Calendula Oil

What Is Calendula Oil?

Calendula oil is a powerful medicinal oil extracted from the petals of a common species of marigold. Taxonomically known as Calendula officinalis, this type of marigold has bold, bright orange flowers, and you can derive benefits from steam distillations, oil extractions, tinctures or water-based extraction, but the most potent forms of this oil are made through oil extractions. Many oils are processed along with olive oil, and even have vitamin E added to the oil to increase its potency for skin health. That being said, pure forms of calendula oil are readily available, but it is relatively easy to make at home. The many benefits of calendula oil are due to the significant levels of triterpenoids, flavonoids, carotenoids, saponins, polysaccharides, and other active antioxidants. 

Calendula Oil Benefits and Uses

Using calendula oil is very popular for people who are struggling with chronic pain, skin irritation, wrinkles, age-related blemishes, wounds, cuts, scrapes, a weak immune system, oxidative stress, psoriasis, eczema, arthritis, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues.

Boosts Immune System

If you are worried about boosting your immune system, look no further than calendula oil, which can protect against numerous pathogens, due to its antibacterial properties. This is particularly effective in topical remedies, such as cuts, scrapes, and bug bites. The oil can not only stimulate rapid healing and soothe inflammation, but also protect the wound from becoming infected.

Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Regularly applying this oil to your joints and muscles can help those who experience chronic discomfort. It is also used to lessen swelling after injuries and sprains. You can also consume small amounts of calendula oil to help with digestive issues. Some people choose to use it in salad dressings, so while large amounts are not recommended, a small amount of internal consumption is safe.

Prevents Oxidative Stress

With a rich supply of carotenoids, flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, calendula oil is an excellent way to eliminate free radicals and prevent the development of oxidative stress. This can be a major boost to your skin, as well as the rest of your body, as free radicals cause things like wrinkles and age spots. By boosting your antioxidant levels, you can stimulate the growth of new skin cells and increase collagen cross-binding to improve elasticity.

Skin Care

If your skin is dry, cracked, inflamed, or infected in any way, applying calendula oil can quickly clear up these problems. Inflammatory conditions like acne, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis affect millions of people, but the powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antioxidant compounds in this oil can soothe that discomfort.

Treats Stomach Disorders

If you feel like your stomach is always upset, or that you’re not getting the proper amount of nutrition from your meals, you may need to optimize your digestive tracts. Adding small amounts of calendula oil to your salads and other dishes can help lower inflammation in the gut and prevent bacterial infections, which can help cramping, bloating, excess flatulence and constipation.

Soothes Diaper Rash

Despite being a potent and powerful oil, it is safe to use calendula oil on the skin of babies, as it is primarily packed with antioxidants and positive compounds. For diaper rash, it is one of the few natural oils that are highly recommended for infants’ delicate skin. Apply a small amount to the affected area 1-2 times daily for best results.