Marigold medicinal use in medicine. Calendula (marigold medicinal): use in traditional medicine. Diseases of the upper respiratory tract

Calendula officinalis (marigold, solstice, flower of the dead, gold color, oil color, crocus) - annual herbaceous plant with a pronounced antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, choleretic, wound-healing effect. The herb is used in gynecology, gastroenterology, neurology, cardiology, dermatology and cosmetology.

Medicinal properties and contraindications of calendula are known in many European countries. Since ancient times, it has been used as a wound healing and anti-inflammatory medicine. And each nation has its own myths and legends associated with this plant. For example, in England, the grass is called "Mary's gold", it refers to the sacred flower and is associated with the Virgin Mary. Wedding bouquets are made from marigold here. Among the Germans and Austrians, it is the “grass of the dead” or “the flower of the dead”. According to these peoples, the tart smell of the plant resembles a corpse smell. It is also customary to bring these flowers to graves and funerals. Russian name"marigolds" is associated with a fairy tale plot. The calendula is also famous outside of Europe. In India it is a flower of Krishna, in China it is a "grass of ten thousand years."

Features of calendula

Among medicinal plants Calendula takes pride of place as an antiseptic herb. It is not inferior in popularity in folk and traditional medicine chamomile, plantain, sage, marshmallow, St. John's wort, oak bark and others medicinal herbs antiseptic action.

area

Marigolds are a heat-loving plant. In a wild-growing form, a flower cannot be found on the territory of the European part of Russia. But the grass is successfully cultivated in climatic conditions Central Russian strip, as well as in the North Caucasus. And it is often grown for beauty and aesthetics in gardens, gardens, flower beds. The birthplace of the flower southern regions Europe, Mediterranean, Southwest Asia.

Botanical characteristic

Calendula officinalis is an annual plant up to 75 cm high. The root is taproot, the stem is upright, branched. The leaves are oblong, slightly pubescent. Calendula is recognized by single orange or bright yellow flower baskets, which reach 4 cm or more in diameter. Although in recent times decorative varieties with large, fluffy baskets up to 8 cm or more have been bred. Many gardeners appreciate this plant for its unpretentiousness and long flowering. It starts in June and ends in October.

Collection and preparation

If you have a personal plot or cottage, you can easily harvest grass yourself. How to grow this plant? And how to properly dry raw materials in order to preserve the medicinal properties of calendula?

• Disembarkation. Marigolds propagate by seeds, which can be freely bought. The plant takes root and sprouts well, but loves moisture and a lot of light. You can sow the seeds in April or even in May, you can also do it in the fall.
• Collection. Collect fully opened flowers. Do it in dry weather. Collect only flower baskets throughout the entire flowering period.
• Drying. Collected flowers must be dried very quickly (no later than 4 hours after they were plucked). Raw materials are laid out thin layer, dried in a room with good ventilation, attics and sheds are suitable for this purpose. It is not recommended to dry the grass in electric dryers. How to understand that the grass is dried? You need to press your fingers on the inflorescence. If it breaks up into petals, the raw material can be packed.
• Storage. You can store marigold flowers in cardboard boxes, wooden boxes, glassware. The shelf life of raw materials is 2 years.

Some herbalists indicate a different shelf life - 1 year. Experienced herbalists recommend updating any kind of medicinal raw materials annually.

Healing properties and active substances

Useful properties of calendula:

• bactericidal;
• anti-inflammatory;
• hematopoietic;
• blood-purifying;
• antispasmodic;
• secretory (choleretic);
• painkiller;
• diuretic;
• cardiotonic;
• hypotensive;
• wound healing;
• diaphoretic.

Active ingredients:

• essential oil (gives a pungent smell and taste);
• calendine;
• resins;
• organic acids;
• phytoncides;
• carotenoids and provitamin A (orange);
• bitterness;
• saponins;
• glycosides;
• enzymes.

Indications

Under what diagnoses and symptoms is grass prescribed?

• Organs of the gastrointestinal tract. Chronic forms of stomach ulcers, gastritis, inflammation of the spleen, gallbladder, liver, biliary tract, inflammation of the intestine (colitis, enterocolitis). Under the influence of grass falls elevated bilirubin in the blood, cholesterol is reduced.
• Respiratory diseases. Decoctions of marigolds treat cough with acute respiratory viral infections, bronchitis, tracheitis, pneumonia. It is recommended to take herbal preparations - calendula and St. John's wort. When coughing, drink decoctions of calendula or take drops of tincture under the tongue. This method well relieves attacks of obsessive coughing.
• Diseases of the urinary system. Inflammation of the bladder, kidneys, bladder stones.
• Cardiology and neurology. The herb enhances cardiac activity, is also useful for shortness of breath, arrhythmias, hypertension, relieves swelling, headaches, and soothes nervous system and normalizes sleep.
• Gynecology. Marigolds help if there are failures menstrual cycle, vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea) with inflammation, cervical erosion, fibroids, uterine bleeding.
• External use of marigold flowers. The antiseptic and wound-healing effect of marigolds is an indisputable fact in folk and traditional medicine. They are treated non-healing ulcers and body wounds diabetes, burns, frostbite, fistulas, cuts, boils, lichen, skin rash purulent nature, warts and calluses, cracks in hemorrhoids. Used for inflammation of the eyes - barley, conjunctivitis, blepharitis. Actively used in dentistry and otolaryngology: rinsing oral cavity with periodontal disease, stomatitis, gingivitis, throat - with tonsillitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis; washing the nose with a runny nose, sinusitis. The tool is used in the form of lotions, compresses, baths, washings. In addition to decoctions and infusions, fresh plant juice is used externally.

