There are few high-quality clinical trials for calendula; therefore, it should be used with caution. There are few reports describing serious adverse reactions to calendula. However, allergic reactions and contact sensitization have been reported for other members of the daisy family (Asteraceae), to which calendula also belongs.[1] Additionally, a clinical trial that studied the effect of calendula versus metronidazole on bacterial vaginosis reported a greater occurrence of vaginal itching with the calendula preparation.[2]
What are calendula’s main drawbacks?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Calendula has few high-quality clinical trials supporting its use, so it should be approached with caution due to potential allergic reactions and contact sensitization. Additionally, a study indicated that calendula may cause more vaginal itching than metronidazole in treatment of bacterial vaginosis.