Calendula (*Calendula officinalis*), or marigold, has a rich history in traditional and herbal medicine. Its vibrant flowers are packed with beneficial compounds that support skin health, making it a popular choice for both human and pet care. Here, we’ll explore calendula’s history, its uses for common skin conditions in people and dogs, including allergic conjunctivitis, and how to safely incorporate calendula tea soaks and balms into your routine.
A Brief History of Calendula
Calendula has been used medicinally for centuries, originally recognised in ancient Egypt, Greece, and India for its ability to soothe and support the skin. Known as “marigold,” calendula blooms throughout most of the year, giving it a Latin-derived name, “calendae,” meaning “little calendar” (Li et al., 2020). In European folk medicine, calendula became a staple in ointments, balms, and teas to address dry or irritated skin, and its use spread globally for its gentle, effective benefits.
Conditions Calendula is Used For
Calendula’s mild yet effective properties make it a versatile choice for a variety of skin conditions, including:
1. For Dogs:
- Minor Irritations and Redness: Calendula tea soaks are a popular choice for gently soothing redness or minor skin irritations, such as those caused by seasonal allergies, environmental factors, or dry weather.
- Allergic Conjunctivitis: Calendula may help soothe mild allergic conjunctivitis, which causes red, itchy, watery eyes due to environmental allergens like pollen or dust. The anti-inflammatory compounds in calendula can reduce redness and irritation, making it suitable for a gentle eye rinse.
- Dry Patches and Hot Spots: Calendula balms can be applied directly to hot spots, minor abrasions, or dry patches to provide hydration and a protective barrier. Research has shown that calendula promotes skin hydration and supports healing, making it ideal for sensitive or dry areas (Preethi, Kuttan, & Kuttan, 2009).
- Paw and Nose Care: The moisturising properties of calendula-infused balms help protect dry paw pads and noses, especially during extreme weather, providing a gentle, protective layer without clogging the skin.
2. For People:
- Eczema and Sensitive Skin: Calendula is often used in balms and salves for its soothing effects on sensitive or eczema-prone skin. Studies show that calendula’s anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties can help alleviate itching and dryness (Speroni et al., 2002).
- Minor Cuts, Burns, and Wounds: Calendula's wound-healing abilities make it suitable for small cuts, scrapes, and mild burns. By supporting collagen production and reducing inflammation, calendula aids in natural skin repair, as seen in a Planta Medica study that highlighted its effectiveness in promoting wound closure (Parente et al., 2012).
- Acne and Skin Clarity: Calendula tea soaks are sometimes used as a facial rinse or compress for acne-prone skin. Its mild antimicrobial properties can help support clearer skin by reducing bacteria on the surface without stripping the skin of moisture.
Safe Use of Calendula Tea Soaks for Dogs and People
Calendula tea soaks are a straightforward, gentle way to benefit from calendula’s skin-soothing properties. These soaks can be used as a rinse or compress on irritated areas, offering relief without harsh chemicals.
- How to Make a Calendula Tea Soak: Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers in hot water for about 10–15 minutes, then allow the tea to cool. Once it reaches room temperature, use a soft cloth or cotton pad to apply the tea to the affected area. Avoid using hot or warm tea to prevent any potential skin irritation, especially on pets.
- Suggested Use for Dogs with Allergic Conjunctivitis: Calendula tea soaks may help alleviate mild cases of allergic conjunctivitis in dogs, which presents as red, itchy, and watery eyes. To use, brew a weak calendula tea, allow it to cool, and apply it around the eyes using a clean cotton ball or gauze pad. Avoid direct contact with the eyes. Calendula’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a gentle choice for easing minor irritation around the eyes (Preethi, Kuttan, & Kuttan, 2009).
Calendula Balm for Dogs and People
Calendula balms, made by infusing calendula flowers into a carrier oil, offer a long-lasting solution for targeted skin hydration. When combined with beeswax, the infused oil becomes a balm, creating a protective barrier for dry or irritated skin.
- How to Use Calendula Balm: Apply a small amount of calendula balm to areas needing extra hydration, such as a dog’s paw pads or nose, or dry patches on human skin. Calendula balm is particularly helpful for areas prone to cracking or roughness, as it helps retain moisture and shields the skin from environmental stressors.
- For Dogs: Balms are ideal for paw and nose care, especially in extreme weather. Gently apply the balm to dry areas, ensuring that it absorbs well to avoid excess residue.
- For People: Calendula balm can be used on any rough or dry skin patches, including elbows, hands, or cuticles, offering a gentle way to lock in moisture and keep skin feeling comfortable.
Research on Calendula’s Efficacy
Research supports calendula’s benefits for both wound healing and inflammation:
- Anti-inflammatory and Moisturising: A study in Phytotherapy Research demonstrated calendula’s anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for sensitive skin that may be prone to redness or irritation (Preethi et al., 2009).
- Skin Repair and Wound Healing: Planta Medica reported that calendula helps accelerate wound healing, which supports its use in balms for minor cuts or abrasions in dogs and people (Parente et al., 2012).
- Hydration Support: Calendula’s capacity to enhance skin hydration and barrier function has been demonstrated in studies, highlighting its utility in balms and soaks for dry or flaky skin (Wagner & Seligmann, 2003).
Conclusion
Calendula’s gentle properties make it a versatile solution for addressing common skin concerns in both dogs and people. Backed by history and research, calendula tea soaks and balms provide a natural way to support skin health, from calming minor irritations to moisturising dry areas and soothing mild allergic conjunctivitis. When incorporating calendula into your dog’s or your own skincare, always use organic, pet-safe formulations and consult a veterinarian if your dog has specific sensitivities or skin conditions.
References:
- Li, Y., Zhang, Z., Ren, H., & Wang, Y. (2020). "Calendula officinalis: An overview of the plant and its phytochemistry." *Natural Products Research*, 34(7), 930-935.
- Parente, L. M. L., Lino Júnior, R. d. S., Tresvenzol, L. M. F., Vinaud, M. C., & de Paula, J. R. (2012). "Wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties of calendula officinalis L. extract." *Planta Medica*, 78(16), 1647-1653.
- Preethi, K. C., Kuttan, G., & Kuttan, R. (2009). "Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of flowers of Calendula officinalis Linn." *Phytotherapy Research*, 23(3), 424-429.
- Speroni, E., Cervellati, R., Innocenti, G., Costa, S., Guerra, M. C., Dall’Acqua, S., ... & Govoni, P. (2002). "Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of calendula officinalis extracts." *Veterinary Dermatology*, 13(5), 294-300.
- Wagner, H., & Seligmann, O. (2003). "Phytochemistry and biological activities of calendula officinalis." *HerbalGram*, (59), 42-49.
