Marigold (Tagetes erecta)

What Is Marigold (Tagetes erecta)?

In India, marigold is also referred to as "Tagetes erecta" or "Genda," and it is a decorative plant. This herb originated in Mexico and spread over the world from the continent of Africa. This is a stunning flower that blooms in the winter and is scented and brilliant orange. Marigold is used both internally and externally for its many therapeutic uses. This flowering plant may reach a height of 70 cm and thrive in a moderate environment.

Systemic Classification of Tagetes erecta:

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Family: Asteraceae
• Order: Asterales
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Genus: Tagetes

Common Names & Regional Synonyms of Marigold:

• English name: Aztec marigold, Mexican marigold, African marigold
• Hindi name: Genda, Genda phool
• Gujarati name: Galaghoto
• Malayalam name: Chendu malli
• Telugu name: Banti Puvuu
• Sanskrit name: Jhandu, Gendaa
• Nepalese name: Sayapatri
• Parsi name: Gulhazara
• Kannada name: Chendu huva, Chenduhoovu
• Bengali name: Genda
• Marathi name: Ghenda

Ayurvedic Properties of Marigold:

Rasa, Guna, Virya & Vipaka:

Effects on Vata & Kapha Doshas:

It has a heating effect, which helps balance excess Kapha and Vata doshas in Ayurveda.

Chemical Constituents of Tagetes erecta:

Lutein esters of monomyristate, dimyristate, and dipalmitate are found in marigold flowers. The essential oil components of limonene, ocimene, linalool, linalyl acetate, tagetone, and n-nonyl aldehyde are present in the entire plant. Its petal has hydroxyflavones and tagetin.

Pharmacological Actions of Marigold:

This plant presents a variety of pharmacological effects, including:

• Antimicrobial
• Antipyretic
• Antioxidant
• Antifungal
• Antiseptic
• Antiviral
• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antispasmodic
• Antiparasitic
• Blood purifier
• Carminative
• Calming
• Decongestant
• Demulcent
• Febrifuge
• Stimulant
• Tonic
• Skin toner

What Conditions Does Marigold Treat? (Indications):

This herb's numerous parts, including the flowers, leaves, roots, petals, and seeds, are used medicinally for the following conditions:

• Skin disorders
• Earache
• Erectile dysfunction
• Urinary problems
• Calculi
• Toothache
• Swelling
• Bleeding in ulcerative colitis
• Wounds
• Bleeding disorders
• Boils
• Rheumatism
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Epistaxis
• Anal prolapse

How to Use Marigold for Different Conditions:

I. Urinary Tract Infections:

Powdered marigold leaves are used to treat conditions like burning sensations and sparse urination. An equal amount of misri is combined with 3 to 6 grams of leaf powder. For best effects, take this combination twice a day.

II. Urinary Calculi (Kidney Stones):

To get rid of stones, marigold leaves are utilized in a decoction form. Place 20 grams of its leaves in two glasses of water and bring to a boil, leaving ½ glass behind. You will notice changes if you drink this twice a day.

III. Respiratory Disorders, Asthma & Cough:

For any respiratory issue, you can use powdered marigold seeds. Take 3-4 grams of this powder and mix it with the same quantity of mishri twice a day.

IV. Epistaxis, Menorrhagia & Bleeding Disorders:

You should take 5–10 milliliters of fresh floral juice extract for each of these issues. Consume this drink on a daily basis, or chew the blossom to stop bleeding if necessary.

V. Erectile Dysfunction:

Add 3 grams of powdered marigold seeds to the misri. Sip alongside a glass of milk. Twice a day, maximum.

VI. Toothache:

A decoction of marigold leaves can be made by combining a small amount of leaves with two glasses of water. Bring to a boil, leaving one glass behind. After straining the mixture, gargle with it twice a day.

VII. Earache:

Put two drops of the fresh leaf juice extract in each ear.

VIII. Swelling, Boils & Bleeding Wounds:

Make a paste out of the marigold plant and apply it to the region that is affected.

IX. Acne & Skin Problems: 

Acne is treated by this herb's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. Prepare a paste by boiling marigold flowers in a cup of water until they are reduced by half. After letting it cool, sieve this combination. Use this at night to treat your acne.

X. Insect Bites:

Using the marigold plant's blossoms, make a paste. Apply it to the bug bite region that is afflicted. Apply this; your skin will feel soothed.

XI. Nasal Bleeding (ITP Patients): 

Use the juice of this flower to prevent bleeding issues, which are common among ITP patients, because of its body-cooling and body-calming effects.

Recommended Dosage of Marigold:

• You can take 10 to 20 ml of the juice once or twice a day.
• You can use 3 to 6 grams of this plant's powder.

Side Effects & Safety Notes:

When consumed as directed, this herb has no side effects.