Calendula is a European herb in the sunflower family that is also
known as ruddles, marybud, pot marigold, summer's bride, husbandman's
dial. The latter refers to the flower’s tendency to follow the sun. In
fact, the genus name for Calendula is taken from the Latin phrase that
means, “little clock.”
Historically, calendula has been used to produce various preparations
for skin and hair. It is a traditional ingredient in soaps, salves and
balms and in lotions and creams formulated to address dry or irritated
skin. Calendula tea is used as a final rinse to add golden highlights to
lighter shades of hair.
In cooking, calendula is a popular tea ingredient. The herb also lends
subtle flavor and color to soups, broths and other liquids, as well as
rice. In fact, calendula is often used as an alternative
saffron,
earning the herb the nickname “poor man’s saffron.”
