Marigold flower
Marigolds are bright, sun-loving flowers known around the world—but the name hides an important distinction. For health and healing, the plant most often meant is Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also called pot marigold or English marigold. The orange bedding plants called French or African marigold (Tagetes) are usually grown for ornament and pest control, not medicine.
This page summarises what marigold is used for, what science supports, and how to use it safely.
Calendula vs ornamental marigold
Calendula (pot marigold)
Member of the daisy family (Asteraceae). Golden-orange petals are edible and widely used in creams, ointments, and teas. Most research on “marigold” health benefits refers to this species.
Tagetes (French / African marigold)
Popular in gardens for colour and as a companion plant to deter insects. Not the same as calendula for medicinal use—do not assume garden marigolds are interchangeable with calendula products.
What is in the flower?
Calendula flowers contain plant compounds that may explain their traditional use on skin and in herbal medicine:
- Flavonoids and carotenoids — antioxidant pigments that give petals their colour
- Triterpenoids — often linked to anti-inflammatory effects in lab and clinical studies
- Saponins, glycosides, and volatile oils — contribute to antimicrobial and soothing properties
These constituents are why calendula appears in skincare, wound-care, and homeopathic preparations worldwide.
Health benefits (what evidence supports)
Strongest evidence: skin and wounds
Most clinical research supports topical use—creams, ointments, washes, or infused oils—not eating the flower as a cure for serious illness.
- Minor cuts, scrapes, and burns — calendula may support faster healing and less redness in some studies (e.g. surgical scars, leg ulcers)
- Inflamed or irritated skin — used for eczema, dermatitis, diaper rash, and dry skin (results vary; not a replacement for prescribed treatment)
- Radiation dermatitis — some trials suggest benefit for skin irritation during cancer radiotherapy; evidence is mixed
Other areas (early or mixed evidence)
- Bacterial vaginosis — small trials of calendula cream vs standard care; promising but not definitive
- Oral sores during chemotherapy — under study
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects — well shown in lab; human oral use for diabetes, liver, or fever has much weaker proof
Traditional and everyday uses
Calendula has been used for centuries in European and Ayurvedic traditions—for fevers, stomach complaints, eye irritation, and wound care. Many oral traditions lack large modern trials.
Culinary
Fresh petals in salads; dried petals in soups, rice, or as a saffron-like colour. This is food tradition, not proof of disease treatment.
Topical
Commercial calendula creams and oils; home infusions of dried petals in carrier oil (only from confirmed C. officinalis, pesticide-free).
Oral
Teas and tinctures exist; evidence and dosing are less established than for skin products.
Historically called the “herb of the sun”—calendula opens in morning light and was valued in monastery gardens for skin salves long before modern pharmacy.
Safety and cautions
- Allergies — people sensitive to ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums, or related plants may react to calendula (especially on skin).
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding — avoid medicinal amounts unless a clinician approves; safety data are limited.
- Open wounds — use clean, commercial or hygienically prepared products; homemade infusions can introduce infection if not made carefully.
- Medications — if you take sedatives or have surgery planned, ask a doctor or pharmacist before regular oral use.
- Tagetes marigolds — do not treat ornamental garden marigolds as calendula for health purposes.
This page is for general information only—not medical advice. For a specific condition, speak with a qualified healthcare provider.
Further reading: MSK Calendula monograph · NIH review on Calendula officinalis