In its natural state, the parent plant (Calendula officinalis) is found in South-Central Europe, the Balkan Peninsula, Egypt and Syria. In Poland, marigold is often grown as an ornamental plant (for example on balconies) or in gardens, from where it sometimes becomes wild.
https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagietek
alendula is an annual plant with a straight, herbaceous stem, about 50 cm high.
The only herbal raw material is its yellow, ligular flowers.
Chemistry
Marigold flowers contain triterpenic compounds (including arnidiol and faradiol) and flavonoids (e.g. isoramnetin derivatives) as well as saponins and small amounts of essential oil, resinous, bitterness and phenolic substances.
Mode of action
After oral administration of the calendula extract, there is a slight stimulation of the secretory functions of the skin and liver, as well as the reduction of the smooth muscle tone of the stomach, bile ducts and intestines. It is also anti-inflammatory in these organs.
Applied externally, it has anti-inflammatory and slightly bactericidal properties, especially against pyogenic microorganisms. It also accelerates the wound granulation process.
Application
Externally, calendula is used for inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth and throat (in the form of a rinse), and as a component of ointments for difficult to heal wounds and varicose leg ulcers, as well as burns of the 1st and 2nd degree.
It is also used to accelerate the healing of postoperative wounds.
Internally, infusions of calendula flowers are used in gastroenteritis, inflammation of the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, especially when they are accompanied by spasms.
Calendula is also used as an ingredient in medications and eye drops. In this form, it is used to reduce itching, burning and nourish tired eyes.
Use in cosmetics
Calendula flower preparations are widely used in cosmetics. There are many products on the market in the form of ointments, creams or tonics. They perfectly regenerate the skin – they are used as an effective remedy in the treatment of blackheads, acne, flaking and stretch marks. They smooth out roughness of the skin, which they additionally moisturize and soften. They also have a smoothing and protective effect thanks to their antioxidant properties. Cosmetics with calendula are recommended especially for damaged, dry and sensitive skin.
AUTOR: Dr n. farm. Andrzej Tarasiuk
Bibliografia: https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagietek