Calendula officinalis, also known as marigold, has an extended history of beneficial qualities for our health. Calendula functioned as a typical component of alternative remedies all through Europe for quite some time. Throughout the 1600s, marigold was suggested for heat-related illnesses including to those who were feverish. Herbalists in Italy employed marigold to wash the eyes in gargles and in compresses. In more modern years, we see calendula being used in natural lotions for burn therapy and in a variety of other natural remedies. Listed below are 6 marigold health benefits that are easy for anyone to use at home.
Large Antioxidant Content
Marigolds include several antioxidant carotenoids, which is what give the petals their brilliant yellow and orange colours. An antioxidant is a chemical that protects cells from harm due to free radicals or dangerous molecules. Free radicals are a result of the normal wear and tear of our bodies, or environmental elements including tobacco smoke or pollution. Free radicals can harm cells so much that they damage our body’s DNA, and can result in different kinds of cancer. High consumption of anti-oxidants helps to fight the damage of free radicals. The main carotenoids in marigolds are lutein and zeaxanthin, frequently coupled together, and lycopene. The Linus Pauling Institute has stated that zeaxanthin and lutein happen to be the only antioxidants that are in the eye’s retina. Their presence there helps in the protection of the eye against cataracts. Lycopene is documented to decrease the danger of cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer.
Protection Against Cancer
The anti-oxidants in marigolds help our bodies to avoid and combat cancer, according to research in The Journal of Nutrition. In this research, scientists from Washington State University analyzed the results of lutein, an antioxidant pulled from marigolds, on breast cancer tumors. The results of the research display that lutein not only decreased the number of tumors within the breast, but it also kept new cancer cells from occurring. Scientists discovered that even in little dietary quantities, the lutein that is contained in marigolds had a good impact. Marigold has been found to be efficient against colon, leukemia and melanoma cancer cells.
Burn Treatment
Based on the University of Maryland, when placed in lotions, marigolds can make an efficient burn treatment. Till they turn translucent to produce a tincture, just steep one tsp of marigold petals (organic ones, of course) in a cup of hot water. Gently dab the tincture on the burnt area to help remedy the area.
When you include comfrey root in any marigold ointments it can help to enhance the healing qualities on burns, and makes a combination that can help to treat small wounds, also.
Anti-inflammatory
Suhaila Mohamed, a professor of engineering and food science, mentions marigold in one of his lectures where he discusses anti-inflammatory herbs and the medical benefits of food. In this type of use, marigold oil is typically optimal, but you need to make sure that you do a quick skin test to ensure there’s no allergic response. Marigold oil can help with eczema and bruising, too.
Pain Relief
The U.S. National Library of Medicine reviews that essential marigold oil decreases pain when used topically. The oil proves especially useful for plantar lesions that occur on the feet, assuming it’s a not artificial and is a true essential oil.
Acne and Oily Complexions
Marigold tinctures are recommended for managing acne and oily complexions. Once per day utilize fresh flowers soaked in hot water and apply them right to your skin; keep them on for about 10 minutes, then rinse completely.