Marigold is a medicinal plant used to help treat burns and skin inflammation. It may also help protect the liver, regulate blood sugar levels, and boost the immune system.
This plant, also known as pot marigold, gold bloom, golden daisy, or garden marigold, has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, healing, liver-protective, and antioxidant properties.
The scientific name for marigold is Calendula officinalis. It can be purchased at health food stores, compounding pharmacies, or farmer’s markets, and is typically used as a tea, tincture, or ointment as directed by a doctor or herbalist.
Health benefits
Thanks to its properties, marigold offers several health benefits, including:
1. Promoting wound healing
Marigold is best known for its wound healing properties, and many studies have confirmed its positive effects in treating a variety of wounds, from cuts to burns.
This benefit appears to be linked to its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and antimicrobial action. These effects not only reduce pain and swelling but also help prevent the growth of microorganisms.
Some studies also show that marigold improves blood circulation to the wounded area and stimulates collagen production—both essential factors for proper healing.
2. Protecting the liver
Animal studies suggest that alcohol-based marigold extracts may help protect liver cells from damage caused by certain medications, especially acetaminophen.
3. Fighting skin infections and inflammation
In addition to supporting healing, marigold can be used to complement the treatment of infected wounds, acne, and eczema. Its strong antimicrobial action helps fight off fungi, bacteria, and parasites.
Cold marigold tea, for example, can be used to clean wounds.
4. Regulating blood sugar levels
Marigold flowers contain compounds that may improve the body’s sensitivity to insulin, helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Using marigold in combination with oral antidiabetic medications may also enhance their effects and assist with blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
5. Relieving mucosal inflammation
Due to its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and healing effects, marigold may help reduce inflammation in the mouth, such as canker sores or gingivitis, as well as other mucous membranes in the body.
In some cultures, marigold tea is also used to relieve symptoms of gastric problems, although there is limited scientific research on this effect.
6. Strengthening the immune system
Marigold is rich in antioxidants like alkaloids, carotenoids, and flavonoids, which help eliminate free radicals and support immune function.
Laboratory studies have also shown that water-based marigold extracts may boost lymphocyte activity, a key part of the immune system.
7. Preventing tooth decay
Marigold may help prevent cavities due to its antibacterial action against Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium commonly found in the mouth that contributes to tooth decay.
Some mouthwashes contain Calendula officinalis to reduce plaque buildup and prevent gum irritation.
Marigold also has antifungal activity against Candida albicans, a fungus that can cause oral thrush.
How to use marigold
The most commonly used part of the marigold plant is its dried flowers, which can be used to prepare teas, infusions, baths, ointments, poultices, or tinctures.
Popular home remedies include:
1. Marigold tea
Marigold tea can be used to regulate blood sugar, support immune function, or protect the liver.
Ingredients:
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10 to 15 grams of dried marigold flowers
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1 liter (about 4 cups) of water
Instructions:
Boil the water and remove from heat. Add the marigold flowers, cover, and let steep for about 5 minutes.
Strain and drink up to 3 times a day.
You can also use gauze soaked in the tea to clean skin wounds.
2. Marigold poultice
A marigold poultice can be applied to the skin to treat wounds, ulcers, acne, or burns, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Ingredients:
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1 to 2 teaspoons of dried marigold flowers
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150 mL of boiling water
Instructions:
Add the marigold flowers to the boiling water and steep for 5 minutes. Let cool, strain, and soak a clean, dry compress (like gauze or cotton) in the infusion.
Apply the compress to the affected area 2 to 3 times per day and leave it on for 30 minutes.
3. Marigold mouth rinse
A warm marigold tea can be used as a mouth rinse to relieve symptoms of canker sores or gingivitis.
Swish the tea in the mouth for 30 seconds and repeat 3 to 5 times. Spit it out after rinsing.
4. Marigold tincture
Marigold tincture can be taken orally, typically at a dose of 20 to 40 drops diluted in water, up to 3 times a day, or as advised by a healthcare provider or herbalist.
For topical use, dilute about 30 drops in half a cup of warm water. Soak a clean, dry compress and apply it to the affected skin.
5. Marigold oil
Marigold oil is available at pharmacies and health food stores. It can be applied to the skin to moisturize, relieve itching or irritation, or soothe insect bites.
Apply a few drops to your hand and gently massage the oil into the affected area.
6. Marigold ointment
Marigold ointment can be used to treat first-degree burns, sunburns, wounds, insect bites, or even diaper rash in babies.
Apply the ointment 2 to 3 times a day to the affected area. If possible, massage gently to help with absorption.
To prevent diaper rash, apply a layer of marigold ointment to the diaper area after cleaning the baby’s skin, during each diaper change.
This ointment is available at some pharmacies and health stores under names like Weleda Baby Calendula. These formulas may also contain other natural ingredients.
Possible side effects
Although rare, some people may experience allergic skin reactions such as redness, swelling, or itching. If this happens, rinse the skin with cold water to remove the substance.
Who should avoid marigold
Marigold should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to the lack of studies confirming its safety.
Children under 6 years old should not take marigold tea, apply poultices, use mouth rinses, or take tinctures made from the plant.
Because it contains alcohol, marigold tincture should be avoided by people undergoing treatment for alcohol use disorder or taking disulfiram.