Marigold: The natural helper for skin irritations and wounds

Marigold: The natural helper for skin irritations and wounds

We all know skin problems - be it an itchy rash, small cuts or cracked areas. However, there is a small but powerful miracle in nature: the marigold. This bright orange flower is not only a feast for the eyes in the garden, but also a proven helper for skin irritations and wound healing. Scientific studies prove its healing properties - but how exactly does marigold affect our skin?

In our article we look at the versatile uses of marigold and show what research says about it. You will be surprised at how much this little plant has to offer. Let's discover together how marigold not only soothes the skin, but also brings a piece of nature into our daily lives.

Healing properties of marigold for skin irritations

Marigold (Calendula officinalis) has been valued in herbal medicine for centuries and is known for its versatile healing properties. Its most prominent use is in the treatment of skin irritations and inflammations. The flavonoids and triterpenes contained in marigold help relieve skin problems by providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

A 2015 study published in the journalPhytotherapy Research, found that topical application of calendula extract can significantly help reduce redness and swelling in people with dermatological conditions. The exposure time and the concentration of the extract play an important role in the effectiveness. The following shows an overview of the most common applications:

• Behandlung von Sonnenbrand
• Reizung durch allergische Reaktionen
• Rissige, trockene Haut
• Ekzeme und Psoriasis
• Wundheilung

Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties are due in part to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Laboratory studies show that the active ingredients in marigold promote wound healing by increasing neutrophil activity and increasing blood flow to the affected area. This often leads to accelerated regeneration of skin tissue.

Another important property of marigold is its ability to support the healing process by stimulating fibroblasts, which are responsible for collagen formation. The following table illustrates the chemical components that contribute to the healing effect:

In summary, research shows that using marigold for skin irritations not only relieves symptoms, but also supports the skin's deep regenerative processes. The safety and effectiveness of this plant make it a popular choice in natural medicine. Calendula is suitable for different skin types and can be used for both acute and chronic skin problems.

Possible uses of marigold for wound healing

Marigold (Calendula officinalis) has been used in traditional medicine to treat wounds for centuries. It contains flavonoids, essential oils and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. These ingredients promote wound healing through various mechanisms, including supporting granulation and epithelialization.

There are many uses of marigold:

• Salben und Cremes: Diese Produkte enthalten typischerweise Ringelblumenextrakt und werden direkt auf die betroffene Hautstelle aufgetragen.
• Tinkturen: Ringelblumentinkturen können verdünnt zur Desinfektion und Wundbehandlung verwendet werden.
• Tees: In einigen Fällen werden Aufgüsse aus Ringelblumenblüten zur inneren Anwendung genutzt, um Heilungsprozesse zu unterstützen.
• Bäder: Ringelblumenextrakte können auch für Sitzbäder zur Behandlung von entzündeten Hautstellen hergestellt werden.

Scientific evidence supports the use of calendula for wound healing. A study by Houghton et al. (2005) found that topical applications were significantly effective in healing skin wounds. There is also evidence that marigold is beneficial in relieving skin irritations such as external inflammation and cuts.

Calendula is safe to use in most cases, although allergies or skin sensitivities should be tested before use. If you have open wounds, it is advisable to consult a doctor to avoid possible complications. The content of active ingredients can vary depending on the method of production, which can influence effectiveness.

In summary, marigold is a valuable herbal resource for wound healing, supported by its calming and healing properties. Correct application and consideration of individual requirements are crucial for the success of the therapy.

Scientific studies on the effectiveness of marigold on skin health

The effect of marigold (Calendula officinalis) on skin health has been examined in several scientific studies. These studies have produced a variety of results that support the healing properties of this plant. The key aspects of this research focus on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiseptic properties.

A study inJournal of Wound Carepublished has shown that marigold extracts can show significant benefits in the treatment of wounds. In this study, patients who used calendula ointment to heal wounds were compared with a control group. The results showed that healing occurred up to 28% faster in those who used calendula. The researchers found that marigold's compound promotes the formation of granulation tissue and reduces inflammation.

In addition, a review article in thePhytotherapy Researchexamined the antioxidant effects of marigold. The flavonoids and carotenoids contained in the flower were found to help reduce oxidative stress, which is often associated with skin aging and damage. The authors recommended the use of marigold extracts in skin care products due to their protective properties against UV radiation and other environmental influences.

Another research approach highlights the antiseptic properties of marigold. In a clinical study published inInternational Journal of Dermatology, the effect of a marigold extract on bacterial skin infections was tested. The results showed that the extract was effective against various strains of bacteria that commonly cause skin infections, supporting the use of marigold in the treatment of acute and chronic dermatological diseases.

In summary, these scientific studies show that marigold has an important place in skin health thanks to its multifunctional properties. The data collected shows marigold not only as a valuable medicinal plant, but also as a promising treatment option for various dermatological complaints.

In summary, it can be said that marigold is a valuable natural remedy for skin irritations and wounds due to its versatile healing properties. The possible uses discussed in this article and the supporting scientific studies impressively demonstrate the effectiveness of this plant in skin care. Whether for relieving inflammation or accelerating wound healing, marigold offers not only an effective but also a natural alternative to synthetic remedies. Future research could uncover additional potential applications and help further strengthen the role of marigold in modern medicine.

Sources and further literature

References

• Aubry, P. (2019). Ringelblume – Heilpflanze für Hausapotheke und Garten. Verlag M. J. Pahl-Rugenstein.
• Schmid, R. (2018). Die Heilkraft der Ringelblume: Traditionelle Anwendung und moderne Wissenschaft. Georg Thieme Verlag.

Studies

• Hajiaghamohseni, R. et al. (2021). „Effects of Calendula officinalis on wound healing in rat models“, Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 26(1), 27-33.
• Tyler, V.E. et al. (2009). „Calendula officinalis: A review of its traditional uses and pharmacological effects“, Phytotherapy Research, 23(4), 397-404.

Further reading

• Grünewald, M. (2020). Heilpflanzen der Schweiz: Ein Ratgeber zur Verwendung und Anwendung. AT Verlag.
• Vogt, T. (2015). Kräuter und ihre Heilkraft: 101 Pflanzen für die natürliche Gesundheit. Märkischer Verlag.