The Golden Healer, Calendula Extract

Posted on by Sol14 Content Author
Calendula Officinalis (Pot Marigold) Flower Extract in skincare

Why do we use Calendula Officinalis (Pot Marigold) Flower Extract?

With its sunny, golden petals, the Calendula Officinalis flower, also known as Pot Marigold, is more than just a beautiful garden plant. For centuries, it has been a cornerstone of traditional herbal medicine around the world, prized for its remarkable ability to heal and soothe the skin. As a premier soother in our ingredient glossary, it’s a perfect choice for sensitive skin.

What is Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract?

Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract is a concentrated preparation derived from the petals of the pot marigold. These petals are rich in a wide array of beneficial compounds that work together to calm and support the skin.

The primary active constituents include:

  • Triterpenoids (like Faradiol): These are the most significant anti-inflammatory compounds in calendula.
  • Flavonoids (like Quercetin): These provide potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Carotenoids: The pigments that give the petals their vibrant orange and yellow color, which the body can convert to Vitamin A. They also have antioxidant properties.

These molecules are responsible for the extract’s signature healing and soothing effects.

Source:

The Good: 3 Key Benefits of Calendula Extract in Creams

When formulated into a cosmetic cream, Calendula Extract is a master at calming, healing, and protecting the skin.

1. It is an Exceptional Anti-Inflammatory and Soothing Agent

This is Calendula’s most celebrated benefit. Its potent triterpenoids and flavonoids are highly effective at calming signs of inflammation. This makes it a go-to ingredient for:

  • Soothing Redness and Irritation: It provides gentle relief for skin that is stressed, reactive, or chapped.
  • Comforting Sensitive Skin: Its gentle nature makes it ideal for daily use on skin prone to sensitivity or conditions like eczema.
  • Calming Skin Post-Procedure: It is often used to soothe skin after minor cosmetic procedures or sun exposure.

2. It Promotes Skin Healing and Repair

Calendula has been scientifically shown to support the skin’s natural healing process. It is thought to increase blood flow and oxygen to the skin, and to promote the growth of new tissue. This makes it highly effective for:

  • Helping to heal minor cuts, burns, and insect bites.
  • Soothing and improving the condition of diaper rash.
  • Supporting the recovery of a compromised skin barrier.

3. It Provides Potent Antioxidant Protection

The flavonoids and carotenoids in Calendula are powerful antioxidants. They help to neutralize damaging free radicals generated by UV rays and pollution. This protective action helps to defend the skin from environmental stressors that can lead to premature aging.

Source:

  • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Calendula – This evidence-based resource from a leading medical center discusses the clinical use of Calendula for soothing inflammation and promoting wound healing.

The Bad: Are There Any Considerations?

Calendula is overwhelmingly safe and well-tolerated, but as with many potent botanicals from its family, there is one key consideration.

  • Potential for Allergic Reaction: Calendula is part of the Asteraceae / Compositae plant family. This is the same family that includes ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums, and it’s close cousin, chamomile. Individuals with a known allergy to these plants, particularly ragweed, have a higher chance of experiencing an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis) to Calendula. While this is not common, it is the most important consideration for this ingredient.

The Verdict

Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract is a gentle giant in the world of skincare. It is a time-tested, scientifically-backed ingredient that provides powerful soothing, healing, and protective benefits. It’s an exceptional choice for anyone with sensitive, irritated, or stressed skin. When you see it in our products, you can be confident it’s there to bring a golden touch of comfort and healing to your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Calendula

What is Calendula extract good for?

Calendula extract is primarily good for soothing and healing the skin. It is exceptionally effective at calming redness, soothing irritation, and supporting the skin’s natural repair process, making it ideal for sensitive, chapped, or stressed skin.

Is Calendula good for sensitive skin and eczema?

Yes, Calendula is one of the most popular and effective ingredients for sensitive and eczema-prone skin. Its powerful anti-inflammatory properties help to calm the irritation and discomfort associated with these conditions, and it is very gentle.

Can I be allergic to Calendula?

While uncommon, it is possible. Calendula is part of the Asteraceae plant family, which also includes ragweed and daisies. If you have a known allergy to ragweed or related plants, you have a higher chance of being sensitive to Calendula.

Find Calendula Extract in Our Products

(will be updated soon)


Other sources used for this article: