What is Calendula and Why is it Used as a Tea?
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a flowering plant native to Asia and Southern Europe, widely cultivated today for its beautiful orange and yellow blossoms. Known colloquially as pot marigold, the petals have been utilized for their medicinal properties for centuries in traditional and herbal medicine. Beyond its ornamental value, calendula contains beneficial compounds, including triterpenes, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which are responsible for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is these properties that drive its use in various herbal preparations, including topical ointments and, of course, teas. The resulting tea is described as having a mild, slightly bitter taste and is brewed by steeping the dried petals in hot water.
Potential Health Benefits of Drinking Calendula Tea
Drinking calendula tea is associated with a range of potential health benefits, though many of these claims are based on anecdotal evidence or require further human research.
- Support for Oral Health: Studies have shown that calendula's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties may be beneficial for oral health. A mouthwash containing calendula was found to reduce gum inflammation in a clinical study, and gargling the tea may help soothe a sore throat.
- Digestive and Immune Support: As an internal remedy, calendula tea is thought to stimulate digestion and promote bile production, which can aid in soothing digestive issues like stomach cramps and acid reflux. The tea's rich antioxidant content can also help protect the body against oxidative stress, thereby supporting overall immune function.
- Antifungal Properties: Test-tube studies indicate that calendula extract can be effective against various strains of Candida yeast, a common fungus that can cause oral and other infections. While applying calendula topically for fungal issues is more common, the internal effects of drinking the tea are still under investigation.
- Skin Health: While topical application is the most common use for skin issues, the antioxidant properties of calendula are believed to be beneficial internally as well. By combating oxidative stress from within, calendula may help improve skin hydration and elasticity. Some individuals also use calendula tea as a cooling compress applied directly to the skin to calm irritations.
Potential Risks and Who Should Avoid Calendula
Despite its benefits, calendula tea is not suitable for everyone, and certain precautions should be taken.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Calendula should be avoided during pregnancy due to concerns that it could induce menstruation and increase the risk of miscarriage. There is insufficient reliable information on its safety during breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid it to err on the side of caution.
Allergies: People with a known allergy to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, such as ragweed, chrysanthemums, or daisies, are more likely to have an allergic reaction to calendula. Symptoms could include contact dermatitis or other allergic responses.
Drug Interactions: Calendula may cause sleepiness and interact with certain medications. Individuals taking sedatives (CNS depressants) should be cautious and consult a healthcare provider, as calendula may enhance their effects and cause excessive drowsiness. It may also interfere with blood pressure medications and blood thinners.
Side Effects: While generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation, some individuals may experience mild side effects like digestive upset. Discontinue use if any adverse effects occur.
How to Prepare Calendula Tea
Making calendula tea is a straightforward process, typically using dried flower petals. For best results, use organically grown or responsibly sourced petals. Here is a simple recipe:
- Bring one and a half cups of fresh water to a boil.
- Add two tablespoons of dried calendula flowers to the water. If using fresh blossoms, you can use a handful instead.
- Remove the pot from the heat and allow the petals to steep for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the flowers. A tea infuser can also be used during the steeping process.
- Serve hot. Honey, lemon, or other herbs can be added to enhance the flavor.
Calendula Tea vs. Topical Applications: A Comparison
Calendula can be used both internally as a tea and externally as a topical application. The following table compares the typical uses and effectiveness of both methods.
| Feature | Calendula Tea (Internal) | Topical Application (Creams, Ointments, Compresses) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Uses | Digestive support, immune boosting, oral health rinse, anti-inflammatory support. | Wound healing (cuts, scrapes), soothing burns, treating rashes (diaper rash), and skin inflammations. |
| Mechanism | Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds are absorbed via the digestive system to exert systemic effects. | Direct contact delivers potent compounds to the affected skin area for localized healing and soothing. |
| Supporting Evidence | Mainly traditional use and some test-tube/animal studies, with limited human studies on specific internal benefits. | Substantial test-tube and some human studies demonstrating effectiveness for wound and ulcer healing. |
| Primary Benefit | Offers systemic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant support. | Accelerates skin healing, reduces redness, and provides localized relief. |
| Safety Considerations | Interactions with sedatives/blood thinners; avoid during pregnancy/breastfeeding; potential for allergies. | Allergic reactions can occur, especially in those sensitive to related plants. Perform a patch test. |
Conclusion: Can You Drink Calendula as Tea?
Yes, you can drink calendula as tea, and many people do so to support their digestive system and benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties. The tea, made from the vibrant petals of the pot marigold, is rich in antioxidants and has a long history in herbal medicine. However, it is crucial to approach its consumption with care, being mindful of its potential risks, especially for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to related plants, or taking certain medications. As with any herbal remedy, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended before making it a regular part of your wellness routine. By understanding both the promising benefits and necessary precautions, you can determine if calendula tea is the right addition to your herbal repertoire.
