There's Something About Marigolds
Yes...I giggled when I wrote the title to this blog post. I have a weird sense of humor! The medicinal plant we are going to talk about today is actually an annual. Marigolds! Up until this point, all of our medicinal plants have been perennials.
If you've been reading along in our blog, you probably know that I prefer perennials in my garden. Now not all perennials come up year after year...after year. Some actually do have a shelf life when the plant actually needs to be replaced. But annuals, as you may have guessed by their name, only grow once per year before new seeds or seedlings need to be planted.
There are different types of marigolds, and for medicinal purposes, it matters which ones are chosen as some varieties are not edible. If you're searching for seeds or at a nursery, be sure to search for calendula officinalis, or pot marigolds.
You're probably most familiar with French marigolds as they are readily available at most nurseries. Take a look at this picture. Even though this photo is only one variety of French marigold, you can see how it differs from calendula.
So why Marigolds (calendula officinalis)? There are a few reasons we wanted to have some marigolds in our garden. I would have to say that the number one reason we have marigolds in our garden is to keep away the critters. Bunnies and deer don't like the taste of marigolds, so this flower is often used as a deterrent.
Organic marigold seeds are relatively inexpensive, and you can often find flats of marigolds at your local nursery for a pretty good price and sometimes even on sale.
Marigolds come in many variations as well, most commonly in the yellow and orange color family. There are also variegated marigolds too that are super pretty as well.
Medical Research
Calendula's main uses are for dermatological and gastrointestinal use. The main attributes of this medicinal plant are its anti-inflammatory and antiedematous (prevents adema) properties.
We found some medical studies on the effects of Calendula that may be of interest to you:
Uses for Calendula
Eye Wash
Calendula tea can be used as an eye wash for allergies, dust, and even pink eye! The University of Maryland Medical Center lists calendula as an effective treatment method for conjunctivitis (pink eye).
Medicated Lotion & Diaper Rash Salve
Because of the dematological properties of calendula, it makes sense for this medicinal plant to be showcased in a medicated lotion, but I'm excited to see this plant be safe for babies!. There is a great recipe for this lotion and recipe for this diaper rash salve over at Grow Forage Cook Ferment.
Edible Flowers
These flowers are edible and can be added to any delicate dish. The taste of calendula is similar to saffron and can be a bit spicy and peppery.
And of course....TEA, TEA, and MORE TEA! Can you tell how much I love tea?!
I hope you enjoyed this little post and that you will add some pot marigolds to your garden. Even if you're not growing them medicinally, they're so pretty!! You should totally grow them anyway ;)
Until next time...
Be Natural. Be Honest. Be Healthy.
