Marigold (Pot Marigold)

Calendula officinalis

Pot Marigolds are easy to grow and their sunny yellow/orange flowers abundant to harvest. 

The flower heads can be infused in oil and made into a simple  antiseptic ointment for treating cuts and grazes. Calendula is anti-microbial, anti-fungal and also speeds up tissue healing.

Calendula cream is one of the primary, staple medicinal creams we use as a first aid treatment in the refugee camps in Calais and Dunkirk. Where conditions are stressful and/or unhygienic, the mildest of grazes or bites can escalate quickly to a more serious infection. 

Creams are more complicated to make than simple ointments, because they contain a water portion as well as oil. They therefore need to be stabilised as an emulsion and element of preservation is required. To find a cream making workshop near you that contributes to refugee Solidarity work visit our events page.

To find out more about herbal medicine first aid work in Calais visit the Mobile Herbal Clinic Calais website