The calendula oil is a natural extract from the flowers of the calendula plant (Calendula officinalis ). It is often used as a complementary treatment to medicines or other products and valued for its antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Its use can be interesting for healing wounds, relieving eczema or diaper rash in babies and sick elderly.
In this article we want to offer you more information about the potential benefits of calendula oil for your skin, with 7 references valued by the scientific community.
Calendula oil is produced using calendula flowers and mixing them with an oil source. The final product can be used to make ointments, lotions or creams. In addition, calendula extract can be processed to make tincture, infusions and capsules.
Benefits of Calendula Oil for the Skin
The calendula oil it can be an alternative remedy to treat various skin problems and improve its appearance and hydration. We wanted to group up to 7 main uses that we can give calendula oil to protect our skin.
1. Calendula oil to speed up wound healing
Calendula oil can accelerate wound healing in combination with other plants of similar uses, such as Aloe Vera. As suggested by some scientific studies. [Aloe vera and calendula in wound healing]
In the study, those women who used the mixture of Aloe vera and calendula extract noticed a noticeable improvement against swelling, redness and inflammation.
2. Treatment of eczema
Although there is currently no research to back it up, some people use calendula to treat eczema. Related to this, one trial found positive references for relieving the pain of dermatitis in people receiving radiation for breast cancer. [See study]
3. Sun protection with calendula extract
Calendula oil can be a viable option to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
A clinical study conducted in 2012 determined that calendula oil had SPF properties. However, more scientific evidence is needed to be able to use it as a sunscreen to replace current products.
4. Psoriasis Treatment
The soothing and wound-healing properties provided by the use of calendula oil could be a good option for relieving psoriasis symptoms. However, there is still no research concluding these positive results. According to the people who use it daily, it produces remarkable benefits, but it must be supported by the scientific community.
5. Reduction of acne symptoms
Some people use calendula oil to reduce the symptoms of acne. A laboratory study found positive benefits of calendula extract in treating and preventing acne vulgaris, although more research trials are currently needed, especially in humans.
Today we can find several products that use calendula extract in their composition as a facial cleanser or for treatments of acne-prone areas, even in homemade masks.
6. Relief of diaper rash
Calendula extract may reduce symptoms related to diaper rash. It is usually used in conjunction with the active ingredients of Aloe Vera. To relieve the rash of the diaper, we can apply a small amount of calendula alone or in a mixture with Aloe vera gel on the affected area several times a day.
7. Improve the appearance of the skin
Calendula oil can improve the overall appearance of your skin, based on better hydration and reduction of inflammatory processes. There are references, without contrast, that calendula extract can be used to treat contact dermatitis.
Can there be side effects?
The calendula plant is usually safe to use, but they may exist some contraindications.
It is advisable to avoid any active ingredient of calendula if you are allergic to a family of plants Asteraceae or composite.
Avoid taking calendula by mouth without beneplácito the medical specialist, especially if we are taking medications, as there may be side effects, inhibit or enhance their effect.
Other Skin Care Treatments
There are several other natural skin care products you can use to improve the feel and appearance of your skin. You can find pre-made products containing these ingredients or research recipes to make your own creations.