Calendula gel is a gel make from calendula extract, which is obtained from a flower known as the pot marigold. This gel has some anti-inflammatory properties, and it is often used to heal various skin problems and injuries. Some individuals use it to reduce the redness and swelling of acne, for instance, and it can also be applied to cuts and abrasions to promote healing. Calendula gel can also minimize sunburn pain, and relieve itching.
The genus Calendula is native to parts of the Mediterranean and the surrounding areas. It is a member of the Asteraceae, or daisy, family, and it includes several species of flowers, including C. officinalis, or pot marigold, a popular garden plant. Calendula extract and calendula oil have been used medicinally for decades, and these are believed to be anti-inflammatory and mild topical pain relievers. Calendula gel is a popular calendula product, but other calendula products are also available, including salves, ointments, creams, shampoos, and body washes.
Calendula gel is sometimes recommended as a natural remedy for acne. Applying a thin layer of this gel to breakouts can help reduce redness and swelling. It will also help promote healing and prevent scars.
Abrasions, such as cuts and scrapes, may also benefit from calendula gel. This gel can be applied a few ties a day. Along with promoting healing, this gel is also an antiseptic and it may help prevent infection in some cases. Due to its mild pain-relieving attributes, it can also ease the discomfort of fresh abrasions.
Calendula gel is also often sold as a burn remedy. This gel may be particularly helpful for painful sunburns. The gel can be applied to the sunburned skin after a cool shower or bath. It can also help hydrate the skin, making it feel less tight after a sunburn.
Since it very hydrating, calendula gel can also be used on very dry skin. This plant extract can help rehydrate the tissue, making it less likely to flake. It should be applied several times a day to dry skin areas, including the knees, elbows, and feet.
Some individuals also use calendula gel to relieve itching. It can be applied safely to most rashes, including eczema and other types of dermatitis. This gel may also help relieve itching and discomfort associated with diaper rash, athlete's foot, chickenpox, poison ivy, and insect bites. Calendula can usually be applied to the area as often as necessary.
