There are soo many things that I want to share about summer harvesting, I just don't know where to start. I write today's post about a little yellow flower we've been busy picking. It's usually called pot marigold. But the interesting thing is...it's not even really....a marigold. I'm talking about calendula. For centuries, countries in Europe have been using calendula flowers for it's healing capabilities. It is known to reduce pain & inflammation of the skin. Often, it is seen to treat wounds that have difficulty healing. It helps leg ulcers, ear infections, bladder infections, menstrual cramping, tonsillitis, gum, & tooth infections. I think you get the hint that it has huge antibacterial properties. Hip, hip, hooray for calendula!
The flowers can be made into tinctures, teas, salves, & ointments. But....if you decide to use it for a skin wound, use it only in tea form only. You could do this by placing a couple of drops onto the affected area. Salves for broken skin may cause more irritation than help. Not because of the calendula, but because of the beeswax & other oils used to make it. Salves are great for minor skin issues like eczema, minor burns, & abrasions. For the tea, all you need is a cup of boiling water & a teaspoon of dried calendula flowers or petals. Place the flowers in the hot water and cover. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes before drinking. They also make for great cold teas. A wonderful site that will help you with all your herbal needs is mountainroseherbs.com. Pricing is good & you can find calendula, plant products, & much more in bulk. Another neat thing about calendula is that studies have shown it to be safe, non-toxic with no side effects. This is great, but I still wouldn't overuse nature's pharmacy.
Hope you enjoy & give this tasty tea a try!
Happy Trails:)
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