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YOURWELLNESSSPA © GETTY IMAGES HERBAL HEALTH 62 DAYSPA | FEBRUARY 2015 Calendula's Flower Power By Andrea Renskoff Calendula (calendula offi cinalis)—the so-called "pot marigold" recognizable by its vivid yellow- orange petals—has a history of medicinal uses tracing back to the 12th century. Ingested, it's used homeo- pathically; topically, it's a remedy for skin conditions and a wound treatment. In fact, this botanical is such a popular ingredient in skin care, it's likely contained in several products you use in your spa. Of southern European Mediterranean origin but also grown in Asia, calendula was once used to adorn Hindu deities; the Greeks and Romans strung the pet- als into garlands and crowns. Mystical tradition dic- tated that calendula could imbue its users with the gift of clairvoyance, and that placing a fl ower under your pillow at night could produce prophetic dreams. Some folklore claimed that merely staring at the fl ow- ers could improve eyesight! As is the case with most herbal remedies, Western scientifi c evidence on the benefi ts of calendula lags far behind its practical and worldwide use. But what research there is looks positive. A 2008 study deemed it the most promising plant extract to foster wound healing—more promising that gotu kola, echinacea, St. John's wort, comfrey and even aloe. A 2004 study found it helped prevent the skin irritation common- ly caused by radiation therapy administered to treat breast cancer. Calendula has also commonly been used in folk medicine to address digestive disorders, stomach upset, ulcers and menstruation issues. PETALS PACK A PUNCH Calendula is considered an anti-infl ammatory, which is why it's so useful in wound healing. It's well known that infl ammation tends to prevent regeneration The word "calendula" means "fi rst day of the month" in Latin, so named because it's in bloom most months of the year.