What is marigold?

Marigold is an annual herb with pale-green leaves and golden yellow or orange flowers. The marigold produces flowers from the beginning of summer until frost. The flowers have a strong but rather unpleasant odor.

Parts used

Flowers and leaves of the marigold plant are used. The marigold flowers should be dried in a well ventilated dry place in the shade.

Phytochemicals

These are typical phytochemicals found in marigold: cadinol, carotenoids, isorhamnetin, saponins, triterpenes, sesquiterpenoids, scopoletin, flavonoids, quercetin, kaempferol.

Benefits of marigold

Marigold has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. The phytochemicals saponins, flavonoids and triterpenes are responsible for this anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action of marigold. Marigold is mainly used externally to treat bruises, wounds, eczema, skin disorders, haemorrhoids and burns. Rubbing marigold flowers against a skin affected by a wasp or bee sting will help to ease the pain and swelling. Juice of the marigold is used to remove warts.

Marigold is used internally to treat gastric ulcer and infections of mouth and throat. Drinking marigold tea or eating marigold flowers or leaves improves digestion by stimulation of bile production. Ingestion of marigold helps to cure menstrual cramps, liver disease and constipation.

Other facts

Marigold originates from south Europe. Marigold is cultivated in many gardens as decoration, as cut flowers and as herb. In the past, marigold flowers were used to colour cheese. Marigold leaves and flowers are eatable and the flowers are used to decorate food dishes.

Other names