Calendula
Calendula officinalis
T Traditional useCalendula flower is traditionally used for minor skin inflammation such as sunburn, as an aid to heal minor wounds and as a mouth gargle.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
The EMA classes calendula (Calendula officinalis) flower as a traditional herbal medicine for minor skin inflammation, as an aid in healing minor wounds and for mouth and throat inflammation. It is used only on the skin and as a gargle, not swallowed.
Updated: October 15, 2026
✓ This herb record is backed by official European Medicines Agency (EMA HMPC) herbal monographs.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for minor skin inflammation such as sunburn and as an aid in healing minor wounds. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used as a gargle for minor inflammation of the mouth or throat. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
⚠ External use only
Minimum age: 6 years
- For external use and gargling only; do not swallow.
- Skin use not recommended under 6; gargling not recommended under 12.
- Do not use if you are allergic to the daisy family (Asteraceae).
- See a doctor if the skin shows signs of infection.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Skin sensitisation (allergy) reported (frequency unknown)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Calendula flowers are used in the same warm infusion for both wound compresses and throat gargles. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Is calendula good for wounds?
The EMA accepts calendula as a traditional remedy for minor skin inflammation and as an aid in healing minor wounds.
Can I drink calendula tea?
The EMA assessment covers only skin use and gargling, not drinking it.
How do I make a calendula compress?
Infuse 1–2 g of dried flowers in 150 ml of water, soak a cloth while warm and apply to the area.
Can I use calendula on a baby's nappy rash?
The EMA does not recommend skin use under 6. Ask a paediatrician first.
Sources
Cite This Page
Calendula (Calendula officinalis). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/calendula/
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