Calendula contraindications: pregnancy at any time due to the threat of miscarriage, plant juice is especially dangerous for pregnant women; reduced arterial pressure; exacerbation of diseases of the digestive tract; bradycardia. Take with caution when bronchial asthma. Calendula is a hypoallergenic plant and rarely causes allergies. Grass is prohibited for children under 12 years of age for internal use. It is not recommended to drink with sedatives, including plant origin- valerian and mint.

Application at home

What is the use of marigold flowers in folk and traditional medicine?

Pharmacy preparations

The medicinal properties of calendula herbs are widely used in pharmacology. It can be purchased in various dosage forms.

• Vegetable raw materials "Calendula flowers". In the pharmacy, you can buy loose grass and in the form of filter bags for one-time brewing. If loose grass is brewed, take 3 tbsp. l. dry raw materials per 200 ml of water. To brew packaged calendula, take 2 bags per 100 ml of water.
• Calendula oil. The bottle contains 30 ml of oil. it effective remedy for care sensitive skin faces. It is also used for massage. The oil contains vitamin C, which promotes collagen growth and cell repair. Also in the composition there is rosemary - an extract for rejuvenation, tightening mature skin. It acts gently, perfectly heals minor scratches, cuts, protects against sunburn softens rough skin. It can be used even in infants, treating diaper rash. The oil is used to protect the skin in windy, frosty weather.
• Ointment. It contains homeopathic tincture of calendula and petroleum jelly. The main purpose of the ointment is antiseptic, it is used to treat diaper rash, cracks and other types of skin lesions - dermatitis, eczema.
• Homeopathic preparations. Medicinal marigolds are widely used in homeopathy (in the form of granules). They are taken orally in various dilutions depending on the diagnosis and age. It is also widely used externally in the form of ointments and diluted infusions for skin lesions, for the rapid healing of wounds and ulcers.

Preparation of medicines at home: 3 recipes

From marigolds, you can prepare teas, decoctions, water infusions, alcohol and oil tinctures. Before using them, it is better to consult a doctor. It is important to know that decoctions with calendula, chamomile and yarrow enhance the choleretic effect. Such a mixture can provoke a severe exacerbation. How to cook grass to keep it healing properties?

tea preparation

1. Put in a cup 1 tsp. dry raw materials.
2. Fill with boiling water.
3. Steam for 10 minutes.
4. Strain.

Tea can be drunk to prevent chronic gastrointestinal diseases. Safe dosage- 2 glasses a day.

How to prepare calendula infusion

1. Put 2 tbsp. l. herbs in a bowl.
2. Pour in a glass hot water(not boiling water!).
3. Hold in a water bath for 20 minutes.
4. Infuse for half an hour, then strain.

Store in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days. Dosage: ¼ cup before meals 3 times a day.

Preparation of alcohol tincture

1. For 3 st. l. flowers, take 100 g of alcohol (40%).
2. Soak for 7 days in a glass dish in a dark place.
3. Strain.

The tincture can be used undiluted (drip 10 drops under the tongue and dissolve) or dilute 30 drops in ¼ cup of water. Also alcohol solution applied externally in a diluted form. What helps tincture of calendula? It is most effective in diseases of the liver and gallbladder, coughing fits, neuroses, insomnia, cardiac disorders, hypertension. Of course it is effective antiseptic for the treatment of the throat and oral cavity, wounds, boils, abscesses.

Application in gynecology

For women, calendula can be effective for cervical erosion, vaginal discharge with inflammation, menstrual irregularities, and other symptoms. It is used in the form of tampons, douching from decoctions, ointments. Alcohol tincture can only be taken orally. All these procedures should be carried out only after consultation with a gynecologist.

• Calendula for douching. It is prescribed as an antiseptic for colpitis, cervical erosion, and whites. For douching, a weak decoction of calendula is made in the following way: for 0.5 liters of water, take 1 tbsp. l. herbs. Douching with a warm decoction is carried out in the morning and evening. The course of treatment is 5 days.
• Myoma of the uterus. Fibroids and fibromyomas are benign tumors of the uterus, which most often provoke elevated level estrogen. How can calendula help with fibroids and its varieties? The herb has the ability to purify the blood and liver, remove toxins and toxins from the body. This indirectly affects the condition of the organs reproductive system. In addition, the plant promotes the resorption of tumors. With fibroids, calendula is usually prescribed along with other herbs - mistletoe, celandine, mint, hops, knotweed, horsetail. Of these, decoctions are prepared for douching. And for ingestion, an infusion of such plants is brewed - calendula, rosehip, viburnum, nettle, pine and. This fortified drink strengthens immune system which is also important for recovery.
• Climax. Calendula helps relieve nervous tension, anxiety, irritability in the premenopausal period. Meet positive reviews women middle age about beneficial effect herbs on the nervous system and its mild sedative effect.
• Menstrual disorders. There is ambiguous information in folk herbalists: some write that the herb causes menstruation, others indicate that it acts as a hemostatic agent. Alcohol tincture is drunk when the cycle fails, menstruation is delayed. However, we must not forget that only a doctor after an examination can determine the cause of cycle disorders, which is often associated with hormonal imbalance.

Marigolds are also useful for men. Calendula is a part of fees that increase potency. It is brewed together with St. John's wort, valerian,. The herb is also effective for male candidiasis (thrush). From decoctions of calendula and chamomile, lotions and compresses are made, washing the genitals.

