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Marigold Flower (Herb) - Uses And Side Effects

Marigold's botanical name, Calendula officinalis, reflects the fact that the plant seems to be in bloom the first day of each calendar month. Herbal components come from the small, bright yellow-orange flower heads of C. officinalis. Researchers have also examined the shoots and leaves for active compounds.

An annual, this plant is native to southern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean and now grows in many parts of the United States and Canada. It probably originated in Egypt, where It was valued as a rejuvenating herb. Seeds sown in April, in any soil, in sunny, or half-sunny places germinate freely. They require no other cultivation but to keep them clean from weeds and to thin out where too close, leaving them 9 to 10 inches apart, so that their branches may have room to spread. The plants will begin to flower in June, and continue flowering until the frost kills them. They will increase from year to year, if allowed to seed themselves. The seeds ripen in August and September, and if permitted to scatter will furnish a supply of young plants in the spring.

Common doses of marigold

Marigold comes as an ointment of 5% flower extract, an infusion, and a mouthwash. Some experts recommend the following doses:

• As an ointment, apply to the skin.
• As a tincture or tea, take 1 to 4 milliliters orally daily.

Uses of marigold herb

• As an antiseptic
• As a skin treatment during aromatherapy
• Bedsores
• Chapped lips
• Leg ulcers
• Skin inflammation
• To aid digestion
• To promote skin healing
• Varicose veins

It has been asserted that a Marigold flower, rubbed on the affected part, is an admirable remedy for the pain and swelling caused by the sting of a wasp or bee. A lotion made from the flowers is most useful for sprains and wounds, and a water distilled from them is good for inflamed and sore eyes.

Side effects of marigold

Call your health care practitioner if you experience an allergic reaction when using marigold.

Interactions

Combining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Tell your health care practitioner about any prescription or nonprescription drugs you're taking.

Important points to remember

• Don't use marigold if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Don't confuse C. officinalis with other ornamental marigolds, such as Tagetes patula (French marigold), T. erecta (African marigold), or T. minuta (Inca marigold). Known for their ability to repel insects and earthworms, these plants are found in many vegetable gardens.
• Know that marigold carries a risk of allergic reactions.

What the research shows

Marigold has been used for centuries to aid skin healingapparently without causing problems. Although some animal tests support its healing and anti-inflammatory effects, the herb hasn't been tested on people. More research must be done to confirm other claims for marigold's medicinal uses.

Other names for marigold : -

Other names for marigold include calendula, garden marigold, and pot marigold.