Calendula for Dogs

Main Constituents

• Saponins, carotenoids, sterols, flavonoids, mucilage, and tocopherols
• Salicylic acid (an analgesic)

Medicinal Activities

• antimicrobial
• antifungal
• antibacterial
• antiviral
• astringent
• heals wounds
• liver stimulant

Common Uses in Dogs

Calendula is a "must-have" for our dog's herbal first-aid kit. It can be used for all types of open wounds.

Calendula salve is excellent for treating minor cuts, insect bites, and abrasions. Its brings soothing relief while its antimicrobial and wound-healing properties speed up the healing of the wound.

Infusions of the Calendula flowers can be used as a skin wash for different forms of skin problems, such as those caused by fleabites, eczema, and poison ivy.

Calendula can also be used as a poultice on sprains and bruises.

As an eye wash for conjunctivitis, try using a cooled water infusion of Calendula.

Internally, an infusion or tincture of Calendula can be used for the treatment of inflammation or ulceration of the digestive or urinary tracts.

Availability

A varieties of Calendula are available at nurseries everywhere. The flowers can be used to prepare water or oil infusion, tincture, poultice, salve, and ointment. References

J.A. Duke, The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Comprehensive Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing (Rodale Books, 2000).
R. Kidd, Dr. Kidd's Guide to Herbal Dog Care (Storey Publishing, 2000).
M.L. Wulff-Tilford and G.L. Tilford, Herbs for Pets (Bowtie Press, 1999).