Have you heard about the latest herb that is becoming wildly popular in the cosmetic industry? Scoot over, aloe vera. What’s up, calendula? It is one of the most versatile herbs in the plant kingdom and it is known as the “flower of the sun” because of its outstanding ability to heal the skin. The leaves and flowers of the plant contain many beneficial properties that include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-viral and anti-bacterial activities.
Wait a minute! What is Calendula exactly?
Calendula officinalis, more commonly known as pot marigold, is an herbaceous plant that is commonly used in herbal and skincare products. The radiant deep yellow and orange perennial flowers originally come from the Mediterranean, however these days it is grown domestically throughout the world. Calendula extract is derived from the petals, leaves and seeds of the plant. From many centuries ago, the Ayurvedic and Chinese have been making a traditional remedy from the herb. The flowers of the calendula plant are infused to create an oil, which can then be applied topically, either by itself or it can be used to make creams, salves and ointments.
7 Reasons Why Calendula is Essential for Your Skin
The vibrant, colorful and sunshiny flowers are more than just pretty. They hold a lot of beneficial properties that can soothe, hydrate, tighten and protect the skin. The skin rejuvenation ability of calendula oil is also known to improve the general appearance of the skin. According to Herbal Dynamix Beauty and Derm Collective the following reasons are:
1. It is anti-aging
Studies revealed that calendula supports the collagen synthesis of the skin. This is a structural protein of the skin that keeps it firm and looking young. Calendula also promotes skin regeneration by stimulating the proteins necessary in the skin’s healing process. It contains Vitamin A which prevents premature aging and Vitamin E that softens the skin. Furthermore, the linolenic acid also found in calendula oil is believed to reduce the damage to the skin caused by excessive exposure to the sun.
2. It has amazing healing qualities and is anti-inflammatory
Applying calendula oil directly to a wound significantly increases the healing process. The reason for this is because it speeds up blood flow to the damaged area, that then stimulates the skin tissue to produce more collagen which boosts cell renewal. This process then calms the skin down and reduces the inflammation. For this reason, it is used treat multiple conditions, such as sunburn, pimples, eczema, stretch marks, dark spots and acne scars.
3. It is very moisturizing
The fatty acid, called linoleic acid, in calendula oil feeds your skin from the outside. As mentioned on Ipsy, it urges your skin cells to absorb nutrients and retain water for longer. It will result in nourished, flexible and smoother skin.
4. It prevents breakouts and is anti-bacterial
If you have acne prone skin, you can start by saying hello to your new best friend, calendula. The anti-microbial abilities of the extract create a potent astringent that fights off all the acne causing bacteria. Thankfully, calendula is gentle enough that it can be used in conjunction with other acne fighting products, such as benzoyl peroxide for example. You don’t have to be concerned about the influence that it will have on your skincare routine.
5. It fights redness & soothes irritated skin
Calendula is very soothing to your skin and can reduce redness caused by dermatitis or any other form of inflammation. Holistic healers have been suggesting the use of calendula to cure skin irritation and flare ups for quite some time. The soothing ability of the extract will let you breathe a sigh of relief.
6. It boosts your sun protection factor
Calendula itself can’t act as an SPF for your skin, however if you use it in conjunction with your own SPF products it will make the SPF in your products work even harder. The SPF boost is all due to its skin cell renewing properties.
7. It is illuminating and tone-evening
It brightens your skin and promotes a glowing complexion. The carotenoids, that are responsible for the beautiful yellow pigment of the calendula flower, and is normally present on our skin, enhances and evens out blotchy and uneven skin tones.
Why not try our wonderful Calendula Ointment product? Now available at a special price.
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Sources
Aberman, M. (2020, March 16). Calendula Benefits for Skin. Retrieved from Ipsy
Barry, C. (2019, September 25). Calendula Benefits. Retrieved from Derm Collective
Bodyceuticals. (2020). Why Choose ASP. Retrieved from Calendula Skincare
Hussein, J. (2018, June 12). Calendula Skincare Benefits. Retrieved from Skincare
