Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Marigold is a yellow flower related to asters and sunflowers. The plant gets its botanical name of Calendula from the Latin word that means "little calendar" or "little clock", a reference to the fact that the plant's bloom coincides with the new moon each month.
Calendula, also called pot marigold, is a member of the daisy family that is native to Europe and cultivated as an annual in cooler climates and as a perennial in warmer regions. It is a companion plant to other species in the garden that are affected by soil nematodes and those that benefit from the presence of pollen beetles.
Since the time of the ancient Romans and Greeks, calendula has been used to make a natural dye for cloth. A strong infusion (tea) of the flowers adds golden highlights to fair hair. The flowers are also fed to canaries to enhance the color of their feathers.
Although the ancients could not have known that calendula contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory carotenes, the herb has been used for centuries to make topical preparations to ease eczema, psoriasis, insect bites, abrasions and other irritations.
Aside from providing a mildly sweet and relaxing tea, a strong infusion of whole calendula flowers brightens and blends away gray in fair hair when used as a final rinse.
Origin: Egypt
Plant Part Used: flower
Storage Tips: Keep in an airtight container away from direct light and heat.
Appearance and Aroma: Sunny yellow petals with a light, fresh scent.
Cosmetic Uses: Use in infused oils, lip balms, salves, creams, lotions and hair and skin rinses. Excellent for making natural diaper rash creams and other products for babies and children.
Decorative Uses: Display in a bowl with other dried flowers and herbs.
Culinary Uses: Add to tea blends and to lend golden color to sauces and soups.
Flavor Profile: Citrus-like with a sharp finish. Pairs with many other herbs and flowers used in tea blends.
Household Uses: Use in herbal sachets for drawers and closets.
Industrial Uses: Calendula is used in the cosmetics and fragrance industries. It is also used in the food industry as a coloring agent for cheese and other foods.
Safety: Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by Canada Health or the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.