POT MARIGOLD (Calendula officinalis L.) – A POSITION IN CLASSICAL PHYTOTHERAPY AND NEWLY DOCUMENTED ACTIVITIES

Abstract

The flower (inflorescence, basket-type inflorescence) of marigold (Calendulae officinalis flos) is a well-known plant raw material in traditional phytomedicine. Noteworthy is its rich chemical composition, which is dominated by flavonoids and terpenoids. Terpenoids are mainly represented by specific for this species oleanolic acid derivatives: triterpenoid saponins – calendulosides A-H and triterpenoid glycosides, so-called calendulaglycosides A and B. The biological activity profiles of the raw material, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunostimulatory and antioxidant properties, determine its use especially in the treatment of dermatological diseases. Interestingly, recent scientific studies proved, in addition to spasmolitic, hypolipemic and antidiabetic properties, such heath promoting activity as cardioprotective, hepatoregenerative, pancreas regenerating, neuroprotective and even anticancer activities. Moreover, C. officinalis is used in cosmetology and food industry.