Resina (Calendula officinalis) is a variety that has been bred for its high resin content. The resin of the calendula flower (which mainly resides on the underside of the calyx) holds the potent medicinal constituents. These resins are soluble in hot water (tea), alcohol (tincture) and most especially, oil (oil infusion). Calendula oil, an infusion of the dried flowers in oil (typically olive or jojoba) can be used on its own as a healing ointment for skin ailments, or as a base for salves (oil & beeswax). If your intention in growing Calendula is for making medicine, Resina is the variety for you!
The yellow flowers also make a renowned yellow traditional dye.
Health & Healing with Clary Sage:
Use the entire flower head, not just the petals, in preparations for healing cuts, scrapes, burns, diaper rash, sores, ulcers, varicose veins, chapped skin and lips, and insect bites. Salves, oils, creams, and other preparations can be found in drugstores and natural food stores alike. Science shows that extracts of the flower heads have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. And herbalists have long recommended tea infusions of calendula to help heal ulcers in the digestive tract, soothe gallbladder inflammation, and treat enlarged, sore lymph glands.
Calendula can grow to almost two feet tall, and the flowers tend to open with sunny, dry weather and close in cold or moist conditions. They enjoy full sun—or even partial shade in hot summer regions—and average soil, and have moderate water needs. If flower production dwindles, you can cut back the plants to increase new flower production. Calendula will self-sow yearly in many gardens and don't mind crowding. Direct-sow the seeds in early spring or late fall, as they can withstand some frost.
