Thursday, February 5, 2009

Calendula - "Cal-en-do-HUH?"


As promised, I am devoting a portion of the Beauty-Spirit-Passion Girl Blog to talking about the properties of natural ingredients, fun recipes to try, ingredients you should avoid, and just information in general.

Calendula ("Cal-en-do-luh") is a popular addition to many natural recipes due to it's soothing, healing properties. In addition to being a great healer, Calendula is considered to be very safe and gentle for even the most sensitive users.

The Calendula (also known as the Marigold flower)is an annual flower native to Mediterranean countries. Interestingly (well, at least to me!) the name 'Calendula' refers to the blooming schedule of the flower, which is once a month with the new moon. The name 'Marigold' refers to the Virgin Mary as Marigolds are used in Catholic events honoring her

Apparently,the Calendula was originally used as food rather than as an herb, but to be honest, I haven't tried it yet. Can't you picture it adding beautiful color to a salad though? Hmm . . . I see an experiment coming my way.

You will commonly see Calendula added to balms, salves, and oils made to heal cuts, scrapes, insect bites, and inflammation. You may also see it added to sensitive skin lotions and potions.

Next time you are in the beauty aisle of your favorite health store, look for products with Calendula (Calendula officinalis). You'll know now why it was added.

Off to make that salad . . .

Shelly

3 comments:

  1. Calendula is an awesome skin care ingredient. Back in the day, I formulated a very popular psoriasis soap for a private label line that used calendula-infused-olive oil. It's the line's best selling product and has been for 6 years running now. I'm glad you're using it in your Plein de Vie sticks. It's a great addition.

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  2. Hi Anne-Marie,

    Thanks for the comment! I totally agree - Calendula is a wonderful ingredient to add to skin care products. I am dying to know what company you created that soap for! You must feel great that it ended up being a best seller for them!

    Shelly

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