Irregular menstruation and skin irritation: pot marigold treatment (calendula)

A weird use of pot marigold is to replace saffron: they have nothing in common, neither the aroma nor the taste, but only the colour. Actually, many European countries use its petals to colour butter and cheese. It’s well-known from ancient times.
It is a spontaneous plant which is present throughout the year and, in Italy, it’s grown both for medical and ornamental purpose.


Calendula blossoms at dawn when the sun begins to rise and closes at sunset.
Herbal medicine uses flowers and leafs since they contain carotense, essential oils and resins.
Flowers are gathered in the morning, when they are still closed, between April and May or September and November.
Leaves are gathered from March to November.
Pot marigold is well-known for regulating menstrual flow, both during puberty and during the age preceding menopause, and to calm abdominal cramps during these periods.
It has then anti-inflammatory, decongestant, soothing and moisturizing properties.
For external use, it heals burns and soothes contusions.
Popular medicine suggests it as a foolproof remedy to eradicate calluses and to fight chilblains.

Infusion to regulate menstrual flow: to regulate menstrual cycle, it’s helpful drinking a cup of infusion prepared with 2 g (0.07 oz) of dried pot marigold flowers and 1 cup of boiling hot water 2 times per day before meals. Drink it sweetened with honey.

Decongestant compress for burns and irritations: prepare a decoction boiling 50 g (1.76 oz) of calendula leaves and flowers in half a litre of water for 8 minutes. Let it cool, drain, and use it to soak cotton compresses to apply to the affected parts for 15 minutes.
It’s highly recommended for flushed or seriously irritated skin. It gives relief for sun burns too.

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