The concern is a medicinal plant, also known as much desired margarita, poorly researched, wonderful, golden or warty, widely used in popular culture to treat skin problems, especially burns and inflammations.
However, according to some studies, this plant also seems to have other incredible benefits, such as helping to protect the liver, regulating blood sugar and even strengthening the immune system.
- The scientific name of the concern is Calendula officinalis and can be purchased in health food stores.
- Pharmacies and in some markets and open markets.
These are the main health benefits of calendula
Its ability to stimulate healing is the main advantage for which calendula is known, and several studies show its positive effect on healing of various types of wounds, from cuts to burns.
This effect appears to be related to its anti-inflammatory, soothing and antimicrobial properties, which in addition to reducing the pain and swelling of the site, also inhibit the development of microorganisms. In addition, other studies have also shown that calendula increases blood flow to the wound site and stimulates collagen formation, which are two fundamental pillars for good healing.
According to some animal studies, the use of alcoholic calendula extract may protect liver cells from injuries caused by the use of certain medications, especially acetamidafene.
In addition to stimulating healing, calendula can also be used to supplement the treatment of infected wounds, as it has a strong antimicrobial action, capable of eliminating fungi, bacteria and parasites. Therefore, cold tea can be a good option for cleaning wounds, for example.
The worrying flowers contain compounds that seem to increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin, which helps to better control blood sugar levels.
In addition, the use of this plant with oral antidiabetics also seems to increase the effectiveness of these drugs, helping to control sugar levels in diabetics.
Because of its strong anti-inflammatory, soothing and healing action, calendula can also be used to reduce inflammation of the mouth, such as canker sores or gingivitis, as well as other coporal mucous membranes.
In some cultures, calendula tea is also used to alleviate symptoms of gastric problems, however, there are few studies on this effect.
Calendula has a strong antioxidant action thanks to its rich composition in alkaloids, carotenoids and flavonoids, able to eliminate free radicals and strengthen the immune system.
In addition, some laboratory research has also shown that the use of concern water extracts also seems to increase the activation of lymphocytes, which are important immune system cells.
The most commonly used part of the concern is its dried flowers, which can be used to make teas, infusions, baths, ointments, poultices or dyes.
Some of the most popular ways to use concern at home include
To facilitate application on the skin, calendula can also be found in some pharmacies and health food stores in the form of ointment, which may contain other natural substances that also aid healing.
Although rare, some people may experience symptoms of allergic skin reaction, such as redness, swelling and itching. In such cases, the skin should be washed with cold water to remove the substance.
Due to a lack of education in pregnant women and children under 6 years of age, calendula should only be used with the advice of a doctor in these groups.