Calendula: Immune Support & Glowing Skin — August 2023

You landed on the August 2023 archive where we focused on calendula — that sunny flower that helps your immune system and fixes skin problems. If you want simple, practical ways to use calendula and what to watch for, this short guide gets straight to it.

Why calendula works and what evidence says

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that calm irritated tissue and support healing. Clinical work has shown calendula-based creams can reduce skin inflammation and help wounds heal faster. For example, trials in people receiving radiation therapy reported less severe skin reactions when calendula was used topically. That doesn’t make it a miracle cure, but the results are consistent enough to make it a useful, low-risk tool for skin care and mild inflammation.

People also use calendula to support immune health. It won’t replace vaccines or prescription medicines, but as a gentle herbal adjunct it can help your body manage inflammation and stay resilient during minor colds or seasonal stresses.

How to use calendula — practical options

Topical oil or salve: This is the easiest way to get benefits for skin. Make or buy a calendula oil and apply it to cuts, dry patches, minor burns, or chapped areas. Use twice daily until the area improves. If you make it at home, infuse dried flowers in olive oil for 4–6 weeks, then strain and add beeswax for a salve.

Calendula tea: Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried flowers in hot water for 10 minutes. Drink up to twice daily to soothe mild sore throats or to calm digestive irritation. Don’t overdo it; herbal teas should be part of a varied routine, not a single fix.

Tincture: A calendula tincture is handy when you want a concentrated extract. Follow label dosing or a practitioner’s advice. Tinctures can be good for throat rinses or diluted use in minor mouth sores.

Skin products: Many lotions and creams include calendula. Look for products with a clear percentage of calendula extract or a list of active ingredients rather than vague “herbal blends.”

Safety tips: If you’re allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family (daisies, ragweed), test a small skin area first. Stop use and see a doctor if you get a rash, swelling, or breathing trouble. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Check with a healthcare provider before using strong extracts.

Quick DIY calendula oil: Fill a jar halfway with dried calendula, cover with olive oil, seal, and place in a sunny window for 4–6 weeks. Strain and store in a dark bottle. Use within a year.

Want more from this archive month? This post captures the main practical tips and evidence-backed uses we covered in August 2023. Try calendula on a small issue first, notice how your skin reacts, and then decide if it belongs in your regular care kit.