Marigold Herbal Information
NAME
Marigold
LATIN NAME
Calendula officinalis
ALSO KNOWN AS
Marigold, garden marigold, holigold, Mary bud, pot marigold, Calendula
ORIGIN
Native of Southern Europe.
PARTS USED
Flowers, leaves.
TRADITIONAL HERBAL USES AND MEDICINAL PROPERTIES
Marigold is ideal for use in a detox program; it is also nature's skin healer. Its anti-inflammatory qualities make it a heal all and a definite contender for the first aid box.
It is good for:
Inflammation,
Bleeding,
Wounds,
Bruising,
Strains,
Minor burns,
Digestive inflammation,
Ulcers,
Gallbladder problems,
Indigestion.
It is also known to be good for regulating the menstrual cycle and bringing relief from heavy periods. Its anti-fungal qualities make it useful for gentle detoxification. It is such a gentle healer so it can be safely and effectively used for children's first aid and minor complaints.
FOLKLORE AND HISTORY
The name calendula comes from the latin Calendulae meaning throughout the months.
Although the old Saxon name "'ymbglidegold', means 'it turns with the sun'. They were also called Mary buds and associated with the Virgin Mary.
In the middle ages Marigolds symbolised jealousy. In the past, Calendula officinalis was used to colour cheese yellow (rather that than some of the chemicals used today!) It was called "poor man's saffron". In the 12th century,the herbalist Macer concluded that there would be an improvement in your eyesight just by looking at the plant. It was used as a treatment for smallpox and measles, in fact so much was grown in the Soviet Union that it became known as Russian penicillin.
The religious sect The Shakers in America believed they were an effective cure for gangrene.
CONSTITUENTS
Calendula contains flavonoids, triterpene saponins, and carotenoids.
TYPICAL PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE
Marigold Herbal Tincture
Take 1-4 mls up to 3 times per day.
Extraction Ratio 1:1.33
Alcohol Vol. 66%
Made with fresh herb
Marigold Flowers-
To make an infusion pour 1 cup of boiling water on to 1-2 teaspoons of the flowers,
and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to 3 times per day.
or as recommended by a herbal practitioner.
PRECAUTIONS
Except for the very rare person who is allergic to calendula and therefore should not use it, there are no known side effects or interactions. Not recommended during pregnancy.
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