Application in cosmetology

Marigolds enhance metabolic, regenerating processes in cells, relieve inflammation and irritation, the grass is useful for problematic skin. Calendula - natural antiseptic. Its extract is found in many cosmetics- lotions, creams, tonics, shampoos, soaps.

• Acne tincture of calendula. Lotions are made from it, a homemade lotion that is suitable for the care of sensitive skin. However, alcohol tincture is not used in its pure form, so as not to get burns, irritation, and overdrying of the skin. She is bred boiled water. Such a solution saves from acne, seborrhea, dries oily skin with wide pores. If the skin is sensitive and dry, use only decoctions.
• Calendula for hair It can be used as a mask and conditioner. Helps with dandruff, strengthens hair roots, removes oily sheen. The mask is made from castor oil and alcohol tincture (proportion 10:1). Such masks can be done before washing your hair for a month. With dry scalp, water decoctions of marigolds are suitable for rinsing.
• Warm foot baths. Prepared at the rate of: for 1 liter of water - 2 tbsp. l. herbs. It's good disinfectant, softens rough skin, cracked heels, eliminates diaper rash between the fingers.

The most effective is the external use of calendula as a powerful antiseptic and wound healing agent. But also infusions and decoctions of marigolds successfully treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, urogenital area in women and men, lower respiratory tract, neuroses.

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Calendula officinalis or in the common people marigold is a favorite plant of many summer residents. It's an annual ornamental plant with yellow or bright orange flowers, unpretentious, cold-resistant, blooms until frost, is found everywhere in flower beds and adorns them with its beauty.

Chemical composition

Application

Calendula is widely used both in folk and in official medicine, in pharmacology, in homeopathy, in cosmetology. Made from calendula medications- tinctures, ointments, creams, oils. Calendula is also included in the composition of the tablets. Extracts from flower baskets are added to cosmetic skin care creams, shampoos, lotions, and soaps.

Medicinal properties of calendula

An analgesic, wound-healing effect of calendula has been established, it relieves swelling and itching from insect bites - mosquitoes, wasps, bees. It is enough to lubricate the wound with fresh leaf juice or tincture of calendula and the itching stops. For washing wounds, fresh juice of inflorescences is used. Infusion, tincture and ointment are used for burns and frostbite, for the treatment of skin problems, for scrofula, for ulcers and fistulas.

Calendula has a calming effect on the nervous system, reduces excitability and blood pressure, purifies the blood, is used to treat heart disease, hypertension. It is used to improve sleep, increase efficiency, to relieve headaches.

Apply calendula as a diuretic, choleretic, diaphoretic. For stomach ulcers and duodenum, with diseases of the liver, intestines, spleen, with hepatitis and inflammatory processes in bile ducts use tincture and infusions of calendula.

Calendula preparations are widely used in gynecology and oncology, infusions from inflorescences are used in the form of douches for cervical erosion.

Creams, ointments and oils are used to treat skin diseases, burns, frostbite, varicose veins veins, to heal cracks in the heels and hands, to relieve itching and irritation. In cosmetology for hair care, for the skin of the hands, face.

Contraindications

Preparations from calendula, like any medicine, should be taken only after consultation with your doctor!

People suffering from heart vascular diseases, as well as those who have low blood pressure, use calendula with caution and only after consulting a doctor - calendula increases heart rate and lowers blood pressure.

In people with allergies, calendula can cause skin irritation.

The use of calendula preparations inside is contraindicated for pregnant women, since calendula can provoke an abortion. And also for children under 12 years old, you can use calendula for internal use only after consulting with your doctor.

Folk recipes for the use of calendula

For treatment various diseases, for the treatment of wounds, most often in folk medicine they use tincture of calendula. Tincture can be bought at a pharmacy, or you can cook it yourself.

Pour 2 tablespoons of crushed fresh calendula flowers into a glass jar, pour half a glass of alcohol or vodka. Infuse for two weeks in a dark place at room temperature, periodically shaking the jar. After two weeks, the tincture must be filtered and squeezed. Pour into a dark glass bottle and store in the refrigerator for one year. Apply the tincture for its intended purpose externally or internally.

Recipe number 2

Grind fresh or dry calendula flowers, take 1 tablespoon, put it in a jar and pour a glass of vodka to infuse in a warm, dark place for 7 days. Strain, take orally or externally.

Tinctures treat diseases such as,

- Acne

Dilute the tincture with water 1:40, wash your face 3 times a day for 4 weeks.

- acne

Treat pimples with tincture of diluted water 3 times, lubricate pimples in the morning and evening cotton swab trying not to get hit healthy skin so as not to dry it out. In the next article we will talk about others.

With minor burns in the tincture, a bandage or gauze is moistened and applied to the burned area.

- Angina

Dilute 1 tablespoon of tincture in 1 glass of water, gargle 2-3 times a day.

- Hypertension

Take 20 drops of tincture three times a day.

- Gynecological diseases, cervical erosion

Dilute the tincture with water 1:10 and use for douching.

Diseases of the liver, gallbladder, gastrointestinal tract

Treatment should be carried out according to the scheme: start with 20 drops of tincture and gradually increase the dosage to 1 tablespoon. Apply tincture 2-3 times a day.

Infusion of calendula

Angina

Pour 1 tablespoon of calendula with a glass of boiling water, leave for 1 hour in a thermos or wrapped in a towel, strain. Gargle 3 times a day, make inhalation from the infusion.

Stomatitis

Pour 20 grams of calendula flowers with a glass of boiling water, insist, dilute the infusion with water in a ratio of 1: 2 and rinse the mouth.

