Key benefits of calendula marigold include:

• Analgesic Properties: The topical application of calendula derived ointments have been shown to decrease pain and inflammation.   

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Calendula has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce inflammation in various conditions, such as oral mucositis, dermatitis, and gastrointestinal inflammation.

• Antimicrobial Properties: Calendula extracts have shown antimicrobial activity against certain bacteria and fungi. They can help inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms and contribute to the prevention or treatment of infections.

• Oral Health: Calendula mouthwashes or rinses have benefits in oral health. They can help reduce inflammation, promote oral wound healing, and inhibit the growth of certain oral bacteria.

• Skin Health: Calendula extracts and creams have benefits in various skin conditions, including dermatitis, eczema, and dry or damaged skin. Calendula can help soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote skin regeneration.

• Wound Healing: Calendula has been traditionally used topically for wound healing. Some studies suggest that calendula preparations, such as creams or ointments, can promote wound healing by increasing collagen production, reducing inflammation, and protecting against infection.

Avoid calendula marigold if taking the following medications:

• Anticoagulant Medications: Calendula marigold may have mild blood-thinning properties. Combining it with anticoagulant medications such as warfarin or aspirin could increase the risk of bleeding. Use caution and consult with a healthcare provider.

• Sedatives and CNS Depressants: Calendula marigold may have sedative effects. Combining it with medications that also have sedative properties, such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or opioids, could enhance these effects, leading to increased drowsiness or central nervous system depression.

• Immunosuppressants: Calendula marigold may enhance the effects of immunosuppressant medications, increasing the risk of infections or other complications. Combining it with drugs like tacrolimus or cyclosporine could weaken the immune system's response. Use caution and consult with a healthcare provider.

• Diabetes Medications: Calendula marigold may affect blood sugar levels. Combining it with medications used to treat diabetes could potentially enhance the medications' effects, leading to low blood sugar levels. Monitor blood sugar levels closely and consult with a healthcare provider.

• Liver Metabolised Drugs: Calendula marigold may affect liver function or metabolism. Combining it with medications metabolised by the liver could potentially alter their effectiveness or increase the risk of adverse effects. Consult with a healthcare provider.

• Clonazepam: A benzodiazepine used for seizures and anxiety. Calendula marigold may potentiate its sedative effects, increasing drowsiness or depression of the central nervous system.

• Lorazepam: A benzodiazepine for anxiety and insomnia. Combining it with calendula marigold may enhance sedative effects, leading to increased drowsiness or central nervous system depression.

• Phenobarbital: A barbiturate anticonvulsant used for epilepsy. Calendula marigold may intensify its sedative effects, resulting in increased drowsiness or central nervous system depression.

• Zolpidem: A non-benzodiazepine for insomnia. Concurrent use with calendula marigold may amplify sedative effects, potentially increasing drowsiness or central nervous system depression.

Individuals with the following allergens or medical conditions should use caution or avoid calendula marigold:

• Ragweed Allergy: Calendula marigold belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes ragweed, daisies, and chrysanthemums. Individuals with known allergies to plants in this family may also be allergic to calendula marigold. Allergic reactions can include skin rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Limited safety information is available on the use of calendula marigold during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should use caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using calendula marigold, as its safety has not been established during these periods.

• Sensitive Skin or Allergic Dermatitis: Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when applying calendula marigold topically. This may include symptoms such as redness, itching, or rash. Individuals with sensitive skin or allergic dermatitis should use calendula marigold cautiously or avoid it altogether.

• Bleeding Disorders: Calendula marigold may have mild blood-thinning properties. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications should use calendula marigold cautiously to avoid potential interactions or excessive bleeding.

• Immune Disorders: Calendula marigold may interact with the immune system and affect immune function. Individuals with autoimmune disorders or other immune-related conditions should use calendula marigold cautiously and consult with a healthcare provider before use.

• Diabetes: Calendula marigold may affect blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when using calendula marigold, as it may interact with diabetes medications or affect blood glucose levels.

• Scheduled surgery: Calendula marigold may have mild blood-thinning properties and can interact with the immune system, which could potentially affect surgical outcomes or increase the risk of complications during or after surgery. It's advisable to discontinue the use of calendula marigold at least two weeks before scheduled surgery to minimise the risk of excessive bleeding or immune-related complications.