Calendula / Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Folk Names: Bride of the Sun, Calendula, Drunkard, Goldes, Holigolde, Marybud, Marygold, Mary Gowles, Ruddes, Ruddles, Spousa Solis, Summer’s Bride
Parts Used: The Whole Plant
Calendula is a genus of 15- 20 species and are part of the daisy family Asteraceae also known as marigolds. The calendula species are native to southwestern Asia, Western Europe, Macaronesia and the Mediterranean
The History of Calendula
Traditionally Calendula has been used as a culinary and medicinal herb. In ancient times the Romans and Greeks used Calendula in rituals and ceremonies, and commonly used the golden variety of flowers to wear as crowns or garlands.
Calendula is commonly called Mary Gold and this stems from its use in early catholic events. Calendula is also a sacred flower in India and have been used to decorate statues of the deities since ancient times.
The vibrant coloured flowers were often used to dye fabrics and also used to lighten hair.
Culinary Uses of Calendula
The petals of the Caneldula are edible and are often used in fresh salads or sprinkled over cakes for decoration. The vibrant colour of calendula is used to colour cheese or replace saffron as a colouring agent in a recipe.
Medicinal Uses of Calendula
The oil of C.officinlis flowers is known for its medicinal properties and is still used medicinally to this day. The oil is most commonly used as an anti-inflammatory, anti tumor agent, healing wounds and to stop bleeding.
During the American Civil War the flowers were used to treat and dress open wounds on the battlefields for it’s anti hemorrhagic and antiseptic abilities. It was known to stop bleeding prevent infection and speed healing when the flowers were applied to wounds.
Studies have also suggested that extracts from calendula may have an antiviral, antigenotoxic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula can also be used in the form of a tincture and can be used to treat conditions such as acne and reducing inflammation.
Traditionally Calendula has also been used for cramping and constipation. Recent experiments have shown the aqueous-ethanol extract of C. officinalis flowers have spasmolytic and spasmogenic effects making it useful for ailments of the digestive tract. It was also used to detoxify the liver and gall bladder.
Magickal Uses of Calendula
Calendula is the traditional “he loves me, he loves me not” flower making it useful for love potions and sybolises love and constancy in a relationship. It is said to strengthen and comfort the heart when picked at noon.
It is said once you collect the soil from where a prospective lover has stepped and place it in the pot of a calendula flower the health of the plant will indicate the health of the relationship.
Hang marigold over your door to keep negativity and evil from entering. When the petals are scattered under the bed or placed inside a pillow they encourage prophetic dreams and offer protection while sleeping.
It is said marigold will grant a vision of anyone who has stolen something from the bearer and carry to bring favour to matters of court or legal proceedings.
To receive respect and admiration from everyone you meet take a bath with petals or calendula infused water.
Use the oil of calendula to consecrate your tools and use an incense for divination.
Representing the sun this herb can be used in sacred baths, incense and rituals. As a dying agent it is perfect for colouring altar cloths and other offerings to honour the sun.
Associated with Samhain and the Mexican Day of the Dead it is used in ceremonies of remembrance and funerals. Use in magic to remember deceased loved ones.
Calendula is also considered a lucky herb. Sleep with a green bag filled with calendula to promote luck. It is said that one will have a lucky dream followed by good fortune when playing games of chance such as slots, keno, lottery, bingo etc.
Warnings
Calendula may cause allergic reactions in some people. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid taking calendula.
Calendula may also cause drowsiness when combined with other medications.
We have listed known warnings about this plant. These warnings are a guide only and although some magical herbs are safe in small quantities they can be poisonous in large doses or if used incorrectly. If you are not experienced in herbs the rule to stick by is “when in doubt….don’t risk it”.
Looking for herbs, herb grinders and mortar and pestles? Shop online at our website https://thesacredwillow.com.au/
Disclaimer: This site is for informative purposes only and its content should not be considered professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy it is no replacement for the attention of a dedicated professional. The Sacred Willow and it’s proprietors cannot be held responsible for any damage and/or injury suffered resulting from actions and/or decisions based on information found on the site. Please do not self diagnose any condition regarding your own or another’s health. Always seek professional advice or arrange a consultation.
Some of the information provided on this Witchcraft Blog are based on myth, folklore and tradition and may suggest some supernatural or medicinal powers, however we make no claims as to their medical, magickal, psychic or esoteric properties and are sold as curios only.
References: “Wikipedia.org”. Calendula. Retrieved 24/06/2016, “Herbs2000.com”. Calendula. Retrieved 24/06/2016, “WebMD.com”. Calendula. Retrieved 24/06/2016, Cunningham, Scott. Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs. Llewellyn Publications; 1st edition (October 1985). Print.
