Hi to everyone, I hope you are all well and looking forward to reading about another one of my favourite flower and plant oils/extract.

Today I would like to introduce you to Calendula officinalis - Pot marigold is an aromatic herbaceous plant and belongs to the genus Calendula (Asteraceae), native to the Mediterranean countries. Marigold has been long used traditionally as a skin remedy for many skin complaints, including inflamed skin, irritated skin, excessive redness, acne and fungal disturbances. There is a wealth of information that has been gathered and scientifically analysed regarding this plant. According to the EU cosmetic database, Coslng, the extracts of this plant have many properties when it comes to skincare including; increases skin barrier function, emollient, maintains natural pigmentation of the skin and skin conditioning. The flower of the plant are used in kitchen gardens, both for its uses as a medicinal herb and for the beautiful flowers, which can be eaten in salads and are a beautiful orange and yellow bloom that radiates warmth and vitality. 

Calendula officinalis - Pot Marigold as we know it
Effects of Calendula infused oil/extract and its applications:

Cell regeneration and healing:

Calendula oil and or extract is a flower that has shown strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic and anti-bactericidal properties. These actions help to repair damaged skin and help the skin to heal. It is very useful in topical application for sore, inflamed, irritated, broken and chapped skin. 

 Dermatitis:
In a clinical trial calendula ointment was found to be more effective in preventing acute dermatitis after cancer irradiation when compared with a conventional treatment.

Inflamed, dry, damaged and sensitive skin:
Ideal for such skin complaints due to the anti-inflammatory activities of the macerated oil and extract.

Calendula infused oil and also the super-critical extract are a favourite ingredient that I use in formulations for balms, facial serums.  It is also very versatile as it is suitable for all skin types, especially inflamed, sore, irritated, broken and sensitive skin.

I am happy to have picked this very nourishing, regenerating oil and or extract as part of the formulation plan and I hope you will love it too and enjoy it's many wonderful benefits.

Thank you and please share if you like.

Lisa
Naturally Foxy Skincare

References:

European Medicines Agency Overview of Comments Recieved on Community Herbal Monograph on Calendula officinalis L., Flos. [(accessed on 26 July 2021)]. Available online: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-monograph/final-european-union-herbal-monograph-calendula-officinalis-l-flos-revision-1_en.pdf

Raquel Mur, Elisa Langa, M.Rosa Pino-Otin, Jose S.Urieta, Ana.M Mainar. (2021).  Concentration of Antioxidant Compounds from Calendula officinalis through Sustainable Supercritical Technologies, and Computational Study of Their Permeability in Skin for Cosmetic Use