🌼 Calendula: My Favorite Herb for Skin Healing (and So Much More)

If I could only choose one herb to keep in my apothecary forever (a cruel and unnecessary thought, I know), it would be Calendula officinalis — the sunny little flower that looks like sunshine and heals like magic.

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is one of the most beloved herbs in the world of skincare — and for good reason. It’s gentle, effective, and multitasks like a champion. Whether you're battling breakouts, calming irritation, or tending to a wound, calendula has your back... and your face... and, honestly, every inch of your skin.

Let me tell you why this cheerful flower is my #1 go-to for all things skin and beyond.

🌿 Calendula for Skin: The Healer in a Petal

When I say calendula is a skin healer, I mean it. This plant has been used for centuries to treat:

• Scrapes and cuts

• Burns and sunburns

• Diaper rash

• Eczema and dermatitis

• Acne and blemishes

• Post-tattoo or surgical healing

• Dry, cracked skin

  
  

What makes calendula so magical?

✨ Anti-inflammatory + Antimicrobial

Calendula contains powerful plant compounds — flavonoids, triterpenoids, and essential oils — that help reduce inflammation and prevent infection. That means it doesn't just soothe the skin; it helps actively repair it.

✨ Gentle on Sensitive Skin

Calendula is one of the few herbs that’s safe enough for babies and people with sensitive skin — it’s basically the herbal equivalent of a cozy blanket and some chamomile tea.

✨ Speeds Wound Healing

Several studies have shown calendula's ability to stimulate tissue regeneration and boost collagen production, helping wounds close faster and skin rebuild stronger. I’ve seen it work wonders in homemade salves, infused oils, and even simple compresses.

🌼 Internal Use: Calendula Works From the Inside Out

Yes, calendula is a skincare superstar — but it doesn’t stop at the surface.

When used internally (as a tea or tincture), Calendula officinalis supports:

• Lymphatic drainage (hello, natural detox)

• Digestive health, especially for inflamed or sluggish systems

• Immune support, thanks to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties

• Menstrual comfort, especially for stagnation or inflammation in the pelvic region

  
  

I often sip calendula tea when I’m feeling sluggish or want to gently support my body’s natural detox pathways. It’s earthy, slightly bitter, and pairs beautifully with lemon balm or mint.

Important: If you’re using calendula internally, make sure it’s high-quality and safe for consumption. And as always — check with your healthcare provider if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

🌸 How I Use Calendula (Every Day, Basically)

• Infused oil for skin, minor wounds, and as a base for salves

• Salves & balms for dry skin, cracked heels, eczema, etc.

• Facial steams with dried calendula petals

• Tea for lymph support and digestive healing

• Tincture in small doses for skin + immune support

• Bath soaks — a handful of petals in a muslin bag is pure magic

  
  

💛 Final Thoughts

Calendula isn’t just my favorite herb — it’s one of the most approachable, effective, and gentle healing plants you can invite into your wellness world. Whether you're tending to your skin, supporting your immune system, or simply wanting to work with an herb that feels like a hug — calendula is it.

I’ll always keep a jar of dried calendula in my kitchen, a bottle of infused oil in my bathroom, and a tea blend with calendula in my pantry. It’s the kind of plant that makes you feel taken care of — and who doesn’t need more of that?

~Lydia ❤️