Dried Calendula Flowers
The more I see pharmaceutical companies advertising their latest fad drugs on television the more research I am drawn to doing on herbal and homeopathic treatments. I am a strong believer in healing yourself from within and think that in the majority of cases, the body has what it needs to heal without any magic pill. By the same token, if I am miserable due to some acute condition, and there is something that will help me get relief faster, I will take it into consideration. When there is a natural remedy available the choice is much easier for me as I prefer to leave man-made chemical concoctions as a last resort. So I would like to offer up the information I have gleaned from my own experience, one herb at a time.
The first herb I want to talk about is calendula. The flower of the calendula plant can be used for several different applications. It boasts anti-viral, anti-genotoxic (fights against cell mutations or tumors), antibacterial, immunostimulant (boosting the immune responses) and anti-inflammatory properties. The dried flowers can be prepared in many different ways including as a tincture or a cream, though for my uses I made tea and infusions, by just boiling the flowers in some hot water. I’ve sipped the tea when I was feeling a cold coming on and the infusion I have used for my family to aid in relief of itchy skin. I’ve seen the infusion work almost instantaneously for allergic reactions and it is also highly touted for immediate use on bee stings. I personally feel it is one of the best herbs to have in your natural healing arsenal.
Calendula in My Home Apothecary
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