Marigold, commonly known as calendula, has medicinal properties that can treat fevers, bowel disorders, and a number of skin disorders. Because of its antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties, marigold has been used for ages to treat skin injuries, wounds, and sprains, conjunctivitis, eczema, gastritis, blepharitis etc. Also, marigold has a number of flavonoids that protect the body from damage from oxidation that suppresses immune function.

The marigold is also used in preparation of skin care and cosmetic products, food products and as a colorant in fabrics. This plant, which is found in the Mediterranean countries, is widely grown as a herbal medicine in Eastern Europe and Latin America and as an ornamental plant in North America and most if Europe.

Skin Care

Marigold has a superior antiseptic and antibacterial property which makes it a natural remedy for skin allergies, injuries and wounds. It is extensively used to treat skin problems such as eczema, herpes, gingivitis, varicose veins, and athlete’s foot. It is also considered useful for preventing tetanus and gangrene, reducing inflammation around wounds and healing tissues as it is also a rich and natural source of iodine and other chemicals.

Marigold is used in skin ointments for treating sunburn, insect bites, diaper or nappy rash in babies, and in cosmetics for skin toning and reducing wrinkles. It is also used for treating ringworm, Candida and athlete’s foot because of its anti-fungal properties.

Bowel and Digestive Care

Because of its powerful anti-inflammatory qualities, it acts effectively on reducing the inflammation of bowel, and calms the digestive system . According to a study in Germany, marigold is effective in preventing inflammation and swelling in the stomach lining, which is caused by specific hormonal reactions. Because of its anti-fungal properties, this herb is also considered effective to prevent an inflammatory and diverticulitis pelvic disease and limits the growth of yeast in the bowel.

Also, marigold can help in treating hepatitis by increasing the flow of bile to the liver, further promoting digestion.

Others

Other health benefits of marigold are as follows.

– It acts as a powerful antispasmodic and a painkiller and is used for treating menstrual cramps and to alleviate the pain caused by an ulcer.

– Studies indicate that it can aid a healthy heart by reducing blood pressure.

– This can be a soothing agent to heal a sore body – mucous membranes and tissues like stomach, liver, colon and gums after an operation.

– Research has shown that marigold can also have significant effect on inhibiting the HIV-1 virus.

– It also helps in relieving symptoms of menopause and colitis

– Because of its flavonoid content is used in gargles and mouthwashes to cure sore throat and mouth ulcers

– It is used in treating hemorrhoids.

– It is used to break fever by inducing perspiration.

– It is also used for reducing inflammation and redness in case of conjunctivitis and other eye allergies

Precautions

Care should be taken when consuming marigold with respect to the dosage. Pregnant women should avoid taking it internally as it can act as a sedative and cause reactions when taken with another medicine. Although it is used for skin disorders, you should ideally take a patch test to prevent allergic reactions.

Author Bio: Teisha Mahabir specializes in writing articles about health, diet, longevity and health specialists like Brenda Rusnak. Brenda Rusnak is a health care specialist who writes about health-aging and prevention. For more information about healthy-aging and Brenda Rusnak, check her out on Active Health Services.

Category: Medicines and Remedies
Keywords: medicinal,properties,of,marigold,health,benefits,longevity