The Beauty Bar: Calendula

By Wendy McMillan

Calendula officinalis, also known as marigold, is one of nature’s most potent herbs for healing and nourishing your skin. Calendula contains a powerful range of phytonutrients—plant-based compounds that protect the skin against cell damage from free radicals—explains Jeanette Jacknin, MD, a holistic dermatologist and author of Smart Medicine for Your Skin (Penguin Putnam, 2001). Research also shows calendula has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which inhibit bacteria and assist in wound healing. You’ll find calendula in salves, creams, and ointments used for a host of conditions, including sunburn, rashes, bruises, wounds, and insect bites. Taken internally, calendula’s anti-inflammatory properties help relieve digestive and menstrual cramps.

We like: Jurlique’s Calendula Cream ($32, 1.4 oz; jurlique.com), which combines concentrated calendula and witch hazel to smooth dry skin sans greasiness. Hyland’s Calendula Spray ($6.77, 4 oz; mothernature.com) uses extract of calendula flowers with a vegetable-glycerin and water base to soothe abrasions and skin irritations.
Supplement with: Certified-organic Mountain Rose Herbs Calendula Extract ($8.50, 1 oz; mountainroseherbs.com).
—Wendy McMillan