The calendula plant is in the same family as marigolds. It's been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits, applied topically or taken orally. Calendula is one of the strongest
antiviral herbs you can find. Health benefits of calendula include the ability to calm muscle spasms, heal ulcers, improve oral health and more.
Health Benefits of Calendula
1. Provides Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Health benefits of calendula include powerful anti-inflammatory effects. The flavonoids in calendula help protect the cells from damaged caused by free radicals. Calendula also contains linoleic acid, a potent anti-inflammatory that can help treat diaper rash, ulcers and sore throats. It can also be used as a natural
ear infection treatment.
2. Calms Muscle Spasms
Health benefits of calendula include the ability to calm and prevent muscle spasms. Researchers at Aga Khan University Medical College in Pakistan found that calendula flower extract was able to relax spontaneous muscle contractions. The study suggests that health benefits of calendula also include the ability to treat
muscle cramps and
constipation. (
1)
3. Heals Ulcers, Wounds and Hemorrhoids
Health benefits of calendula include the ability to heal ulcers, wounds and hemorrhoids. Research has shown that calendula-based gels and topical ointments can help speed recovery rate and healing in an
ulcer and other wounds. Calendula can also be used to fight
hemorrhoids by increasing blood flow and oxygen to wounds, which helps damaged tissue heal at a quicker rate. (
2)
4. Aids Menstruation
Studies have shown that calendula tea can benefit women by easing some of the painful side effects of menstruation. Health benefits of calendula include the ability to relax sore muscles, provide pain relief from PMS camps and reduce hot flashes.
5. Provides Antimicrobial and Antiviral Effects
Health benefits of calendula include the ability to provide the body with antimicrobial and antiviral properties. The calendula plant contains oils that have been shown to help fight
candida symptoms, as well as antibiotic resistant strains of bacteria.
6. Improves Oral Health
Calendula can help improve oral health. Thanks to its powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, health benefits of calendula include the ability to reduce gum inflammation while fighting against plaque, gingivitis and
cavities. Calendula works as an astringent to help fight harmful bacteria in the mouth and create a healthy environment for the teeth, gums and tongue.
7. Discourages Cancer
Research has shown that the benefits of calendula include the ability to fight cancer. According to animal studies, calendula is able to fight carcinogenic activity in tumors. It also helps to activate lymphocytes, which fight infection and harmful invaders in the body. Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce irritation caused by cancer treatments, like radiation and chemotherapy. According to research published in the
Journal of Clinical Oncology, calendula is more effective than other topical agents at reducing and preventing dermatitis caused by radiation. (
3)
