One of the most versatile herbs, calendula is popular as a cheerful cottage garden flower; for its use in cosmetic and culinary recipes; as a dye plant and for its many healing properties.
     As this hardy annual seems to be in flower continuously, it attracted a botanic name which reflects the belief that it was always in bloom on the first day of each month.
     The regular supply of petals and young leaves contributed to its frequent use. Ancient Egyptians valued it a rejuvenating herb. Hindus used it to decorate temple altars and Persians and Greeks garnished and flavored food with its golden petals.
     It is a soothing antiseptic and an excellent skin healer. Use calendula flowers in massage oils and salves to soften skin. Makes a conditioner for oily hair and give hair body.
     Add fresh petals to salads and sprinkle over green vegetables. Use dried petals for coloring cooked rice.

     Some good books to read on herbs are Your Backyard Herb Garden, Rodale Organic Gardening Basics Herbs, and RD Home Handbooks Herbs.