One of the most popular names for Calendula is pot marigold. You may have heard of marigolds before, and although these two are related, they are completely different plants. The pot refers to a pot of soup or stew, as calendula was commonly used for culinary purposes, while the common marigold was not. Calendula petals have also historically been used in biscuits, pudding and oatmeal.

Calendula flowers are full of a yellow resin that will make your hands sticky and yellow after picking. This resin is full of carotenoids which is the same compound that makes carrots orange and is beneficial for eye health. Calendula is used for skin irritations inside and out, meaning it can be used on the skin as well as eaten raw or cooked.