Gastritis, gastric ulcer, liver disease

Grind marigold flowers, take 1 tablespoon, pour a glass cold water, heat for 15 minutes in a boiling water bath, cool and strain. Add boiled water to a volume of 1 cup. Take 3 times a day, 1 tablespoon.

Pour 2 teaspoons of fresh or dried calendula flowers with 2 cups of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes, strain. Take orally half a glass of infusion 3-4 times a day.

Decoctions of calendula

Dry calendula - 2 tablespoons pour 500 ml of water, boil for 5 minutes, leave for 1 hour, strain and take 1 third of a glass 3-4 times a day.

Arrhythmia

Pour 2 teaspoons of calendula inflorescences with 2 cups of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, strain. Drink half a glass of infusion 3 times a day.

Ointment from calendula

Ointment recipe number 1

Grind dry calendula flowers into powder, take 50 grams, mix with 200 gr. ghee domestic lard. Put on a boil water bath and stir constantly to bring the mass to a homogeneous state. Cool, transfer to a glass container and store in the refrigerator.

Ointment recipe number 2

Grind a glass of dry flowers and leaves of calendula into powder. Melt 250 grams of internal lard in a saucepan, add 1 cup of chopped calendula, mix the whole mixture thoroughly. Insist for 12 hours. Add 20 grams beeswax, heat and strain the mixture. Keep the ointment in the refrigerator.

Recipe #3

Grind 1 teaspoon of dried flowers to a powder and grind with 1 tablespoon of Vaseline.
Calendula ointment is used externally to treat poorly healing wounds, burns and cracks, allergic rashes and diaper rash in newborns, and varicose veins.

Calendula oil has a bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effect and promotes rapid healing wounds and tissue repair. Used to protect the skin of the face and hands from harmful effects environment, for the treatment of diseases of internal organs, for external use with problematic skin.

To prepare the oil, you need fresh flowers and leaves of calendula. Fill a glass jar with calendula volume and pour vegetable or olive oil to the top. Close the lid and refrigerate for 10 days, shaking the jar daily. Strain the mixture and store in the refrigerator.

Apply externally to treat burns, wounds, cracks on the hands and heels, on the nipples of nursing mothers, with varicose veins, with diaper rash and ulcers.

Inside, calendula oil is used to treat gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers, liver and biliary tract.

Fresh flowers and leaves of marigold

Calendula for the beauty of the face and hair

1 tablespoon of dried calendula flowers, crushed into powder, add 1 tablespoon of crushed oatmeal, mix, pour large quantity boiling water, mix, apply the mass on the skin of the face and neck for 20 minutes, then rinse warm water. It is advisable to make such a mask 3 times a week. The calendula mask smoothes fine wrinkles, improves skin tone, rejuvenates, relieves itching and irritation.

Mask for normal skin

5 tablespoons of dried calendula flowers, pour 100 ml of boiling water, put in a dark place for 1 hour, strain, mix the gruel with 3 tablespoons of liquid honey. Apply the mass on the face and neck for 15 minutes. This mask should be done 2-3 times a week for 2 months, then a break for 1 month and again repeat another 1 course. This mask is suitable for normal skin types.

Mask for dry skin

1 tablespoon of dried flowers pour 100 ml of boiling water. Beat 1 yolk and mix with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, pour into the infusion with calendula. Mix the mixture thoroughly and apply on the face and neck for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water, then lubricate the face with a moisturizer. Do this mask 3 times a week.

Mask for oily skin

1 tablespoon dried flowers, powdered, 1 tablespoon flour, pour in this amount warm water to make a mixture like dough for pancakes. Apply the mass on the face and neck for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cool water. This mask degreases the skin and helps to get rid of purulent acne. Make a mask 3 times a week.

Mask for enlarged pores and acne

100 grams of fresh flowers and leaves of calendula in the evening pour 3 glasses cool water and insist all night, in the morning boil the infusion for 5 minutes and insist for another 1 hour. On the cleansed skin of the face and neck, apply a layer of gauze or cotton wool soaked in calendula infusion for 20-30 minutes. Do not wash your face after the procedure. This mask should be done 3 times a week.

Mask against freckles and age spots

1 tablespoon juice squeezed from fresh leaves and flowers, mixed with 1 tablespoon juice of lemon, orange or black or red currants, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, mix, apply on face 3 times a week for 15 minutes. Instead of calendula juice, you can use 1 tablespoon of calendula infusion. This mask brightens dark spots and freckles.

Calendula for freckles

Mix 1 tablespoon of juice squeezed from calendula leaves with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or 1 tablespoon of red currant juice and rub freckles twice a day.

Calendula lotion for inflamed skin

Add 2 tablespoons of calendula tincture and 2 teaspoons of honey to a glass of water, mix everything thoroughly, insist for a day. Wipe face 2 times a day. This lotion will help inflammatory process and reduce the appearance of acne.

Good day, dear readers!

In today's article, we will consider with you such a wonderful medicinal plant as calendula, as well as its beneficial features, contraindications, composition and treatment of calendula. So…

Calendula (lat. Calendula)- a genus of herbaceous flowering plants annual plants Aster family. Calendula has long been used as.

Another name for calendula is “marigolds”, which is associated with characteristic view her seeds.

Calendula blooms with orange-yellow flowers, which is why it is used not only in medicinal purposes but also in ornamental floriculture. The flowering of the plant begins in June and ends in September. In the same period, bees use it as a source of material for production. Reproduction occurs by seeds. Calendula does not require any special conditions for cultivation.

