Calendula Officinalis, commonly known as calendula, is a type of plant that produces beautiful flowers. For centuries, people have used calendula in various medicinal practices due to its numerous health benefits. In particular, calendula is renowned for its ability to treat wounds, rashes, and inflamed skin.
Calendula boasts powerful properties that can enhance skin health. For example, it contains anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal compounds that can alleviate skin issues. These properties make calendula especially useful in healing wounds or infected skin, as well as soothing irritated skin conditions such as Psoriasis.
In this article, we’ll explore why calendula is an effective treatment for psoriasis
Benefits of Calendula for Treating Psoriasis
Calendula is a natural remedy that can effectively treat psoriasis symptoms. Below are some of the benefits of using calendula for treating psoriasis:
- Reduces Inflammation: Calendula contains anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation associated with psoriasis.
- Promotes Wound Healing: Calendula has wound-healing properties that can help to heal psoriatic skin lesions and prevent further infections.
- Alleviates Pain and Itching: Calendula has analgesic properties that can reduce pain and itching associated with psoriasis.
- Moisturizes Skin: Calendula contains emollient properties that can moisturize and soothe dry, irritated skin affected by psoriasis.
- Boosts Immunity: Calendula has immune-boosting properties that can help to improve the overall health of psoriasis patients and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
- Safe and Natural: Calendula is a natural remedy that has no known side effects and is safe for long-term use.
Types of Calendula Treatment Available
- Creams and ointments: These topical treatments are the most common way to use calendula for psoriasis. The creams and ointments can be applied directly to the affected areas of skin and provide relief from symptoms such as itching, redness, and inflammation.
- Bath soaks and tinctures: Calendula can also be used in baths or as a topical tincture. For example, a calendula bath soak can help reduce inflammation caused by psoriasis. A tincture can also be applied topically to the affected areas to reduce itchiness and redness.
- Supplements and oral medications: In some cases, supplements or oral medication may be prescribed by a doctor to treat psoriasis with calendula. These medications should only be taken after consulting a doctor about potential risks or side effects.
How to Use Calendula for Treating Psoriasis
There are 4 main ways to use calendula for treating psoriasis:
- Calendula Cream: Apply calendula cream directly to the affected area twice a day. The cream can help to reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and moisturize the skin.
- Calendula Oil: Mix a few drops of calendula oil with carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, and apply it to the affected area. The oil can help to reduce itching, redness, and inflammation.
- Calendula Tea: Brew calendula tea and soak a clean cloth in the tea. Apply the cloth to the affected area for a few minutes. The tea can help to soothe and moisturize the skin.
- Calendula Bath: Add a few drops of calendula oil or a handful of calendula flowers to a warm bath. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes. The bath can help to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin.
How to Prepare Calendula to Treat Psoriasis
Here are some ways to prepare calendula for treating psoriasis:
- Calendula Cream: You can purchase calendula cream from a health food store or online. Alternatively, you can make your own by infusing calendula flowers in oil and adding beeswax to create a creamy texture. Here’s how to make it:
- Place dried calendula flowers in a jar and cover with olive oil.
- Let the jar sit in a warm, sunny spot for 2-4 weeks.
- Strain the oil and add beeswax to create a thick, creamy texture.
- Store the cream in a cool, dark place and apply it to the affected area twice a day.
- Calendula Oil: You can purchase calendula oil from a health food store or online. Alternatively, you can make your own by infusing calendula flowers in oil. Here’s how to make it:
- Place dried calendula flowers in a jar and cover with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil.
- Let the jar sit in a warm, sunny spot for 2-4 weeks.
- Strain the oil and store it in a cool, dark place.
- Apply the oil to the affected area as needed.
- Calendula Tea: You can purchase dried calendula flowers from a health food store or online. Here’s how to make calendula tea:
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers to a cup of boiling water.
- Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and let it cool.
- Soak a clean cloth in the tea and apply it to the affected area for a few minutes.
- Calendula Bath: You can purchase dried calendula flowers from a health food store or online. Here’s how to make a calendula bath:
- Add a handful of dried calendula flowers to a warm bath.
- Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes.
- Pat dry and apply a moisturizer to the skin.
Side Effects of Using Calendula for Psoriasis Treatment
Calendula is generally safe to use for treating psoriasis, but there are some potential side effects to be aware of. Here are some side effects of using calendula for psoriasis treatment:
- Allergic reactions: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to calendula, especially if they are allergic to other plants in the Asteraceae family, such as chamomile or ragweed. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, redness, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Skin irritation: Calendula can sometimes cause skin irritation, especially if it is used in high concentrations or if the skin is already inflamed or broken. Symptoms of skin irritation may include itching, redness, or a rash.
- Photosensitivity: Calendula may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can increase the risk of sunburn or skin damage. It is important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when using calendula.
- Drug interactions: Calendula may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or sedatives. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using calendula if you are taking any medications.
If you experience any of these side effects while using calendula for psoriasis treatment, stop using it immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.
In conclusion, remember that while calendula can be an effective natural remedy for psoriasis, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive treatment plan.