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Calendula
is an annual or perennial herbaceous plant and native to the area from Macaronesiaeast through the Mediterranean region and to Iran , it grows around 60cm tall and has branched leafy stems. It has
large bright yellow/orange single or double daisy flowers pot marigolds are in bloom at the start of most months of the year
CULTIVATION
Calendula
grows very easily from seed sown from autumn to spring. The plant requires a
well-drained position in full sun and it is quite drought tolerant.
Fertilise with a complete fertilizer. Spent flowers should be dead-headed to
promote further blooming.
Health Benefits and uses of Calendula
- very attractive ornamental plant
- The ointment of this herb is used to cure a range of skin problems such as eczema, itching, acne
- petals are used as a
garnish and sparingly in salads
- petals are a source of yellow-orange
dye used in the food industry
- antiseptic and anti-inflammatory
- controls bleeding and soothes irritated tissue
- diaper rash and cradle cap in infants
- Organic extracts have been tentatively shown to inhibit HIV-1
- used in homeopathic medicine(in a gel form)
Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Calendula
- Side effects are rare with the use of calendula
- may experience a skin rash
with topical use and should be tested to see if allergic
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