In folk medicine, for treatment, mainly calendula inflorescences (baskets) are used. For harvesting, the inflorescences are collected during the flowering period, when the basket has already fully blossomed. Baskets are cut at the base of the peduncle and dried for about 4 hours in an air dryer at a temperature of about 45 degrees Celsius. Flowers can be stored for use no more than 2 years.

The chemical composition of calendula

The medicinal properties of calendula are due to various biologically active substances contained in this plant.

The composition of calendula includes:

• carotenoids - pigments that are necessary for synthesis;
• sterols - alcohols, similar in structure to cholesterol, passing through the digestive system are absorbed instead of "real" cholesterol, thus lowering its level;
• triterpenoids - give the anti-inflammatory effect of flowers;
• flavonoids - relieve spasm smooth muscle, stimulate the production of bile, the formation and
• selection in sufficient quantities urine, neutralize and remove harmful substances from the body (detoxifying properties), eliminate and prevent inflammation and tumors, promote healing of stomach or duodenal ulcers;
• essential oils - inhibit the development of microorganisms or contribute to their death;
• coumarins - contribute to the elimination of inflammatory processes.

Marigold flowers also contain: potassium, iron, copper, zinc, molybdenum and selenium.

Medicinal properties of calendula

In medicine, calendula is used for many diseases, for example:

• for the treatment of ulcers, burns, wounds, bruises, acne;
• cardiovascular disease associated with increased heart rate(), shortness of breath and swelling;
• arterial hypertension (hypertension);
• gastritis, colitis, enterocolitis;
• peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum;
• inflammatory diseases liver and biliary tract;
• tonsillitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis and inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
• stomatitis, periodontal disease;
• cervical erosion;
• trichomonas colpitis;
• thrush (candidiasis);
• in time .

In addition, calendula has the following properties:

• anti-inflammatory;
• wound healing;
• bactericidal;
• antispasmodic;
• blood-purifying;
• bile and diuretic;
• soothing;
• reduces reflex excitability;
• accelerates the processes of tissue regeneration;
• raises secretory function liver and stomach;
• improves the composition of bile.

Calendula - contraindications for admission

Calendula is contraindicated in:

• pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• low blood pressure;
• exacerbation;
• children under 12 years old.

Calendula should also not be used with herbs that have a sedative effect.

Calendula very rarely causes allergies, but in people who suffer from plants of the Asteraceae family (chamomile, chrysanthemum, daisy, etc.), it can give skin reactions in the form, itching and others. Therefore, before using calendula, check the reaction on the skin.

Mix alcohol tincture of calendula in a glass of water at the rate of 1 tbsp. a spoonful of tincture in a glass of water. Gargle 2-3 times a day.

. Make a collection of 4 tbsp. spoons of calendula flowers, 1 tbsp. spoons of blackcurrant leaves and 2 tbsp. spoons of strawberry leaves, mix everything thoroughly. Further, 1 tbsp. Pour a spoonful of collection with a glass of boiling water, cover the container with a lid and let the product brew for about 30 minutes, then strain. You need to take an infusion of 100 g, 5 times a day, 20 minutes before meals.

. Pour 10 g of calendula with 200 ml of boiling water, let it brew, then drink 1-3 tbsp. spoons 3 times a day.

. 1 teaspoon pharmacy tincture dilute calendula with a glass of boiled water and rinse your mouth throughout the day.

Periodontitis. Pour 10 g of calendula with a glass of boiling water, leave for 2 hours, strain and rinse the mouth cavity with infusion throughout the day.

. 1 st. pour a spoonful of calendula with a glass of boiling water, put the product on the stove and boil it for about 10 minutes over low heat. The resulting decoction, in a warm form, rinse the mouth.

. 1 st. pour a spoonful of calendula with a glass of boiling water, leave for 1 hour. Strain, rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day.

Dilute the purchased tincture of calendula (1 teaspoon per 1 cup of boiled water) and rinse your mouth the same number of times.

. Pour 15 g of calendula with a glass of cold boiled water, let stand in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, strain. Use warm as lotions and compresses.

Blennorea. 1 st. pour a spoonful of calendula with a glass of boiling water, wrap with a towel and let stand for 30-40 minutes, then strain thoroughly. You can use such a tool for washing the eyes, as well as lotions and compresses on the eyes, but only in a warm form, so as not to catch a cold of the optic nerve.

, and , liver disease. 1 st. pour a spoonful of calendula with a glass of cold water, heat for 15 minutes in a boiling water bath, cool and strain. Add boiled water to a volume of 1 cup. Take 3 times a day for 1 tbsp. spoon.chamomile. Next, pour 20 g of the collection with 2 cups of boiled water, let the product brew for 10 hours. After, bring the product to a boil and boil over low heat for about 5 minutes, cool and strain. Drink throughout the day.

Enlargement of the spleen. Mix in equal proportions calendula and. 20 g of the collection, pour 500 ml of boiling water, insist in a warm place for 40 minutes. Strain and take 1/3 cup 2 times a day.

. Make a collection of 2 parts marigold flowers, 3 parts wormwood herb, 5 parts sunflower flowers, and 10 parts centaury herb. 1 st. brew a spoonful of the collection in a glass of boiling water, let it brew for 40 minutes. Strain, take 0.5 cups 4 times a day, before meals.

Bruises, abrasions, bruises, etc. Lubricate the damaged area with ointment or alcohol tincture calendula inflorescences (see recipe above).

Washing tonic. Pour 1 teaspoon of calendula with a glass of boiling water and let the product brew for about 30 minutes, then strain, cool and use for washing.

