Marigolds are versatile and colorful plants that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also hold cultural, culinary, and potential medicinal value. Their bright blooms and adaptability make them a beloved addition to many gardens and landscapes.
Marigolds are sometimes used in cooking for their aromatic leaves and petals, adding a peppery flavor to salads, soups, and stews. Additionally, marigolds have been used in traditional medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiseptic properties.
PARTS OF THE PLANT USED: flowers, entire flowers, not just petals
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS:
caratenoides: Neoxanthin, Luteoxanthin, Lycopene, Lutein, Beta-carotene
flavonides: isoquercitrin, narcissin, rutin
saponins
triterpenoids
chlorogenic acid
volatile oils
polysaccharides
PREPARATIONS: tea, macerate, extract (tincture or glycerite), ointments, creams
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES of Marigold (Calendula)
HEALTH BENEFITS OF MARIGOLD (Calendula):
topical:
for dry, chapped, and sensitive skin, lips
eczema, reddened skin
heavy and tired legs, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids
improves skin elasticity and makes skin firm and more resistant to mechanical damage
erythema, dermatosis, acne, venous leg ulcer, and hyperkeratosis
skin injuries and sunburns
preventing radiotherapy-induced dermatitis
faster wound healing: from cuts, scrapes, road rashes to lacerations, puncture wounds
less redness, less swelling, prevents infection
best for wounds that are swollen, puffy, red, inflamed, and filled with pus and fluids
works on a deeper level
prevent excessive scar formation
bacterial vaginosis (vaginal inflammation)
diaper rash
orally (per os)
against abdominal swelling, stomach, and liver conditions
liver detoxification, lower liver enzyme levels → good in combination with Dandelion root, Artichoke leaf, Greater Celandine, Oregon Grape root
increasing production of bile and its secretion by the gallbladder → beneficial for the metabolism and digestion of fats and oils
treat menstrual irregularities, PMS, relieve painful menstruation, dysmenorrhea
colds and pharyngitis
used for swollen and painful lymph nodes
used for gargles, against mouth and throat inflammations
cosmetic, food coloring → orange hue (cheese, bread, soups,…)
dye fabrics, hair
How does Marigold (Calendula) work?
Triterpenes:
bitter taste
liver, gallbladder, digestive system, draining property on the fluids of the body
responsible for the inflammation-modulating properties along with the flavonoids
Flavonoids:
the protective effect upon the vasculature, reduce heat, inflammation, and generally improve their elasticity and tone
antioxidant protection
wound healing
Polysaccharides:
immune tonic properties
soothing and slightly demulcent effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa
Carotenoid:
wound healing
CAREFUL
relatively mild and safe plant for internal consumption
avoided for internal use during pregnancy
topical use during pregnancy on the other hand is acceptable
allergic to plants of the Asteraceae family, careful
no documented herb-drug interactions with Calendula
