Calendula

Genus & Species: Calendula officinalis
Common Names: Scotch Marigold, Pot Marigold, Ruddles, Gold Bloom, Poor Man’s Saffron
Overview: Calendula is an aromatic flowering annual with resinous and fragrant stems topped with bright orange or yellow flowers. It’s native to Southern Europe, but has now naturalized to much of the world. Historically, calendula was seen as having numerous metaphysical properties. It was thought that the plant had the ability to ward off evil spirits and infectious diseases if one hung the flowers on the door of their home or improve eyesight if one stared at the blooms for a few moments everyday. [1] It was also used for more practical purposes like adding color and flavor to food as a dying cloth during the middle ages in Europe, where it was named Poor Man’s Saffron, s. [2]
Therapeutic Properties: Anti-inflammatory, topical analgesic, astringent, antiseptic, vulnerary, lymphagogue, cholagogue, hemostatic [3]
Typical Uses: When it comes to topically applied herbs, calendula is true royalty. It’s commonly infused into a carrier oil which is then applied onto injured areas of the body. Calendula can be effectively used on burns, scrapes, rashes, bruises, and even bee stings. Its analgesic action allows calendula to offer immediate relief, while its anti-inflammatory, lymphagogue, and vulnerary actions begin to remedy the root cause of discomfort. Calendula’s potent healing properties make it an ideal herb for repairing and protecting skin from everyday environmental damage. [1] 

References:

1. Calendula (Calendula Officinalis) | Herb Rally

2. Calendula | Mountain Rose Herbs

3. A Family Herb: Helpful Calendula Blossoms | Herbal Academy