2015yr dried calendula flowers,chinese flower tea, Marigold Tea

Calendula (also known as Marigold) has been used medicinally for centuries.  Traditionally, it has been used to treat conjunctivitis, eczema, gastric problems, minor burns (including sunburn), warts and other injuries, such as sprains and wounds. Calendula has also been used to treat cramps, coughs and snake bites.  Calendula has a high content of flavonoids, (chemicals that act as anti-oxidants in the body).  Anti-oxidants are thought to protect body cells from damage caused by a chemical process called oxidation.  Oxidation produces oxygen free radicals, natural chemicals that may suppress immune function.

Calendula has been considered beneficial in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.  It has been used to treat a variety of skin diseases and has been seen effective in treatment of skin ulcerations, eczema and acne.  Improvement has been seen in as little as 3-4 days of treatment according to some research.

Calendula contains chemicals, which have been shown in studies, to speed up wound-healing by several actions that include increasing blood flow to the affected area and promoting the production of collagen proteins.  Calendula also possesses anti-septic and anti-inflammatory effects, due to its flavonoid content.  In mouthwashes and gargles, Calendula soothes a sore throat or the mouth tissue.  It has also been used to treat haemorrhoids.

Compresses of Calendula blossoms are helpful for varicose veins.  Results from recent laboratory studies show that Calendula may also have some anti-infective properties, particularly against fungal infections and against viruses.