Many of the plants that decorate and beautify our homes are also great allies when it comes to taking care of our health and beauty. There is the typical case of aloe vera, which has so many properties that it has already become essential in many homes. But there are other plants that also have many benefits for the body, and this time we are going to see the medicinal uses of calendula.
It is perfect for providing color and beauty to our home, but it also has interesting properties that will help us feel better, as we are going to tell you in this article.
Calendula is anti-inflammatory
Among the medicinal uses of calendula, its anti-inflammatory properties are especially popular and have been widely studied. Because this plant It has a high level of compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids and triterpenoids, which have proven to be very effective when it comes to fighting inflation.
Therefore, calendula is capable of interfering with specific enzymes that are involved in inflammatory processes. Helps modulate the immune response inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and, as a result, tissue inflammation is reduced.
In addition, It is also rich in antioxidants that help neutralize the action of free radicals that can trigger inflammatory processes in the body.
We can take advantage of this anti-inflammatory property of calendula through:
- Calendula-based skin creams and ointments.
- Calendula oil for topical use to massage the inflamed area.
- Compresses and poultices with calendula infusion.
- Teas or infusions.
- Nutritional supplements that have calendula among their components.
Treatment of skin conditions
Skin conditions can be complicated to treat. Luckily, among the medicinal uses of calendula is its Use on skin damaged by:
- Eczema on the skin.
- Acne.
- Sunburn.
- Wounds.
As we said before, calendula is anti-inflammatory, but It also has healing and soothing properties. Therefore, it is a very popular option when it comes to dealing with skin problems such as eczema or acne.
Relief of inflammation
Reduces inflammation associated with eczema and acne outbreaks. By applying products with calendula on damaged skin, inflammation decreases and an improvement is seen in the irritated area.
Skin healing
One of the medicinal uses of calendula is its application on wounds, because promotes healing of damaged skin and minimizes the possibility of scarring.
This is useful when there is a wound or cut, but also when the skin has been damaged as a result of a burn, an eczema or acne breakout.
Skin hydration
Creams and ointments made from calendula contain moisturizing agents that help combat dry skin. This is of great help in cases of psoriasis and eczema.
itch relief
Wounds, eczema, acne and burns They can end up causing itching, especially during the healing phase.
The calming properties of Calendula helps relieve that itching and they prevent the affected person from scratching and worsening the injury.
Support in infection prevention
Skin conditions such as eczema or acne can spread from one side to the other. The antimicrobial properties of calendula create a protective barrier that prevents self-infection.
Is it good to drink calendula infusions?
Thanks to its medicinal properties, calendula is very good for our body, and we can drink two or three cups of infusion of this plant a day.
It will help us:
- Reduce the body's inflammation processes from the inside. Something that is especially useful in case of arthritis or suffering from gastrointestinal problems.
- Heal internal or external wounds. Because it speeds up the healing process and minimizes the chances of scarring. Therefore, an infusion of this type is also recommended for those who have undergone surgery (unless the doctor indicates otherwise).
- Relieve digestive problems. It is a classic remedy to treat indigestion and gastrointestinal irritation.
- Relieve respiratory problems. An infusion of calendula has expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties that help with flu and cold processes that cause cough and congestion.
- Strengthen the immune system. Its antimicrobial properties help fight infections, supporting the immune system.
- Improve the condition of the skin. It contributes from within the body to skin care, helping to maintain its health and vitality.
- Regulate the menstrual cycle. These infusions can help regulate the menstrual cycle and relieve discomfort associated with menstruation, especially inflammation.
- Relaxation. This plant has relaxing properties and is capable of contributing to our general well-being.
How to prepare a calendula infusion
We need one or two teaspoons of dried calendula flowers. If they are fresh flowers we will use one or two tablespoons. You can buy dried calendula at your trusted herbalist.
You also need to heat water until it almost reaches the boiling point. We put the calendula flowers in a cup and Then we pour the hot water over them. We cover the cup and let it rest for five or 10 minutes so that the flowers infuse.
Then we remove the lid, strain the flowers and We drink the infusion when it is at an optimal temperature so as not to burn.
If you need to sweeten the infusion, it is better to use quality honey rather than sugar or any other sweetener. Because honey is not only healthier, but also has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties and works as an antibiotic agent. Therefore, it will reinforce the effect of calendula.
The medicinal uses of calendula have been known for centuries. So products made from this plant, and calendula infusions, can help you take care of your health. Yes, yesalways as a complement to the treatment prescribed by the specialist in every moment.