Teaching plant of the Aztec love goddess Xochiquetzal
The calendula, a member of the daisy family, is usually an annual, growing to about 30 to 50 cm tall, with branched, hairy, light green stems and hairy, oblong leaves. Its yellow-orange flowers bloom throughout the summer, from June until the first frosts. It was the symbol of the Aztec goddess of love, Xochiquetzal. Through the calendula, Xochiquetzal taught her people the message of the eternal cycle of life. The Aztec women thus learned about the flow of endless life and the interconnectedness of all things. In the Middle Ages and in all ancient cultures, the calendula was popular as a dye, medicinal herb, spice, and even a magical plant. To make calendula tea, pour boiling water over a heaped teaspoon of blossoms and let it steep for five to ten minutes. A cup in the morning and evening calms the nerves and promotes restful sleep. The tea promotes relaxation and is also beneficial for the kidneys, liver, and gallbladder. Due to its antispasmodic properties, calendula tea can also alleviate menstrual discomfort and period cramps. A slightly stronger tea is excellent for gargling to treat mouth inflammations. Fresh, young leaves make a pleasantly tangy addition to salads.
Natural Habitat: Calendula is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region. It found its way into monastery and farm gardens in Northern Europe from the 12th century onwards.
