Calendula Officinalis

Calendula (pot marigold) is a traditional wound-healing herb used topically for skin conditions. C-GRADE for dermatitis risk reduction in radiation therapy (3 studies, 756 participants - small improvement), skin dryness improvement, and itching (mixed effect). D-GRADE for abdominal pain in vulvovaginal candidiasis (no effect). Primary use is topical for wound healing, radiation-induced dermatitis, diaper rash, and minor skin conditions. Contains triterpenoids and flavonoids with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. May increase blood flow and oxygen to wounds. Generally safe topically; not recommended for oral use during pregnancy.

Quick Answer

What it is

Calendula (pot marigold) is a traditional wound-healing herb used topically for skin conditions. C-GRADE for dermatitis risk reduction in radiation therapy (3 studies, 756 participants - small improvement), skin dryness improvement, and itching (mixed effect).

Key findings

  • Grade C: Dermatitis Risk (Radiation Therapy Side-Effects)
  • Grade C: Itching (Radiation Therapy Side-Effects)
  • Grade C: Skin Dryness (Skin Health)

Safety

  • C-GRADE for dermatitis risk reduction in radiation therapy (3 studies, 756 participants - small improvement), skin dryness improvement, and itching (mixed effect).
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Calendula Officinalis

Quick Facts: Calendula Officinalis

  • Best Evidence:Grade C
  • Conditions Studied:11
  • Research Outcomes:24
  • Key Effect:Radiation Therapy Side-Effects
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B0
C8
D3
11 conditions Β· 24 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

Grade:
Effect:
Size:
Sort:
|
C
Dermatitis Risk
Small Improvement
small↓Improves
C
Itching
Mixed effect
1 study
?
Mucositis Symptoms
↑Worsens
?
Pain
1 study
↑Worsens
C
Dermatitis Risk
Small Improvement
small↓Improves
?
Itching
1 study
↑Improves
?
Pain
1 study
↑Worsens
C
Dermatitis Risk
Small Improvement
small↓Improves
C
Itching
Mixed effect
1 study
?
Pain
1 study
↑Worsens
C
Skin Dryness
Small Improvement
1 study
small↑Improves
?
Skin Elasticity
1 study
↑Improves
?
Skin Thickness
↑Improves
C
Bacterial Vaginosis Symptoms
Moderate Improvement
moderate↓Improves
C
Mucositis Symptoms
Small Improvement
small↓Improves
D
Abdominal Pain
No effect
1 study
none
D
Dysuria
No effect
1 study
none
?
Itching
1 study
↑Improves
?
Vaginal Infection Risk
↑Worsens
?
Vaginal Irritation
1 study
↑Improves
D
Dental Health Metrics
No effect
none
?
Diabetic Foot Ulcers Symptoms
↑Worsens
?
Mucositis Symptoms
↑Worsens
?
Wound Healing
↑Improves

Related Supplements

Probiotics

4 shared conditions Β· 215 outcomes

Probiotics are microorganisms that can have a positive effect on health.

Zinc

2 shared conditions Β· 148 outcomes

Zinc is an essential mineral that is critical for the function of hundreds of enzymes. Consequently, it plays many roles, including in antioxidant enzymes, brain function, and the immune system. Zinc is most commonly taken to reduce the duration of respiratory infections and the common cold.

Yarrow

2 shared conditions Β· 19 outcomes

The yarrow plant (Achillea millefolium) is a member of the Asteraceae family that has been used in cultural and traditional treatment of wounds, menstrual concerns, and gastrointestinal discomfort worldwide.

Vitamin D

2 shared conditions Β· 308 outcomes

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.

Saffron

2 shared conditions Β· 390 outcomes

Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.

Resveratrol

2 shared conditions Β· 318 outcomes

Resveratrol is a bioactive molecule found in plant sources such as grapes, peanuts, blueberries, and, famously, red wine. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit cardiovascular function, glycemic control, and lipid metabolism. Although it’s promoted for lifespan extension, there’s no evidence for this in humans and limited evidence in animals.

Pycnogenol

2 shared conditions Β· 34 outcomes

Pycnogenol is a patented standardized extract from French maritime pine bark, rich in procyanidins and other polyphenols. B-grade evidence for chronic venous insufficiency symptoms, osteoarthritis symptoms, and blood glucose improvement. Has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasoactive properties. Note: 'Pycnogenol' is a trademarked product - other pine bark extracts (oligopin, flavangenol) may differ. Evidence quality is moderate with relatively small studies. Expensive compared to similar polyphenol sources.

Neem

2 shared conditions Β· 3 outcomes

Neem is a tree native to India with leaves, bark, and seeds used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine. Contains azadirachtin, nimbin, and other limonoids with demonstrated antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Most evidence is for dental/oral health applications (mouthwash, toothpaste) - some trials support gingivitis reduction. Also used for skin conditions, diabetes, and as insecticide. Human clinical evidence is limited for most applications. CAUTION: Neem oil can be toxic if ingested; infants have died from neem oil poisoning.