Derived from the flower of the marigold plant, calendula is used topically for wound healing ⁽¹⁾. Major constituents of the leaves and stems include lutein and beta-carotene ⁽²⁾. Preclinical studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory ⁽³⁾, antioxidant ⁽⁴⁾, antimicrobial ⁽⁵⁾, and cytotoxic effects ^(9) (10). Animal models also suggest photo- and cardioprotective properties ^(15) (16).

Studies in humans are limited. An herbal formulation containing calendula appeared to reduce acute otitis media ^(7) (8). Other studies suggest benefit with prophylactic topical calendula for radiation dermatitis ^(11) (13), diabetic foot and venous leg ulcers ^(23) (24), vaginal candidiasis ⁽²⁶⁾, and episiotomy pain ⁽²⁹⁾. Calendula-containing rinse may help chemotherapy-induced stomatitis ⁽¹⁷⁾, but was ineffective for preventing chemoradiotherapy-induced mucositis ⁽²⁷⁾. Larger studies are needed to confirm these observations.