Therapeutic use of pot marigold originates from ancient Egypt and then spread to Europe. Pot marigold is annual cabbage-like plant with branched pedicel, 60 cm high. Flowers of dark yellow to orange color, cross section of 2-5 cm, bitter taste and characteristic smell are medicinal parts of the plant.
Calendulin, carotenoids, lycopene, flavonoids, organic acids, essential oils, bitter substances, phytosteroles, etc. can be singled out from the rich chemical pharmacopeic composition the pharmacologic effect of marigold is based upon.
Pot marigold can rightfully be named “herb of the skin” as there is no dermatological disease it cannot help: warts, eczema, psoriasis, ulcers, seborrhea, herpes zoster, burns, rashes, urticaria, fistulae, mastitis, wounds that fester or take time to heal.
This herb is effective in treating external and internal diseases as it accelerates perspiration, increases urine excretion, relieves colic of intestines, stomach and smooth muscles as its effect is beneficial to mucous membrane of these organs, balances menstrual cycle – amenorrhea, treats diseases of nerves, internal organs, liver, gall-bladder and biliary canals.
Pot marigold tea is also used for injury rinsing, inflammations and infections, decubitus and bruises, has healing effect in venous diseases, and soothes atherosclerosis difficulties. The anti cancerogenous effect of pot marigold is also important for skin wounds, uterus, stomach as well as its power to improve immunologic response of the organism.
It is important detoxifier used in various combinations with other teas for purification of blood.