Table of Contents
Where does the name come from?
When the yellow flowers of the marigold have faded, an infructescence of independant fruits of up to two centimeters in length develops. These so-called archenae are sickle-shaped to curled. The marigold owes its German name to them. The botanical name is: Calendula officinalis . In addition to marigold, there are different regional names, such as gold flower, calendula, sun bride or marigold.
What does the marigold look like and where does it grow?
Orange-yellow petals with serrated tips in a cup of green bracts characterize the garden marigold (Calendula officinalis). The annual plant, which probably comes from the Mediterranean region and belongs to the daisy family, more precisely to the Asteraceae, grows to a height of about 50 centimetres. The hairy stem is erect and light green, as are the elongated oval leaves. Marigolds bloom into October. Calendula officinalis is cultivated in large quantities but also occurs naturally throughout Europe. The plant is undemanding and thrives even in poor soil.
Her sister, the field marigold (Calendula arvensis) , is significantly smaller and more lemon yellow. It occurs mainly in the Mediterranean area. In Germany, the plant is only occasionally found in wine-growing areas. She is considered endangered.
What does the marigold help with?
The medicinal plant is not only used decoratively in the garden, because it is not known as one of the most important medicinal plants for nothing. It is a balm for the skin and suitable for both internal and external use. Commission E of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices and the European umbrella organization for phytotherapy (ESCOP) have awarded marigold blossoms a healing effect.
Marigold flowers are the ray florets harvested and dried in full bloom. Its flowers are excellent as a wound healing agent. When applied externally, they inhibit inflammation, promote wound healing and have an antiseptic effect. The flowers are used internally in the mouth and throat, for example in the case of throat or gum infections. The plant is also used for skin problems such as impure skin, eczema or dry skin, small wounds, leg ulcers (ulcus cruris) and burns.
