Calendula: A Vibrant and Versatile Herbal Ally
Folk Names: Bride of the Sun, Drunkard, Goldes, Holigolde, Husbandman’s Dial, Marybud, Mary Gowles, Ruddes, Reddles, Spousa Solis, Summer’s Bride
Calendula, also known as Calendula Officinalis, is a beautiful and potent herb that has been highly cherished and utilized by herbalists, gardeners, and magical practitioners throughout history. This comprehensive guide will explore the plant’s physical characteristics, growing habits, common uses in health and wellness, and Calendula’s metaphysical and magical aspects.
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Magical Correspondences: Protection, Psychic Expansion, Justice and Legal Matters, Prophecy, Dreams, Luck and Lottery
When to Harvest: Summer, Noon. When the Sun is hottest and strongest
Parts of the Plant to be Used: Petals primarily, though leaves and roots can be harvested to empower spells further.
Physical Characteristics and Growing Habits
Calendula is an annual plant native to Europe, Western Asia, and the United States. It thrives in almost any soil and can be found in many gardens, as it is easy to grow in average, moderately fertile, well-drained soils that receive full sunlight. The plant branches out with stems that reach 30 to 60 cm in height, adorned with vibrant orange-yellow petals. Botanically, Calendula is part of the Asteraceae/Compositae family, including daisies, chrysanthemums, and ragweed.
The dried petals of the Calendula plant are used for their numerous healing properties, with the best time to harvest being at noon when the sun is at its strongest.
Health and Wellness Uses
While not typically taken orally, except in small amounts within homeopathic preparations, Calendula is renowned for its topical applications. It has been used to expedite the healing of burns, cuts, and bruises and as a remedy for dermatitis, hemorrhoids, and even ear infections in children. The infused oil can be created by steeping the flower petals in carrier oils, such as olive oil or coconut oil, and then used to make ointments, balms, creams, or lotions.
Note: It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using Calendula, especially for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, or have any allergies to plants in the daisy or aster family, as it can cause adverse reactions.
Metaphysical and Magical Associations
Calendula has a rich history of magical associations and uses. It is considered a masculine plant connected to the Sun and the Fire element. The vibrant petals of the flower have been used for protection, psychic expansion, justice and legal matters, prophecy, dreams, luck, and lottery.
Deities often associated with Calendula include Sun Gods, such as Apollo, and the plant has been used to symbolize vitality.
Folklore, Cultural, and Historical Uses
Throughout history, Calendula has been interwoven with various cultures’ folklore and prized for its symbolism. The Romans, who named the plant, falsely claimed that it bloomed on the first day of each month, hence the name Calendula, which stems from the Latin word “kalends.”
Calendula has been commonly used in love magic and as an aphrodisiac. One European legend tells that a maiden who steps on Calendula with her bare foot will understand the language of birds. Although this claim has not been scientifically proven, it is a testament to this beloved plant’s potent and magical reputation.
Cautions and Contraindications
As with any herb, it is essential to use Calendula with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Calendula is generally considered safe when applied topically but for those with allergies to plants in the daisy.
Calendula Recipes
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Calendula Spells
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