The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Calendula
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

Calendula (Calendula officinalis), more commonly known as marigold, is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. The word calendula comes from the Latin kalendae, meaning “calends,” the first day of the month in the ancient Roman calendar. The more common name, marigold, is a reference to the Virgin Mary.

HISTORY/LORE

According to legend, a Greek maiden named Caltha fell in love with Apollo, the sun god. Consumed by her love, she waited in the fields all night, hoping to catch first sight of him in the morning. Eventually she wasted away and died, and a marigold, bright yellow like the sun, appeared in the place where she had stood. In India, marigolds are sacred to the goddess Mahadevi and are worn as garlands at the festival honoring her.

USES

Healing Uses: Place a compress saturated with warm calendula tea on wounds and skin inflammations, including rashes and insect bites. You can also use calendula essential oil for this purpose, as it has a gentle, cooling effect. Taken internally, calendula cleanses the lymph system and aids in healing ulcers. This plant also relieves pain associated with menstruation. One way to enjoy the herb’s health benefits is to use it as a substitute for saffron in dishes such as yellow rice.

Magical Uses: Wreaths of marigold hung over a doorway are said to keep evil and negativity from entering a home. Sprinkle marigold petals on the floor under the bed to bring prophetic dreams. Burn marigold petals as incense for divination. Adding marigold petals to bathwater assists with career aspirations.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Calendula projects a warm, healing light and offers comfort to those who are fearful, nervous, or recovering from the shock of a trauma. It encourages understanding and compassion and tempers anger and rash behavior. In meditation, calendula brings clarity.