Gentle skin care: Calendula

Prelude
Using flowers in skin care is increasingly becoming more common.  In fact, most if not all natural or organic skin care manufacturers these days use extracts taken from fresh flowers as active ingedients in their product range.  Apart from the fact that they are natural ingredients, using flowers in skin care recipes is great because it creates skin care products that smell absolutely delightful as there is nothing more lovely and breathtaking than the scent of fresh flowers.  Calendula, also known as pot marigold is a prime example.

Overview
- contains flavenoids for anti-inflammatory activity
- contains carotenoids with antioxidant properties
- works as an ideal topical agent 
- popular herbal anti-fungal and anti-bacterial remedy
- used in ointments, lotions, infused oils, and body butters
- suitable for eczema, psoriasis, diaper rash, acne and burns
- contains emollient properties
- useful to soften post-surgical scars
- gentle enough for use on baby’s skin

Purported skin care benefits when applied topically:
- promotes skin healing and cell regeneration
- soothes inflamed and irritated skin
- provides antibacterial and antifungal benefits
- rejuvenates, softens and brightens skin
- soothes scalp and combats dandruff

Known side effects
- skin rash, itching, hives and even irregular breathing for some 

Other names
- Calendula officinalis

Products containing this ingredient:
- Lavera Calendula Skincare Range
- Jurlique Calendula Cream

It should be noted that the golden-orange or yellow fresh flowers of Calendula grows in North America, Europe and Western Asia and has just been selected the 2008 Herb of the Year by the International Herb Association.

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