Calendula ~ Admiration, Good Luck

 (wor calendae,  pot marigold) ~ Means “Winning Grace”  and “throughout the months.”

The name Calendula stems from the Latin kalendae, meaning first day of the month, presumably because pot marigolds are in bloom at the start of most months of the year.” ( wikipedia.com )  Historically Known for its medicinal and culinary value, the calendula was called  “Mary’s Gold” by Early Christians.  The would place calendula by the statues of the Virgin Mary to honor her.  The most sacred of flowers of ancient India, calendula were strung into garlands to adorn holy statues.

A member of the marigold family, calendula is traditionally known as an herb as well as valued for its medicinal and culinary uses. In ancient times, calendula blossoms were mixed in wine to relieve indigestion. Calendula petals were used in ointments to heal skin irritations, jaundice, sore eyes, and toothaches.  It is used to stimulate blood circulation and lower fevers (by causing sweating). It can also be used to treat diaper rash, as it promotes rapid healing. Calendula oil can be used to treat earaches, is a natural antiseptic and even helps heal hemmoroids.

The Romans used calendula mixed with vinegar to season their meat and salad dishes.A Mediterranean annual plant (Calendula officinalis) in the composite family, widely cultivated for its showy, yellow or orange, rayed flower heads that were formerly used in medicine, coloring, and flavoring of food.

Calendula is also October’s Birth flower and the International Herb Association declared calendula flower of the year for 2008. Calendula has great anti-inflammatory properties and vulnerary properties. Its uses are varied — from soothing minor skin disorders like pimples and dry chapped lips to curing chicken pox etc.