The marigold – a pretty, all-purpose plant with a wide range of medicinal effects. All of them made possible by the essential oils and resins trapped in the bright yellow flowers.
Marigold for medicinal use
The main medicinal applications of marigold are skin conditions of all kinds, including contusions, bruises and varicose veins. Minor skin injuries and inflammation can also be successfully treated. Marigold ointment promotes wound healing for eczema and sunburns. The fresh flowers must be preserved in olive oil and then stored in a cool and dark place. After three weeks, the filtered oil can be mixed with wax to make the ointment. Decanted into a jar, the ointment can set and will now last several months.
The flowers lend a dash of color to many recipes, while adding a mild flavor to drinks, soups and pesto. The food industry uses marigold as a natural dye to give cheese and butter a more appealing yellow. The dried flowers are also put in certain teas to make them look more attractive. One culinary delight that is sure to surprise is fried marigold. Dip the flowers in batter sweetened with honey, then deep-fry until golden brown. The crispy titbits are served as finger food or in summer salads.
Marigold tea has many uses. Drunk three times a day, it alleviates cramps and aids digestion. It will also bring relief for nausea, stomach ulcers and menstrual discomfort. Tincture of marigold eases headaches and can help to facilitate sleep. The tea can be also used in cold compresses and baths as an anti-inflammatory and relaxant.
Although marigold has been widely studied in alternative medicine, its exact place of origin is still unknown. But one thing is certain, today it is a truly European plant. A low-maintenance, long blooming beauty – what’s not to like? No wonder then that it’s cultivated all over the continent. The marigold graces us with its presence for only one year. But, accommodating as it is, it sows itself for the coming year, provided that it stays in the garden until seed maturity. The characteristic curved seeds look like tiny semi-circles. The seeds have small hooks that cling to the fur of animals and thus allow them to get a lift through the garden world – multiplication by hitchhiking.
Marigold’s ability to help treat wounds is believed to be due to stimulation of epithelial cell production (the cells that make up the outer surface of the body), mostly as a result of the presence of glycoproteins and nucleoproteins. It’s also linked to increased cell turnover and improved collagen metabolism stimulation.
Natural Antiseptic/Anti-Inflammatory
Used during First World War and the American Civil War as an antiseptic for wounds, the main compounds within Calendula are the triterpenoids, which are claimed to be the most important anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous (preventing swelling) components within the plant.
Another well-researched use of Marigold extract is applying it in drop form to the inside of the ear canal to help treat bacterial ear infections and decrease pain. It has been found that these drops can lower inner-ear swelling and inflammation within just a couple of days of use.
Antioxidant
Calendula oil is an excellent antioxidant source. This beautiful orange and yellow oil is rich in carotenes and carotenoids – the compounds responsible for the plant’s radiant colour. These phytochemicals are pre-cursors to the production of antioxidant Vitamin A.
Conjunctivitis/Eye Inflammation
Research has found that Calendula extract is effective in the treatment of conjunctivitis and other ocular inflammatory conditions. The extract demonstrates antibacterial, anti-viral, antifungal and immuno-stimulating properties that were shown to reduce eye infections. The vision is also protected by these extracts, guarding the delicate tissues of the eye from UV and oxidative damage.
Sore Throat/Mouth Ulcers
Due to its anti-microbial and antiseptic qualities, Marigold is an effective remedy for sore throats, gingivitis, tonsillitis and mouth ulcers. Gargling with Marigold tea will help to soothe the mucus membranes of the throat whilst easing the pain.
https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/natural-health-guide/benefits/marigold
