Herbs

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December 31, 2004

Calendula

Reprinted from the July 1996 (print) issue of Howling at the Moon (also by Bluewolf)

This herb is actually a flower -- Calendula -- better known as the Marigold.

Calendula derives its name from the Latin calends, which denotes the first day of each month. It was so called because the yellow and orange flowers were said to be in bloom on every calends throughout the year in ancient Rome.

Its botanical name is Calendula officinalis. The parts used by herbalists are the yellow petals (florets), which are gathered between June and September. The petals should be dried with care to prevent discoloration.

Calendula is used internally as well as externally. Its known properties and uses are: anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, aperient, astringent, cholagogue, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, and vulnerary. An infusion of the flowers can be used for such gastro-intestinal inflammations as ulcers, stomach cramps, colitis, and diarrhea. For digestive problems it may be used with Marshmallow Root and American Cranesbill. Calendula, taken internally, has a reputation for helping delayed menstruation and painful periods. It is a general normalizer of the menstrual process. It is also useful for fever, boils, abscesses, and to prevent recurrent vomiting. Marigold also has a marked anti-fungal activity, and can be used both internally and externally to combat such infections.

Externally, Marigold is one of the best herbs for treating local skin problems. It may be used safely wherever there is an inflammation on the skin, whether due to infection or physical damage. It may be used for any external bleeding or wound, bruising or strains. It will also benefit slow-healing wounds or skin ulcers. It is ideal for first aid treatment of minor burns and scalds. Local treatments may be with a lotion, poltice, or compress, whichever is most appropriate. As an external soothing application it can be used with Slippery Elm and any other relevant remedy. For first aid of minor burns and scalds, it combines well with Aloe. A useful antiseptic lotion will be produced by combining it with Golden Seal and Myrrh.

Preparation and dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 1 - 2 teaspoonsful of the florets and leave to infuse for 10 - 15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Juice: take 1 teaspoon at a time, always freshly pressed. Tincture: to make, soak a handful of the flowers in 1/2 quart of rectified alcohol or whiskey for 5 to 6 weeks. A dose is 5 to 20 drops. Salve: Boil 1 ounce of dried flowers, or 1 teaspoon of fresh juice, with 1 ounce of lard.

Some of the alchemical and folk names of Calendula are: Summer's Bride, Husbandman's Dial, Holigold, Marybud, Bride of the Sun, and Spousa Solis. Due to the rayed nature of the petals, the planet associated with this herb is the Sun. The digestive relief it affords relates this herb to Cancer, which rules the stomach. Marigolds are also related to the fixed star Procyon. Its basic magical uses involve love and clairvoyance.

If gathered when the sun is in Leo, wrapped in a Laurel leaf or May tree leaf, and a wolf's tooth is added, no man shall be able to have one word to speak against the bearer thereof, but words of peace.

Placing the flower beneath the head at night will induce clairvoyant dreams. If anything is stolen, use a sachet of Marigold at night and a vision of the thief will be shown in the dreams.

Place Marigold in church and unfaithful wives will not enter. This herb is often added to love sachets. It should be gathered at noon.

The scent of flowers strengthens and maintains health. In the past, fresh calendula blossoms were sniffed to sharpen the eyesight. The scent has been known to comfort the weary and distressed. A vase of these flowers in any room immediately brings a renewed surge of life to everyone in it. Calendula petals add a refreshing lift to bath salt and foot soak recipes.

Posted by BlueWolf on December 31, 2004 02:28 AM