ENGLISH NAME: Calendula (Pot Marigold)
LATIN NAME: Calendula officinalis
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Měsíček lékařský
Turkey: Aynısefa
Bulgaria: Невен (Neven)
Georgia: გულყვითელა (Gulkvitela)
COUNTRY: Turkey, Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: All regions of Georgia; widely cultivated across temperate Europe and Asia
Elevation: No strict elevation range, from lowlands to uplands
Terrain: Gardens, urban landscapes, open fields; prefers moist, fertile, well-cultivated soil
DESCRIPTION:
Calendula is a bushy, annual herb reaching 30–60 cm in height, with lance-shaped, mildly adhesive, aromatic leaves. The star attraction is its radiant yellow to orange daisy-like flowers, 2.5–7.5 cm wide, which grow in layers around a central disc and exude a pleasant fragrance. Calendula is easy to grow and often found in gardens and wildflower beds.
USABLE PARTS: Flower petals, leaves
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES:
– Flower Petals: Contain flavonoids and triterpenoids, offering anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-soothing properties. Widely used in oils, salves, and creams for skincare and wound healing.
– Leaves: Contain similar compounds, supporting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mild detoxifying effects. Infusions or extracts of the leaves are used for wellness support.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
– Rarely, contact dermatitis may occur, especially with sensitive skin. Perform a patch test before widespread topical use.
COMBINING WITH OTHER MEDICINES:
– Commonly combined with chamomile for antibacterial, spasmolytic, and anti-inflammatory benefits (especially for skin and bile duct support).
PREPARATION:
– Gently rinse petals and leaves under cool water; pat dry
– Air-dry in a shaded, ventilated area until crisp; store in airtight containers away from light and moisture
– Petals: Use dried in infusions, oils, salves, or topical creams
– Leaves: Prepare infusions or mild detoxifying teas; use externally for skin applications
HARVEST TIME:
– Late spring to early summer
HARVEST METHOD:
– Harvest in early morning after dew dries but before heat intensifies
– Snip flowers at the base of the stem using clean scissors or shears
– Select fully open, vibrant flowers; avoid wilted or over-mature blooms
CONSERVATION (STORAGE):
– Dry flowers and leaves in a single layer in the shade, turning occasionally for even drying
– Once dry, remove petals from stems, discard damaged material
– Store dried petals (and leaves) in airtight glass jars, labeled with harvest date, in a cool, dark place