Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract
Calendula
Genuinely relevant for some people, or depends on dose and pH.
Also written as: Marigold Extract · Pot Marigold · Hydrolyzed Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract
What it is
An extract of pot marigold flowers, rich in triterpenoid saponins, carotenoids and flavonoids. It has been used for centuries on chapped and irritated skin and remains a favourite in natural and baby-care formulations. Like chamomile, it belongs to the Asteraceae family.
What it does well
Comforts dry, chapped or irritated skin
Long-standing traditional use and small studies support a soothing, mildly anti-inflammatory effect. Robust modern trials in cosmetic use are limited.
Traditional use
Worth knowing
Contact allergy in people sensitive to Asteraceae plants
Calendula contains sesquiterpene lactones and is a documented, if uncommon, contact allergen with cross-reactivity to other daisy-family plants.
Matters most toAnyone with known Compositae/Asteraceae allergy or a past reaction to chamomile, arnica or ragweed.
Where the EU stands
No specific restriction
No EU concentration limit or annex restriction. Listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient database with skin-conditioning and perfuming functions.