Acne. 50 g of calendula, pour 0.5 liters of vodka and insist for 10 days. Dilute 1 teaspoon of tincture in a glass of boiled water and use it warm for lotions.

1-2 tbsp. rub dried crushed calendula flowers with nourishing cream for the face (for example, with children). Lubricate morning and evening.

From freckles and age spots. Squeeze the juice from fresh flowers and apply to problem areas of the skin. In the juice, to enhance the effect, you can add redcurrant juice.

Calendula washcloth. Take a glass of hercules, add 2 teaspoons of calendula oil, mix thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a linen bag, tie tightly with threads. Use in the shower.

Video about calendula

This, perhaps, is all, but we are wondering, dear readers, maybe you have your own experience of using calendula for medicinal purposes? Share your knowledge in the comments, and perhaps your recipe will be the best and most effective medicine for someone!

Calendula is also called marigolds in another way, and you can find a plant in the Mediterranean, the Volga region, Ukraine, the Krasnodar Territory, Belarus and Moldova. Calendula, medicinal properties and contraindications are used both to solve internal health problems and external ones, which we will tell about in this material.

Beneficial features

The explanation of the beneficial properties of calendula is very simple - it is filled with a large number of important human body components, which include carotenoids and substances that synthesize vitamin A, sterols and alcohols that have a cholesterol structure. As well as triterpenoids and flavonoids, essential oils and coumarins with mineral elements, as well as many vitamins.

Medicinal properties of calendula have not only flowers, but also foliage with a root. The former help lower cholesterol levels, relieve inflammation, speed up wound healing, relieve spasms of the stomach and intestines, remove toxins and other unnecessary substances, produce bile and get rid of problems with urination, and they also protect against viral infections.

If we talk about the leaves of the plant, they are rich in vitamin C and salicylic acid, which is successfully used by culinary specialists.

Healing qualities extend:

1. For all kinds of skin ailments.
2. For eye diseases.
3. For stomach problems gallbladder and urinary.
4. For colds, as well as tonsillitis, stomatitis and diathesis.
5. For cardiovascular problems, headaches and insomnia.
6. For lack of vitamins and dystrophy.

Marigolds can help as aid in the treatment of various tumors.

The plant has a tonic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and antiviral action, purifying the blood and calming the nervous system, as well as effectively strengthening hair and improving appearance skin.

What diseases does it help?

Indications for the appointment of calendula in various versions will be the following diseases:

• acne, burns, wounds and cracks, fungi on the skin and warts, pigmentation and boils;
• gastrointestinal ulcer and gastritis with pathologies of the gallbladder;
• inflammation of the gynecological direction and erosion, thrush and menopausal symptoms;
• stress, neurosis and sleep problems;
• cough and sore throat;

Important: calendula alone without antibiotics and sulfa drugs, for example, a sore throat, will not be able to cure.

• high blood pressure and heart disease;
• head and tooth pain.

Despite the fact that the use of calendula is relevant in many areas of human life, the flower received a special demand as a medicinal raw material. Take advantage of unique healing qualities everyone can do plants. Most importantly, take into account medicinal properties, and contraindications of calendula.

Medicinal properties of flowers, leaves of calendula

Unlike many other medicinal plants, calendula has a bright "appearance" - juicy yellow and orange petals its inflorescences not only attract attention, but also cheer up.

The flowers of the plant really have this ability, due to the content of carotene, from which vitamin A is synthesized in the body. Only to achieve a therapeutic effect is not enough just to admire the beauty of the flower, you need internal reception products prepared on the basis of its inflorescences.

And the orange color itself has the ability to stimulate the nervous system and is used in color therapy to eliminate depression and nervous fatigue.

But the amazing healing properties of calendula do not end there. Almost all ground parts of marigolds are rich in valuable elements, the impact of which helps in the fight against various diseases.

Calendula flowers have the most pronounced healing power.

Flower baskets contain a huge amount of such substances:

• Carotenoids - organic natural pigments that neutralize the effect free radicals. Especially valuable representatives of the class are provitamins A - the precursors of vitamin A.
• Flavonoids - vegetable organic compounds, which have antispasmodic, healing, choleretic and diuretic effects.
• Triterpenoids - acid-containing organic compounds that provide anti-inflammatory action, improve conductivity nerve impulses and lowering cholesterol.
• Sterols are organic substances, derivatives of steroids that neutralize the action of cholesterol and reduce its level in the blood.
• Essential oils that suppress the vital activity of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Salicylic acid is a compound with pronounced antiseptic, analgesic, antirheumatic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Coumarins - substances whose pharmacological activity is expressed in antispasmodic, antitumor and anticoagulant action.

In addition, marigold inflorescences are rich in trace elements such as:

• potassium and magnesium, supporting the work of the heart muscle;
• iron and calcium, necessary for normal hematopoiesis;
• zinc, which strengthens the immune system;
• copper for the relief of inflammatory processes;
• molybdenum, which prevents the demineralization of tooth enamel;
• as well as selenium, which prevents the formation of atypical cells.

The stems and leaves of calendula contain phytoncides, thanks to which the plant can be used as antibacterial agent, and tannins. And marigold seeds are used to obtain fatty oils.

Calendula: beneficial properties for women

And it is especially relevant in the elimination of gynecological problems.

On the basis of calendula, medicines are prepared for the treatment of tumors and ovarian cysts, fibromas and erosions of the cervix, as well as seals and tumor processes in the chest.

In addition, the use of marigold medicines helps to reduce the tone of the uterus, normalize the course and frequency of menstruation, and improve a woman's well-being during menopause.

