Calendula

Calendula officianalis (also known as pot marigold) is an easy-to-grow annual that provides welcome colour to the winter garden. This herb has potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular treatment for a variety of skin ailments.

Planting tips :

• Choose an area of your garden where your calendula flowers can grow undisturbed for a few years as the flowers drop their seeds and will re-seed your flowerbed each year
• Sow calendula seeds in a sunny area of your garden with well-draining soil. Sow seeds approximately 0.5cm deep and water well.
• Calendula grows like a weed in many parts of Europe so it’s not necessary to feed or water this plant very often.

Uses :

• Calendula petals are edible. Use them fresh in salads or dry them and use them as a substitute for saffron in cooked dishes.
• Calendula ointment can be used to treat dry winter skin or eczema. To make the ointment, place a handful of fresh or dried flowers in a glass dish. Cover with olive oil and place in the oven at 70°C for 45 minutes (cover the dish with a lid). Leave the mixture to cool and then strain it through a cloth. Store your ointment in the fridge.