How Do I Choose the Best Calendula Cream?

Choosing the best calendula cream depends upon a history of skin allergies, budget, and what its being used for. Calendula cream may be helpful in treating eczema, minor skin irritations, acne, and diaper rash. In addition, it may also be helpful in relieving pain and inflammation of abrasions and scrapes. Calendula cream is derived from the calendula flower, which is commonly grown throughout the world. Another name for calendula is pot marigold, but bears no relation to the common marigold flower.

Calendula cream may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles because it can enhance the body's ability to make collagen. It can also help alleviate symptoms of conjunctivitis such as excessive tearing, redness, irritation, and pain. It is important to note, however, that conjunctivitis is often the result of a viral or bacterial infection. In these cases, a physician should be notified to determine the best treatment options instead of relying on calendula. Foregoing medical treatment for conjunctivitis may result in a prolonged infection and may even contribute to visual disturbances.

Some people find that gargling with a calendula preparation or tea can reduce the pain of a sore throat. Since calendula may be effective in treating inflammatory conditions, it may also help those with oral problems and infections of the gums. Because calendula petals are safe to eat, they are often used to enhance the beauty of dessert items and salads. They also contain antioxidants that may help stimulate the immune system and make it stronger.

Although calendula cream is typically considered safe, those prone to allergic reactions may want to avoid using it. Use on the skin can cause mild skin irritation such as burning, itching and redness. If these reactions occur, the product should be washed off and a physician should be notified. Pregnant women and those who are nursing shouldn't use calendula unless it is recommended by their doctors. Calendula and other herbal preparations may pass through a mother's breast milk and cause side effects in the baby.

Prior to using calendula cream, a patch test should be done to determine if the product will cause a reaction. In addition, calendula cream and other products containing calendula can be purchased at department store cosmetic counters. They can often be found at health food and nutrition outlets as well. People can make their own calendula oil by combining flower petals with cooking oil and letting the mixture steep for a few weeks to mature.