The bactericidal, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, soothing, and analgesic properties of calendula have been used in the treatment huge amount diseases.

Treatment with calendula is indicated for the development of most pathological processes that threaten human health:

• diseases of the digestive tract and hepatobiliary system - gastritis, ulcers, colitis, duodenitis, hepatitis, jaundice, constipation, cholecystitis, enteritis, hemorrhoids;
• skin lesions - boils, ringworm, acne, warts, wounds, bruises, gangrene and necrosis;
• nervous and cardiovascular systems - nervous excitability, dizziness, hypertension, tachycardia, arrhythmia, heart failure;
• diseases of the ENT organs caused by the activity of staphylococci and streptococci - tonsillitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis;
• dental diseases - periodontitis, stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease, bleeding gums;
• infections and inflammations of the kidneys and organs of the genitourinary sphere - nephritis, cystitis, thrush, trichomoniasis;
• respiratory tract infections - asthma, bronchitis.

Folk recipes for marigolds

In traditional medicine recipes, all ground parts of marigolds are used in the form of decoctions, tinctures, ointments, oils, juice, tea and infusions. On the basis of calendula products, compresses, rinses and douches are made, they are prepared health drinks and bath solutions.

Collection rules

AT vivo calendula blooms throughout the warm season, so the collection of inflorescences is carried out many times per season. Moreover, after each collection of baskets, the flowering of the plant becomes more intense, and the number of flowers increases.

Collect baskets of inflorescences along with a peduncle. The greatest pharmacological value are buds in the first two days after blooming. The collected plant material is dried in ventilated areas, protected from direct sunlight.

Infusion or decoction

To prepare the infusion, calendula is poured with boiling water - one or two glasses of water are taken for one tablespoon of vegetable raw materials. Then wrapped or placed in a thermos until completely cooled. As you insist, the valuable substances of calendula will pass into the water, endowing it with healing powers.

After filtering, such infusions are used orally for:

• diseases of the liver and biliary tract;
• gastritis;
• menstrual pain;
• increased pressure;
• as well as insomnia and anxiety.

For diseases of cardio-vascular system in the finished infusion, you can add the same amount of brewed lemon balm, valerian, hawthorn or wild rose. Well promoted healing effect a few tablespoons of cranberry juice.

With the flu, a few chopped cloves of garlic should be added to the calendula decoction. And when coughing, it is recommended to drink half a glass of warm broth several times a day.

An infusion prepared from two glasses of water is considered less saturated and is suitable for gargling and mouthwash, performing enemas, and soaking tampons when eliminating gynecological problems.

Ointment based on calendula extract is a powerful bactericidal and anti-inflammatory agent that can quickly heal wounds, eliminate rashes, skin irritations and destroy pathogenic microorganisms causing her defeat.

Recipe number 1. To prepare an ointment from marigolds, 100 grams of dried inflorescences are crushed and mixed with 200 g of melted pork fat. The resulting mixture is heated in a water bath until homogeneous. Then cool and spread in a glass dish. Keep cold.

Recipe number 2. Three tablespoons of dried calendula inflorescences are poured with boiling water and kept warm for about two hours. Then the infusion is filtered and mixed with one tablespoon of vaseline.

To eliminate warts, the ointment must be prepared from freshly harvested raw materials with the addition of a small amount celandine juice.

Calendula oil

Fresh calendula flowers fill a half-liter jar, not reaching top edge two centimeters. Then the contents are supplemented with vegetable oil - olive or sunflower. The oil is considered ready after 10 days, if stored in a cold place. During the infusion period, it is recommended to shake it periodically.

External use of marigold oil is appropriate for

• burns and frostbite;
• ulcerative skin lesions with varicose veins;
• dry eczema;
• the appearance of diaper rash in infants;
• wounds, cuts, bruises and bruises;
• cracked nipples in nursing mothers;
• bedsores.

Internal intake of calendula oil is indicated for diseases digestive system, including erosive formations and ulcers, as well as menopause and increased nervous excitability.

Juice, tea

Juice squeezed from fresh calendula flowers universal remedy to restore health with a runny nose, bee or wasp stings, inflammation of the rectum, angina pectoris and hypertension, gastritis, peptic ulcer stomach and intestines.

To prepare juice, freshly picked marigold inflorescences are crushed with a meat grinder or blender and squeezed through a press or gauze. For long-term storage, the juice is sterilized for about an hour in a water bath.

• For internal use, use one to two tablespoons of juice mixed with honey or milk, twice a day.
• For external use, marigold juice is diluted with boiled water: the ratio for rinsing is 1:2, the ratio for douching and enemas is 1:3.
• To make tea, marigolds are combined with the same amount lime blossom and mint or chamomile. For one tablespoon of the mixture - a glass of boiling water. Brewing time - 20 minutes in a warm place.

Such tea is effective in the presence of any indications for the use of calendula, and also as a general tonic.

Alcohol tincture

To prepare a tincture of marigolds, you will need alcohol and vegetable raw materials (preferably freshly picked). Thanks to the action of alcohol, almost all the valuable qualities of fresh calendula are preserved only in the tincture.

In the preparation of tincture, the following algorithm is observed:

• Marigold inflorescences are poured with alcohol.
• The correct ratio is one part of vegetable raw materials and five parts of alcohol with a strength of 70%. An alternative option is a tablespoon of crushed marigold flowers for one glass of vodka.
• The mixture is put in a cold place and kept for two days.
• The tincture is filtered and stored in cold and dark, as light and heat destroy the biologically active elements of calendula.

