Herbal Wisdom

Graveyards always gave me the creeps as a kid.

Although I was told the spirits of the deceased were not there, everyone was always so very solemn and quiet I was not convinced they believed this themselves.

It seemed to me they must be afraid of something residing there.

I got the impression that death must be something very terrible and frightening.

What a big surprise to see the cemeteries in Mexico! They actually appear festive, with their bright decorations and fresh flowers. Those visiting seem very comfortable and at home. There was none of the, "hush, be very quiet" that I was familiar with.

La Dia de Los Muertos, or the day of the dead, is an ancient Aztec holiday still celebrated today. On this day the dead return to visit their families. Graves and altars are decorated with the bright orangy-yellow ‘flowers of the dead'. Traditionally Marigolds were used. After they were introduced by Europe, Calendulas, which were larger, also were frequently used. The families spend the day picnicking in the cemetery, near the headstones of their loved ones. This is a very festive and joyous event; a time of celebration with much laughter and socializing with neighbors. The petals of the flowers are then left as a trail to mark the way from the grave to the home. At the home altar, food, drink, and other favorites of the family member are left for them to enjoy.

Calendula (calendula officinalis) or pot marigold, originates in the old world. Marigolds (tagetes species) are from the new world. These flowers have much more in common than just their sunny appearance. Both ‘worlds' held these flowers as one of their most sacred.

Calendula is associated with the sun because of its radiant golden color and the way it turns its head to follow it. The ancient Greeks also considered it to be a flower representing death. Perhaps this was because of the way the sun appears to die each night and is reborn each morning.

The word calendula has the same root as the word calendar because in ancient Rome, it was believed that the calendula would bloom on the first day of every month.

In India, the flowers can be seen everywhere, strung into garlands and draped on sacred statues and cows.

Calendula are annuals which can be grown in full sun, from zones 3-9. They are easily grown by either starting indoors in the spring and setting out as soon as the soil can be worked or sown directly outdoors. They grow about one to two feet tall. Pinch away old blooms and this plant will bloom all summer long until hard frost.

Calendula has long been used to heal wounds, sunburn, inflammation, and chapped skin. When my children were babies, I found calendula cream to work better than anything else for diaper rash.

An infusion (just like making tea) of calendula petals can be cooled and used as a skin rinse or to brighten light colored hair. Here is a recipe for one of my family's favorite soaps. This soap is very mild and soothing for irritated skin.

Simple Calendula and Oatmeal Soap

• 1 pound glycerin soap base
• 1/8 cup finely ground oatmeal
• 1/4 cup dried calendula petals
• yellow food coloring, optional

*Use your food processor to finely grind the oatmeal. Cut the soap into 1" chunks. If using a microwave, place chunks in a microwave-safe bowl or measuring cup. Heat for 30 seconds, then in 10-second intervals, stirring between until soap has just melted. If using the stovetop, melt in a double boiler (with water beneath). Soap will be very hot. Add the calendula and oatmeal. Stir. If more color is desired, slowly add coloring, drop by drop, until desired shade is achieved. Keep stirring until soap starts to set. Spoon soap into molds or small containers. Cool about 4 hours. Putting molds into the freezer for 30 minutes can help the bars pop out more easily. Air-dry the bars overnight.

Calendula petals have been ground and used as a ‘poor-man's saffron' for centuries. The color will look like saffron, but the flavor is not the same. Calendula has a much stronger, spicy flavor. The flowers make a beautiful garnish. Toss fresh petals on top of potato soup, in a salad or over green beans. Try mixing them with cream cheese and serve on nasturtium flowers.

Calendula Rice

• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 1 cup rice (long-grained, basmati or brown)
• 1 Tablespoon butter
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup calendula petals
• 1 cup water
• salt to taste

Heat broth and water until boiling. While the water and broth are heating, in a separate pan, melt the butter and add the onions, stirring until they become translucent. Add the rice and stir until it begins to become translucent. Pour in the boiling broth. Add the salt. If using dried calendula petals, add now, stir, and cover pan. Lower the heat and simmer until rice is tender. If using fresh petals, toss them in after the rice has cooked.

One of the earliest magical uses for calendula was to help identify a thief. By placing calendula under the pillow of the victim, they would see the thief and their property in their dreams.

Other uses are in spell casting or rituals, to keep evil at bay. For protection while sleeping, place some under your bed.

Calendula has long been used to comfort the grieving. Like the sun, these flowers serve as a reminder that after darkness, again comes the light.

Disclaimer: Please consult with a qualified health care professional before using any herbs for medicinal use.

By Victoria Betson