeters long.
Its flowers usually bloom in spring-summer, although it is possible for the plant to bloom throughout the year if the weather conditions are favourable.
Being a small and resistant plant, it can be easily grown on the balcony or in the garden. To grow strong and healthy, it requires direct sun and frequent watering (3-4 times a week) during the hottest months. When temperatures drop, two weekly waterings are enough.
Health benefits of calendula infusion
Traditionally, calendula has been used by the pharmaceutical industry to make skin care creams. In fact, one of the most popular is calendula diaper rash cream.
However, this plant has numerous properties that make the consumption of calendula infusion advisable.
Antimicrobial effect
Calendula has a proven antimicrobial action that would help keep the oral cavity free of germs that can cause illness.
A detailed clinical case in the Cuban Journal of Stomatology corroborated this information when a patient after periodontal disease was recommended the use of calendula mouthwashes to eliminate possible pathogens and accelerate tissue healing.
Antiseptic property
This effect can help eliminate the presence of germs that cause other illnesses, such as colds, sore throats, or the flu.
Anti-inflammatory property
The extract of calendula flowers has a proven anti-inflammatory effect. For this reason, it is considered that drinking its infusion would relieve all kinds of discomfort related to inflammation, such as those caused by arthritis, osteoarthritis, as well as sports-related stiffness, among others.
Regulates the menstrual cycle
This is one of the most interesting properties for women who have an irregular menstrual cycle. Drinking calendula infusion helps regularize the cycle and normalize the amount of menstruation.
Improves menstrual symptoms
In addition to regularizing menstruation, calendula has an antispasmodic effect that relieves menstrual cramps and also uterine pain called dysmenorrhea.
Promotes healing
And we are not only referring to the healing of the skin due to wounds, but also the healing of internal wounds such as those caused by gastritis or ulcers. Its anti-inflammatory function would also help relieve symptoms in the long term.
Activates bile production
Choleretic effects are attributed to this plant, that is, it would increase the production of bile, thus collaborating with liver decongestion. We have not found scientific information about it.
What does calendula infusion taste like?
Beyond its health properties, calendula infusion is tasty, with a bitter aftertaste, and comforting.
If you don’t like bitter drinks too much, you can choose to add a teaspoon of honey or agave syrup. In this way, you will sweeten it and you will also add the health properties of honey.
How to prepare calendula infusion
Its preparation, like other infusions that we have already analyzed in Infusionism, is extremely easy.
First, you must buy calendula in your trusted herbalist. Remember that if possible, it is better to go for bulk products since the bags usually contain more powder and, therefore, the taste may be a little different. Buying in bulk guarantees, after all, a higher quality.
Another option, if you have a calendula plant at home, is to use fresh flowers. To do this, cut the flowers and let them dry upside down in a place without too much humidity. Once the flowers are dry, separate the petals and you already have your calendula to infuse!
Ingredients
- 2 grams of dried petals
- 1 cup of water
Elaboration
- Heat the water until it reaches a boil.
- Add the 2 grams of dried calendula petals
- Turn off the heat and let stand for about 10 minutes
- Strain, add honey and drink.
Note: remember to use a wide pot to allow the petals to move in the water and thus extract their essential oils.
Other idea? Drink it cold in the summer, with a few ice cubes or, better yet, prepare a mojito tea. To do this, combine a cup of calendula infusion with a cup of green tea; let the mixture rest, and add to complete some mint leaves, two tablespoons of honey and plenty of ice. If you want the glass to be even more colorful, add some marigold petals to decorate.
Do you dare to try calendula infusion and benefit from its extensive health properties?