Field marigold
What is the marigold?
The marigold is a plant whose flowers are used to make medicine.
The marigold flower is used to prevent muscle spasms, induce the menstrual period and reduce fever. It is also used to treat menstrual cramps, cancer, a sore throat, a sore mouth and duodenal ulcers. Marigold flower extracts are applied to the skin to reduce pain and inflammatory swelling, as well as to treat poor wound healing and ulcers on the legs. Marigold extracts are also applied to the skin to treat nosebleeds, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, inflammation of the rectum and conjunctivitis. Marigold (Calendula Avensis) should not be confused with the ornamental marigold (Tagetes Erecta), which is usually grown as an ornamental plant and in vegetable gardens.
How effective is marigold?
There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of marigold in the treatment of muscle spasms, fever, cancer, nosebleeds, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, inflammation of the mouth and throat, wounds and ulcers on the legs, and to promote menstruation. Further scientific research is required for this.
How does marigold work?
It is believed that the chemicals contained in marigold can promote the growth of new tissue in wounds and reduce swelling in the mouth and throat.
Are there any safety concerns?
Marigold products appear to be safe and harmless for most people when taken orally or applied to the skin.
Precautions and warnings:
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: marigold products should not be taken orally during pregnancy. There are concerns that they may cause miscarriages. It is also best to avoid application to the skin during pregnancy until further research has been carried out. It is also best to avoid using marigold products while breastfeeding as there is insufficient information regarding safety in breastfeeding women.
Allergies to broomrape / ragweed and related plants: Field marigold may cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family. Members of this family include broomweed, ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies and many others. If you suffer from allergies, you should consult your doctor before using marigold products.
Surgeries: Marigold products in combination with medications used during or after surgery can cause excessive drowsiness and dizziness. For this reason, you should stop taking marigold products 2 weeks before an operation.
Do they interact with medication?
Sedative medication (sedatives that suppress the CNS)
Marigold can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Taking marigold supplements with sedatives can result in excessive drowsiness and/or dizziness.
Are there any interactions with medicinal plants or supplements?
There are no known interactions with medicinal plants or supplements.
Are there any interactions with food?
There are no known interactions with food.
Recommended dosage
The appropriate dosage of marigold supplements depends on various aspects such as age, health status, etc. of the user. Currently, there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate dosage range for marigold supplements. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label or ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking it.
References
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- Reider N, Komericki P, Hausen BM, et al. The seamy side of natural medicines: contact sensitization to arnica (Arnica montana L.) and marigold (Calendula officinalis L.). Contact Dermatitis 2001;45:269-72.
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