Where are we?: Germany
countries Visited: 9
Days on the Road: 111

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Healing Thursday


Calendula, better known as Marigold

In Italy this flower is called Fiore d'ogni mese or in English flower of the month. It is called this because it blooms so regularly there. In the past, looking at the flowers was said to strengthen eye sight, and they were used in soothing eye washes. In the 18th century it was also listed as good for, jaundice, toothache, headaches and strengthening the heart.

Plants description: is a low growing annual with hairy, slightly sticky leaves and orange flowers blooming from late spring to early fall. Many members of the botanical family look much like the marigold. It is easy to grow in sunny or part shady areas and can tolerate most soil. once established it will self seed.

Internal use is not reccomended durring pregnancy.

the petals can be used as a natural food colouring if steeped into water.

An infusion of fresh or dried petals can help the body sweat out toxins, as well as soothe the digestive track. If this mixture is allowed to cool, it makes an excellent mouthwash, especially for sore and bleeding gums, because of it's antiseptic properties. Crushing a calendula flower on an insect sting will ease the pain. It is also a potent skin healer, staunching bleeding, cleansing wounds, preventing infection and promoting tissue repair. As an infusion it is also said to help with PMS and irregular menstruation.And they are super pretty to look at :)

Go plant some Marigolds

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