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Does Calendula Ointment Help Acne Scars?

Derived from a type of marigold flower, calendula ointment is often used for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial properties. Use it as a treatment for skin diseases and inflammation such as acne, acne scars and eczema, or to help heal wounds. It is even indicated as an alternative treatment for cancer.

  1. Healing Properties

    • The key ingredients in calendula are flavonoids. These plant-based antioxidants are believed to protect against free radicals, which cause cell damage. Flavonoids are found in fruits, vegetables, tea and red wine. They are known as potent antioxidants and as platelet inhibitors. What that means in layman's terms is that they help prevent diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

    Calendula Ointment Uses

    • Calendula ointment is most often used to heal dry skin and promote healing of wounds, burns, irritation and scrapes. It is used in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne vulgaris and eczema. In ointment form, it is used to moisturize the skin and help lessen the appearance of acne scars.

      As a rich source of flavonoids/polyphenols, calendula may help prevent diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

      As an anti-inflammatory, it may be helpful for inflammatory-type diseases such as to reduce arthritis pain or ear infection pain.

      Calendula is also used for bee stings, sunburn, warts, and cancer.

    Medical Evidence

    • According to Medline Plus (NIH.gov): "Most scientific evidence regarding (calendula's) effectiveness as a wound-healing agent is based on animal and laboratory study, while human research is virtually lacking" (see Reference 2). Based upon those studies, calendula may be indicated for radiation skin protection, reducing pain from ear infections, reducing skin inflammation, venous leg ulcers, and wound and burn healing.

    Conclusion

    • While there seems to be no medical evidence proving calendula ointment for acne scars is beneficial, it has been used for centuries for that condition, as well as for many other medical purposes.

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