Calendula

This bright and sunny flower is as beautiful as it is useful. Calendula is used in herbal medicine to heal a variety of conditions. Considered a ?vulnerary,? or a wound healer, calendula can be applied topically, usually in the form of an infused oil, to anything from chapped and chafed skin to bruises and sore muscles. It is also known to support the lymphatic system and to have antibiotic properties. One can make a tea, an alcohol extraction, or use the beautiful and peppery yellow and orange petals in a salad.