Calendula Supercritical Extract
Also known as: marigold, pot marigold, golden flower, calendula, Ringelblume, Calendula officinalis
Overview
*Calendula officinalis*, commonly known as marigold, is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family celebrated for its medicinal properties. Primarily used in traditional medicine for its wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic effects, the supercritical CO2 extract of marigold enhances bioavailability and purity of bioactive constituents such as triterpenoid esters, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. This herbal extract has a rich history of application in wound care and skin health, with emerging research exploring its potential antitumoral effects. Studies to date have shown moderate development, particularly in its efficacy for wound healing, while further clinical trials are warranted to assess its innovative applications in oncology.
Benefits
Research indicates that *Calendula officinalis* extract offers various benefits. A systematic review encompassing 14 studies, comprising both animal and clinical trials, found that the extract significantly accelerates acute wound healing by promoting granulation tissue production and reducing inflammation, with moderate to high evidence quality. Furthermore, preliminary studies have suggested its antitumoral properties, particularly in inhibiting pancreatic cancer cell viability and inducing apoptosis. These findings present promising implications for populations suffering from skin conditions but highlight the necessity for further clinical validation.
How it works
The biological effects of *Calendula officinalis* extract are primarily linked to its modulation of cellular metabolism, particularly in cancer cells. By inhibiting mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and aerobic glycolysis, the extract diminishes ATP production, leading to increased autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which contributes to programmed cell death in malignancies. Moreover, supercritical extraction methods improve the bioavailability of active compounds, optimizing their interactions with metabolic pathways.
Side effects
*Calendula officinalis* extract is generally regarded as safe for topical use, with mild side effects occurring infrequently. Common adverse effects, reported in more than 5% of users, may include skin irritation or allergic reactions, while rare side effects (1-5%) can involve allergic contact dermatitis. Severe allergic reactions are uncommon (<1%). While there are no significant documented drug interactions, individuals with known allergies to the Asteraceae family should exercise caution and avoid usage. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should be cautious due to limited safety data in these populations.
Dosage
For topical applications, *Calendula officinalis* extract is typically utilized in concentrations between 2-5%. There is no well-established minimum effective dose for systemic applications, as primary usage is topical. For wound healing, it is recommended to apply the extract multiple times a day as needed, with flexibility based on the wound's condition. The supercritical CO2 extracts may provide superior bioavailability compared to traditional methods, and formulating into solid lipid nanoparticles is suggested to enhance absorption.
FAQs
Is *Calendula officinalis* safe to use?
It is generally safe for topical use; however, those with allergies to Asteraceae plants should avoid it.
How often should I apply *Calendula* extract for wound healing?
For wound healing, it is advisable to apply the extract multiple times a day as needed.
What benefits can I expect from using *Calendula* extract?
You can expect accelerated wound healing, reduced inflammation, and potential improvements in skin health.
Can *Calendula* replace medical treatment?
No, it should not replace medical treatment for severe wounds or cancers; consult healthcare professionals.
Research Sources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5647963/ – This systematic review evaluated 14 studies regarding the therapeutic effects of *Calendula officinalis* in wound healing, highlighting its efficacy in promoting granulation tissue and reducing inflammation. The review indicates that the extract is effective and provides moderate to high-quality evidence in support of its application in wound care.
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211184219300075 – Preliminary investigation into the antitumor properties of *Calendula officinalis* reveals promising results in inhibiting pancreatic cancer cell viability and inducing apoptosis. This research suggests potential innovative applications for *Calendula* extracts in oncology, though further clinical trials are necessary.