Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Calendula officinalis (marigold) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly for its anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and mild analgesic properties. In the context of afterbirth pain—discomfort or cramping often felt by women postpartum as the uterus contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size—calendula has been used in some traditional European and folk medicine practices. These uses often involve topical applications (such as ointments or sitz baths) or, less commonly, internal administration as teas or tinctures. The rationale is largely based on calendula’s ability to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation, which could theoretically help soothe perineal discomfort and minor wounds resulting from childbirth.

However, there is no robust clinical evidence specifically supporting calendula for the management of afterbirth pain (i.e., the visceral uterine cramps themselves). Most studies focus on calendula’s effects on skin healing (such as for minor cuts, burns, or episiotomies) rather than on internal pain or uterine cramping. While some users and herbalists report anecdotal benefit, scientific validation for this particular indication is lacking. Therefore, the justification for calendula’s use in afterbirth pain is primarily traditional, with a low evidence rating due to the absence of direct studies or clinical trials addressing this specific postpartum symptom.

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