Justyna Przybył, Dorota Smolińska

Współczesne spojrzenie na właściwości lecznicze nagietka lekarskiego Calendula officinalis L.
2015-11-18

Modern look at the medicinal properties of marigold Calendula officinalis L.

Marigold Calendula officinalis L. is an annual plant of the Asteraceae family. In Poland, cultivated for medicinal or ornamental purposes. In therapy usually calendula flower (Flos Calendulae) or inflorescence (Anthodium Calendulae) is used. In Europe, the healing properties of this material have been known since about the twelfth century. We know, however, that marigold was also used by the population of the Mediterranean region in ancient times. Mainly it has been used for wounds and gastrointestinal problems. Thanks to the carotenoids and triterpenes marigold exerts antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, also accelerates the healing of wounds. Internal use is beneficial to the gastrointestinal smooth muscles and mucosa. Recent studies have also shown it effectiveness in increasing the body’s immunity and prevent cancer. Externally, oil and alcoholic extracts of marigold flowers are used. Internally infusions and alcoholic extracts are recommended. In addition, calendula is currently widely used in cosmetics.

Keywords: Calendula officinalis, Asteraceae, Flos Calendulae, inflammatory conditions of the skin, gastric ulcers

© Farm Pol, 2015, 71(8): 498-504