'What does it do' is the wrong question to ask an herbalist. We think more along the lines of 'how can we be helped by Calendula' otherwise the plant becomes just another commodity, not an active part of healing.
Calendula can help with many cases of inflammation, it helps with some digestive problems too. Mostly, it's biggest benefit is that it can help build new capillary beds, making it a premiere herb for helping our bodies heal wounds and prevent infections. It can also help if our lymphatics are congested, helping shift wastes, especially in cases of injuries and infection when waste materials build up.
Speaking of waste, Calendula also aids our liver in its job of eliminating waste.
Wow! What a friend to have in our gardens.
I ask, not in service of reductionist preconceptions, but out of curiosity!
Thanks for your reply, dear Herbalist.
Perhaps I need to look out for some Calendula to add to my own garden.
No question 8s a bad one I just like to steer folks away from the idea that plants are here for humans