Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Marigold
The pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) belongs to the daisy family. It is named after the Old Saxon ymbglidegold - 'it turns with the sun'. This wonderful, rejuvenating herb is associated with energy, brightness, strength and harmony. It is said that to gaze at marigolds improves eyesight, cures headaches and uplifts the spirit. Try it and see.
An ancient medicinal herb
The marigold was used as a medicinal herb in the ancient Indian, Arabic, Greek, and Roman cultures. Its many healing properties include: antiseptic, anti fungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, astringent, alterative, styptic, cholagogue, vulnerary, emmenagogue, anti-tumour, regenerative and tonic. It is a gall bladder and liver stimulant, a lymphatic cleanser, and a tonic for the heart and immune system.
Skin conditions
Used both externally and internally in combination, marigold heals any damaged or inflamed skin, including cuts, burns, spots, eczema, cysts, fungal infections and impetigo.
It is particularly good for acne. Marigold tea drunk 3 times a day in combination with a healthy diet of fruit and vegetables, and an external wash of marigold infusion will soon clear the skin.
Marigold infusion or tincture is used to cure thrush infections, herpes, gingivitis, athlete's foot, and varicose veins. It is safe for infants and will cure nappy rash and cradle cap. Taken regularly, in combination with infused marigold massage oil, it will clear cellulite.
Lymphatic cleanser
Used internally Marigold clears the lymphatic system, treats inflamed lymph nodes and strengthens the immune system. It reduces fevers, swollen glands and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Menstrual imbalance
As an emmenagogue it stimulates the uterus and helps delayed or painful menstruation. An infusion or tincture of marigold petals will help menopausal problems and relieve anxiety.
Gastric and digestive disorders
As a cholagogue it relieves liver, gall bladder, gastric and digestive problems such as colitis, diverticulitis and hepatitis. Combined with Herb Robert or American cranesbill in a tea, 3-4 times a day, will cure gastric and duodenal ulcers. Marigold also combines well with Irish moss or slippery elm.
Marigold tea
Some say marigold tea should be made using the petals only, but it has more body and taste if the whole flower heads (fresh or dried) are used. The slight bitter taste is an important healing aspect of the herb. Adding a little honey or lemon juice can enhance the flavour. Use 1 teaspoon of chopped flower heads per cup.
External uses
Marigold infusion used as a wash or compress heals cuts, grazes, bruises, inflammation, fungal infections, stings and bites. A marigold compress will ease sprains, painful joints, and bruises. It soothes burns, scalds, chilblains, dry skin, and eczema. Marigold petals make excellent infused oils, creams, lotions, and moisturisers. Added to a warm bath (not hot) it relieves sunburn and stress.
The whole plant, not only the flowers, is useful in healing wounds and preventing infection. Crushed marigold leaves applied to minor cuts, grazes and scratches will control bleeding and prevent infection. Warts, corns and calluses can be treated with the sap of the stem.
Mouthwash
A marigold infusion makes an effective mouthwash and gargle for sore throats, gingivitis and mouth ulcers, and a wash to soothe inflamed eyes or conjunctivitis.
Culinary Colour
The petals and young leaves add colour and body to soups and salads. The petals are used as a substitute for Saffron, giving a yellow colour to rice, omelettes, cheese, milk deserts, cakes, and butter.
Caution: Marigold is not taken internally during pregnancy.
© Martha Magenta 2006.