GET TO KNOW OUR FAVOURITE INGREDIENTS #2 - Calendula If you ever experience dry, red, itchy or irritated skin, then this week's ingredient is for you! Calendula is not just a pretty little flower and has much more to offer than just its good looks! These radiant bright yellow/orange flowers come from the daisy family and are native to southwestern Asia, western Europe, Macaronesia and the Mediterranean. The name Calendula originiates from the Latin term calendae meaning "little calendar" or "little clock", which suits the plant's tendency to blossom once a month with the calendar. The healing properties of Calendula have been recognized for many years, with history telling us that ancient cultures readily used the plant to treat various ailments, both externally and internally. In fact, some of the earliest medical writings make reference to Calendula in a variety of treatments. Given this rich history, what benefits can you expect from applying Calendula topically to the skin?
- Wound healing - The application of Calendula to wounds can assist to stop bleeding and thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, it can help prevent infection and speed up the healing process.
- Anti-ageing - The restorative properties of Calendula make it an excellent application to help rehydrate dry and dull skin to encourage a healthy glow. Calendula is also fantastic for protecting the skin and is safe enough to be used in delicate areas, making it an ideal treatment for crow's feet.
- Skin sensitivities & rashes - Most of the healing benefits of Calendula can be attributed to its high level of Carotenoids (these provide antioxidant activity that increases the immune function of the skin). These Carotenoids make Calendula a fantastic treatment for sensitive skin and skin prone to rashes and conditions such as Eczema, Dermatitis and Psoriasis.
