Calendula: The Safe Herb That's Packed Full of Benefits

Calendula is often more commonly known as pot marigold and is an established member of the sunflower family. You may well know it can be seen all over the world, instantly recognizable by its yellow and orange flowers. What you may not know, is this affordable, easily accessible flower, is jam-packed with properties that can be beneficial to your dog-- from anti-inflammatory qualities and strengthening of the immune system, to pain relief and the treating of wounds. Excessive use of drugs and medication can have serious long-term implications for your dog--calendula is a safe alternative, full of medicinal properties. Continue reading to learn how it can improve the health of your dog and how you can administer it effectively.

 

Healing Wounds and Relieving Pain

 

Calendula is a useful tool to have in your canine first aid kit. An article from The Valahia University of Targoviste, entitled ‘Complex Spectral Characterization of Active Principles from Marigold (Calendula officinalis)’ greatly helped us understand the beneficial effects of Calendula, which we utilize today. Dogs get excited and all too often have clumsy accidents, from running into barbed wire, to sprinting on your freshly cleaned, slippery kitchen floor. Fortunately, calendula acts as a catalyst to healing by stimulating fibroblastic activity. As an added bonus, it comes equipped with antimicrobial properties, which play an essential role in preventing further infection.

 

It is simple to apply, as it can be made into a tea or can be administered directly as an ointment. Calendula salve is also a fantastic option for treating insect bites and rashes. More on how to apply calendula to your dogs ailments can be found further below.

 

Anti-inflammatory

 

Dogs, much like humans, suffer the pains associated with inflamed digestive and urinary tracts. But, calendula again comes to the rescue. From an article written by Dr. D. Mehrabani we know calendula has strong links to the mucous membranes, therefore, it can be administered to greatly relieve internal inflammations. It even goes one step further by aiding in lymphatic drainage.

 

When dealing with internal problems, owners should resist administering strong medication, as the long-term damage to your dog can be substantial. However, if you have a serious concern about your dog’s health, you should always consult a vet. The vet will be able to give you professional advice on the best course of treatment and will be able to discuss the benefits of calendula in detail with you.

 

How to Administer Calendula

 

You can apply calendula in a number of straightforward ways. For use in a tea, simply put a couple of tablespoons of the dried herb in a cup of boiling hot water. Once it has steeped and cooled, strain the calendula and place it into a spray bottle. Apply the spray as needed to your dog’s wound, itch or rash. Or alternatively, apply the mixture to a cloth and gently rub it into the affected area.

 

If your dog is suffering with digestive or urinary tract issues, or any other internal problems, you can apply the calendula by adding the already made tea mixture to your dog’s food. Simply add several drops to each meal. Calendula is a natural and safe remedy that can easily be administered at home. However, if your dog is pregnant, you should avoid mixing it in with their food and allowing them to digest it. If you have any concerns about whether to administer calendula and how, consult a vet for guidance.

 

The Calendula Conclusion

 

Calendula is becoming an increasingly popular herb used to combat a range of dog ailments. This is for good reason, as you have seen there is a growing amount of research emphasising its benefits. It is also readily accessible, affordable and straightforward to rustle up and administer. Before turning to strong chemicals and medication to treat your dog, it is worth considering the benefits associated with calendula. It’s a risk free, natural, and effective home remedy.