Calendula and Hibiscus info

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Calendula (Calendula officinalis); Spicy, bitter Annual; Saffron substitute; Neutral energy: Marigold takes its botanical name from calends, Latin for the first day of each month, to emphasize its long flowering period. It is one of our most versatile herbs, and was used medicinally by the ancient Greeks. In old English, marigold was known as Golds, but later became associated first with the Virgin Mary and then with Queen Mary. Looking upon marigolds was supposed to strengthen the eyesight. For centuries, the English and Germans believed that eating the flowers maintained health throughout the winter. The practice of coloring butter made from autumn and winter milk – low in vitamin A and pale compared to spring butter – with skin-healing Calendula was so common that butter became widely known as a burn ointment. Calendula may be used safely wherever there is an inflammation of the skin, whether due to infection or physical damage, such as varicose veins, rashes, stings and skin irritations. A strong tea can be washed over skin eruptions, including chicken pox and measles. Laboratory studies show it kills bacteria and fungus, and may be used internally or externally to combat such infections. It may be used for any external bleeding or wound, bruising or strains. It is ideal for first-aid treatment of minor burns and scalds, used as a lotion, lip balm or compress. Internally, it may be used in the treatment of gastric and duodenal ulcers, and has been used to promote the draining of swollen lymph glands such as tonsillitis. It is part of the therapy for uterine or breast cancer, both as a poultice and as a tea. Some anti-tumor activities have been observed in scientific studies. It helps relieve liver and gall-bladder problems and indigestion. It also helps with delayed menstruation and alleviates painful menstrual periods. A Calendula hair rinse brings out yellow and gold highlights. It is also used in ointments for sensitive skin and is safe for babies. The flowers produce a bright yellow dye in a boiling bath. Do not use during pregnancy. For digestive problems, it combines well with Marshmallow Root. A soothing external preparation can be made with Slippery Elm. A useful antiseptic lotion will be produced by combining it with Golden Seal and Myrrh.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus abelmoschus); Evergreen shrub: Hibiscus is generally used as a stimulant and to ease indigestion, cramp and nervous dyspepsia. In Chinese medicine it is used to treat headache. In Egypt, the seeds are used to sweeten the breath and made into an emulsion with milk to be used for itch. Works well for anxiety, depression, nervous tension and stress-related conditions, and is used in aromatherapy.