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topical · for minor cuts, scrapes & wounds

Calendula Officinalis Topical Extract

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

An RCT by Giostri et al. (Tissue Barriers, 2022; n=40) found standardised calendula extract healed acute hand wounds significantly faster than mineral oil: mean epithelialisation time 8.6 days vs 13.2 days (p<0.05), with a wound closure speed of 9.5%/day vs 6.2%/day.$10-$25 per tube

How to use

Clean the wound and surrounding skin. Apply a thin layer of calendula cream, gel, or ointment (look for standardised Calendula officinalis extract, minimum 2% flavonoids) directly to the wound and a 1 cm margin of surrounding skin. Cover with a light sterile dressing. Apply 2-3 times daily after cleaning. A separate RCT also supports its use on post-surgical incision wounds (Jahdi et al., 2018) applied every 12 hours.

How it works

Calendula contains triterpenoids, flavonoids (especially isorhamnetin and quercetin derivatives), and polysaccharides that exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mild antimicrobial effects on wounded tissue. It promotes fibroblast proliferation and new collagen synthesis, accelerating the proliferative phase of wound healing.

Where to buy

Boiron Calendula Cream, Weleda Calendula Wound Care Spray, Herb Pharm Calendula Oil - available at Whole Foods, iHerb, Vitacost, and Amazon. Choose products that list Calendula officinalis flower extract as an active ingredient.

Typical cost: $10-$25 per tube

Safety notes

Avoid if allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family (ragweed, chrysanthemums, daisies, marigolds) as cross-reactivity is possible. Do not use on deep or infected wounds - seek medical care. Discontinue and consult a doctor if redness, swelling, or rash worsens after application. Not studied in pregnancy - avoid during first trimester. Keep away from eyes.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Giostri et al., Calendula extract for acute hand wounds, Tissue Barriers, 2022

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.