Believed to have originated in India, Europeans in the 12th century were claiming that by merely looking at these cheery flowers the spirits were lifted. The power lies in the petals and Culpeper recommended actual ingestion “as a comforter of the heart and spirits, and to expel any malignant quality which may annoy them”.

A traditional remedy for measles and smallpox, it was also believed to strengthen the heart and the Arabians fed it to their horses as well as themselves. Today, it is used mainly for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Often sold under its botanical name of Calendula, marigold cream is used for treating fungal infections, minor burns, cuts, grazes, skin disorders such as eczema, and soothing sore nipples in breastfeeding.

Internally it improves digestion, is an effective menstrual regulator, and will help cleanse inflamed lymph nodes in conditions such as glandular fever. An important cosmetic ingredient, marigold acts as a general tonic for the complexion as well as healing old wounds or scars.

This information is purely for the interest of the reader and should not be taken as medical advice. If you wish to utilise herbal remedies, please consult a qualified herbalist before doing so.