Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract is derived from the flowers of the Calendula officinalis plant, commonly known as marigold. This extract is widely used in herbal remedies, cosmetics, and skincare due to its rich content of bioactive compounds that offer multiple health benefits, particularly for the skin. Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract is a versatile natural remedy and skincare ingredient known for its potent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. Its bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, triterpenoids, Carotenoids, and Polysaccharides, make it a powerful ally in soothing irritated skin, promoting healing, protecting against free radicals, and improving overall skin health.
Active Substances Contained
1. Flavonoids:
These are potent antioxidants found in calendula, such as quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol, which help protect the skin and body from oxidative stress.
2. Triterpenoids:
The primary triterpenoids in calendula are faradiol esters (faradiol-3-myristate and faradiol-3-palmitate), known for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
3. Carotenoids:
Calendula flowers contain high levels of carotenoids like Lutein and beta-carotene, which provide antioxidant protection and support skin health.
4. Saponins:
These natural compounds help boost the immune system and possess antimicrobial properties that help fight infections.
5. Polysaccharides:
Calendula contains immune-boosting polysaccharides that also help in tissue regeneration and wound healing.
6. Essential Oils:
Calendula flowers contain volatile oils, primarily calendulene, alpha-cadinol, and alpha-cadinene, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
7. Phenolic Acids:
Compounds such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid are present in calendula, providing strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Coumarins:
These are compounds that help in reducing inflammation and assist in skin repair.
Specific Effects
1. Anti-Inflammatory Action:
Triterpenoids, particularly faradiol esters, play a key role in calendula’s ability to reduce inflammation. It is widely used for soothing irritated skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. It is also effective in reducing inflammation caused by sunburn, acne, or minor injuries.
2. Wound Healing:
Calendula extract is well-known for promoting the healing of cuts, scrapes, and wounds. Polysaccharides and flavonoids support tissue regeneration, while antimicrobial properties help prevent infections. The extract stimulates the production of collagen, which aids in quicker wound healing and skin repair.
3. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties:
Calendula extract is effective against bacteria and fungi. The essential oils, flavonoids, and saponins present in calendula help protect the skin from infections, making it beneficial for treating minor wounds, cuts, and acne.
4. Antioxidant Protection:
Flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids provide potent antioxidant effects, protecting the skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure, pollution, and other environmental factors. This makes calendula beneficial in anti-aging products by helping to prevent wrinkles and skin degradation.
5. Skin Soothing and Hydration:
Calendula’s anti-inflammatory and emollient properties help soothe dry, irritated, or damaged skin. It is commonly used in creams and lotions to calm sensitive skin, reduce redness, and restore moisture balance. It is particularly useful for soothing sunburn, diaper rash, and irritation.
6. Promotes Oral Health:
The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of calendula make it beneficial for oral health. It is used in mouthwashes and toothpastes to soothe sore gums, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of mouth ulcers.
7. Improves Skin Elasticity:
Calendula extract supports collagen production and protects elastin, helping improve skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The presence of carotenoids and flavonoids further aids in maintaining a youthful appearance.
8. Antispasmodic Properties:
Calendula has mild antispasmodic effects, which are useful for reducing muscle cramps and soothing gastrointestinal discomfort. It is sometimes used in herbal teas or tinctures for this purpose.
9. Immunomodulatory Effects:
The polysaccharides in calendula extract can help modulate the immune system, making it useful for improving overall immune health and speeding up the body’s healing response.
10. Scar Prevention:
Calendula extract’s wound-healing properties, combined with its ability to promote collagen production, help reduce the appearance of scars and promote smoother skin. It is often applied to wounds to prevent excessive scarring.
Applications
1. Skincare Products:
Calendula extract is widely used in creams, lotions, balms, and serums designed to soothe, hydrate, and heal the skin. It is often found in products for sensitive skin or those targeting conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne.
2. Wound Care:
Calendula is used in natural first aid treatments for minor wounds, burns, and cuts. Its ability to speed up healing and reduce inflammation makes it a popular ingredient in ointments and salves for wound care.
3. Oral Care Products:
Calendula is included in mouthwashes and toothpastes for its soothing and antimicrobial properties. It helps treat gingivitis, mouth ulcers, and sore gums.
4. Hair Care:
Calendula extract is sometimes used in shampoos and conditioners to promote scalp health, reduce irritation, and nourish the hair.
5. Anti-Aging Products:
Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, calendula is commonly found in anti-aging skincare products. It helps protect the skin from oxidative stress, improve elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
6. Baby Care:
Calendula’s gentle and soothing properties make it ideal for use in baby care products, including diaper rash creams and lotions designed for sensitive skin.
