Sold by weight. Calendula (Calendula officinalis), dried whole flower, Egypt. Also known as Maravilla, Souci, Pot Marigold, Golds and Ruddles. The carotenoid-rich yellow to orange petals of this annual daisy were once used to color butter, cheeses, and custards, to thicken soups, to add a pleasant, spicy taste to salads, and to substitute for expensive imported saffron. The petals also yield a dye for fabric, hair or toiletries. Wide-ranging medicinal claims have been made for its petals, but little research has tested these assertions. The petals have been found to be anti-inflammatory, however. Carotenoids provide the distinct yellow to orange of the petals (beta-carotene, lycopene, violaxanthin and lutein). The petals can be used whole or cut in toiletries such as scrubs, soaps or bath salts. The infused oil is highly recommended for dry, mature skin as well as for skin sores, diaper rash and sunburn. The infused oil may be applied directly on the skin or may be added to handcrafted soaps and toiletries. (Partial Source: The Big Book of Herbs, Arthur O. Tucker, Ph.D. and Thomas Debaggio, for sale on our site under “books”.)