Calendula (Calendula officinalis) vs Licorice

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Licorice

About

Calendula (Calendula officinalis), with its bright orange daisy-like flowers, is among the most versatile herbs in Western herbal medicine. Its petals contain antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and vulnerary properties, making it excellent for speeding tissue repair in wounds, burns, bruises, and various skin irritations. Calendula is also used internally for gastrointestinal inflammation (e.g., Crohn’s disease, colitis, gastritis).

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a tall, woody-stemmed perennial reaching about 6½ ft (2 m), with dark green leaves and cream-to-mauve pea-like flowers. Its root, sweetened by glycyrrhizic acid (up to 50 times sweeter than sugar), has a powerful anti-inflammatory action, offering relief in respiratory, digestive, and even arthritic conditions. Licorice is widely used in Chinese, European, and Western herbal medicine.

Safety & precautions

Internal Use & Pregnancy: Not advised during pregnancy when taken internally. Topical Use: Generally safe; rare cases of allergic skin reactions may occur. General Note: Calendula has a mild estrogenic effect and may influence menstruation.

Overuse & High Blood Pressure: Licorice can cause fluid retention, sodium retention, and potassium depletion, leading to edema, increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, or a slower heartbeat. Long-Term Use: Monitor for dizziness or headaches, early signs of overuse. Digestion & Medication Interactions: Avoid large doses if taking digitalis or having hypertension; consult a healthcare professional if pregnant. Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice (DGL): Lacks glycyrrhizin and is safer for extended use.

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