Calendula in modern medicine: Advancements in wound healing and drug delivery applications
Ovinuchi Ejiohuo, Samson O. Folami, Abdulkadir Yusif Maigoro
Abstract
Calendula, commonly known as marigold, is a plant of the Asteraceae family with a rich history of medicinal use. This plant possesses a variety of bioactive compounds, including steroids, terpenoids, triterpenoids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and essential oils. These compounds confer significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties to Calendula, making it a promising candidate for treating various skin conditions, particularly skin wounds. Calendula extracts hold potential applications in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Notably, these extracts can be utilized in drug delivery systems as natural biomaterials, offering benefits for various health conditions. This review aims to provide an updated synthesis of the medical and pharmacological uses of Calendula, with a focus on its role in wound healing and drug delivery systems. It addresses the limitations of using Calendula's active compounds, offering insights for future research and application.