Botanical Profile
Marigold is one of the classic European flowering plants of traditional herbal knowledge. Its striking orange-yellow flower heads have been a prominent feature of European herbal traditions for centuries.
Calendula officinalis L. is a herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family. The flower heads are the principal plant part in traditional and pharmacognostic descriptions.
Phytochemistry
The phytochemistry of marigold is characterised in particular by triterpenes, flavonoids, carotenoids, polysaccharides and constituents of the essential oil. The intense flower colour reflects the carotenoid profile of the plant, while triterpene fractions are frequently discussed in modern phytochemical literature.
Traditional Uses
The EMA monograph on Calendula officinalis L., flos (EMA/HMPC/437450/2017) describes traditional herbal-use contexts involving the skin and mucous membranes. ESCOP likewise lists Calendulae flos as a traditional floral herbal drug.
Current Research
Modern research examines, among other subjects, triterpene profiles, carotenoids, antioxidant plant constituents and experimental skin-barrier contexts. This research is presented here as scientific background.
Sources
- Community herbal monograph on Calendula officinalis L., flos
- ESCOP Monographs – Calendulae flos
- Calendula flower / Calendulae flos
- Preethi KC, Kuttan R. Wound healing activity of flower extract of Calendula officinalis. Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology. 2009.
Notice
The information presented in this botanical profile has been compiled to the best of our knowledge and belief from botanical, phytochemical, historical and scientific sources. It is intended solely for general professional information and initial orientation.
The content does not constitute an assurance of specific properties, effects, qualities or possible uses of products or extracts. In particular, it does not constitute a guarantee, a statement of suitability, or a statement regarding marketability, permissibility or usability in specific applications or markets.
Assessment of the suitability of a raw material or extract for a particular intended use, as well as compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements, is the sole responsibility of the respective user.