On the basis of a diluted preparation, compresses and rinses are made for skin lesions and fungal infections, pathologies of the throat and oral cavity, hair loss and dandruff.

Solving cosmetic problems is another aspect of the application miraculous power calendula. Rich chemical composition plants allows you to rejuvenate the skin of the face and improve the health of the hair.

In addition to the fact that calendula products effectively eliminate such facial skin defects as rashes and irritation, the use of the plant extract has a tonic, regenerating and whitening effect.

Therefore, calendula is indicated for all types of facial skin as a basis for products:

• tonic and tonic;
• rejuvenating;
• eliminating freckles, age spots, scars and scars;
• improving the color of the epidermis;
• relieve inflammation;
• triggering cell regeneration;
• reducing the depth and number of wrinkles;
• reducing the level of fat content;
• healing small scratches and wounds.

And in order to restore hair health, eliminate brittleness, prevent hair loss or accelerate growth, it is enough to periodically rinse them with a decoction of marigolds.

Pharmaceutical preparations of calendula

Calendula officinalis - plant, officially recognized by medicine as a basis for production pharmacological agents. The healing potential of marigolds has been embodied in a variety of preparations.

• Calendula tincture is a medicinal product for external and internal use. Represents a yellow clear liquid used to prepare a solution for rinsing, lotions, therapeutic enemas, instillation into the nose or ear, as well as internal use for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Tablets KN - a means for influencing tumor processes in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Caleflon - tablets for treatment ulcer formations in the stomach and intestines chronic forms gastritis and liver disease.
• "Rotokan" - liquid combined remedy to restore damaged mucous membranes. Indicated for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and oral cavity.
• Dr. Theiss Calendula ointment based on inflorescence extract, animal fat and corn cob oil. It is used externally to eliminate infectious and mechanical skin lesions.

Usually, pharmaceuticals calendula is available without a prescription. But this does not mean that marigold treatment has no contraindications.

Contraindications for use

So that the use of calendula-based products does not cause the development adverse reactions, it is necessary to take into account the specifics of the impact of individual components of the plant.

In spite of low level marigold toxicity, limiting the intake of funds based on them relate, first of all, to internal use.

• the presence of individual intolerance and a tendency to allergies to plants of the Compositae family (chamomile, chrysanthemum);
• therapy of heart diseases with the use of glycosides that enhance the activity of the heart muscle;
• low blood pressure or a tendency to hypotension;
• cholelithiasis - action plant extract can cause movement of stones and blockage of ducts;
• pregnancy - taking a plant extract can lead to an abortion (an exception is the elimination of toxicosis in the early stages).

In addition, the internal intake of calendula is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.

Given the small number of contraindications, calendula officinalis can be considered one of the most effective and affordable plants. Moreover, growing marigolds does not require effort, and large amounts of money are not needed to purchase preparations based on them.

And most importantly, understanding the healing properties of calendula is the key to health and a fulfilling life.

Varieties, cultivation options, the timing of sowing or planting seedlings are selected depending on the available conditions and opportunities.

You can grow decorative varieties of "marigolds" in the garden, in flower beds, in balcony boxes. Flowers for therapeutic use are planted in the lawn, in the garden after the harvest of early vegetables and as a compact crop.

Inflorescences-baskets of marigolds in the shade become smaller, lose their characteristic color. The stem stretches and falls, the leaves are "taken away" from the flowers nutrients, become brittle. Full lighting is most necessary for varieties with double and simple inflorescences.

Landing in open ground

The plant does not show special requirements to soil conditions. However, varietal qualities are fully manifested only on nutrient soils.

The presence of a sunny place, fertile, well-moistened substrates are the conditions for the successful cultivation of terry forms, tall cut marigold varieties. When planted in the shade, the inflorescences become smaller, the stem stretches. Sites with loamy, well-drained soil are best suited.

How and when to plant?

The seedling method involves sowing seeds at the end of March in boxes or pots on the windowsill. Then it will be possible to admire the bright marigold baskets at the beginning of summer.

1. The seeds of the "marigolds" are quite large, they are laid out one by one in grooves with a depth of 1.5 to 3 cm.
2. Shoots appear within 1-2 weeks.
3. In 4-6 weeks, seedlings grow, which are ready for planting in open ground.

Seedlings of tall "marigolds" are transplanted from boxes into open ground in May. Calendula can be sown directly into the soil and in a heated greenhouse. Germination occurs at a temperature of about 15°C.

"Marigolds" can be sown in open ground in the fall, then the plants will bloom early, be strong and healthier. Sowing is also possible in the spring from April to June. With the onset of warm days and the warming of the earth, many green shoots appear. Flowering begins in 8-11 weeks.

How to sow calendula:

1. The soil is dug up in the fall.
2. They add ½ bucket of humus, 20–30 g of double superphosphate and potassium chloride per 1 sq. m of area (you can replace two mineral fertilizers with one ready-made nutrient complex).
3. In spring or summer, immediately before sowing, loosen the soil, add 20–30 g of ammonium nitrate or urea per 1 sq. m. Read more:
4. Sow in rows in furrows up to 4 cm deep, water well, slightly compact the soil.
5. After 2-3 weeks, seedlings are thinned out, leaving a distance of 15 to 25 cm between them.
6. At the last thinning, the most developed plant is left in one nest, and its top is pinched for better tillering.

In Europe, cut calendula is grown mainly in seedlings. The seedless method is used to obtain medicinal raw materials - flower baskets. This method of cultivation is also possible: sowing seeds of cut varieties in July, then new inflorescences bloom until frost.