Traditional Indian weddings are colourful and they are about friendly get-togethers dipped in floral hues; where people come together to celebrate the happy union of two souls. And not just in wedding decorations but many religious rituals, especially amongst the Hindus, Marigold has an important role. I myself have grown up watching my grandmother and mother getting up early in the morning on festive days like Dussehra and Diwali and adorning the main entrance of the house with marigold flowers and mango leaves. It is considered to be auspicious and welcoming.
But those practices apart, marigold, in itself, does more than attract thanks to is the rich colour it possesses. The flowers no doubt look attractive when blooming in a garden or strung together as part of a decorative arrangement. But there is more to it than what meets the eye.
Here are some benefits of Marigold or Calendulla for your health:
Marigold is an effective herb that helps cure inflammation in the body. Be it eye infection or skin allergies, it is known to be an effective healer. It decreases swelling by facilitating adequate blood flow to the affected region, when applied topically.
Adding dried or fresh flowers (that have been soaked in water for a day and then heated just before a bath) to a bath tub and then relaxing in it can be beneficial for those who suffer from vaginal infections, genital herpes and bladder infections. It is also said to be an effective in soothing pain associated with hemorrhoids.
Fungal infections like athlete’s foot, ringworm and yeast infections can be treated with marigold by crushing its flowers and adding coconut oil and heating it slightly.
It is also effective in treating painful varicose veins.
As per ayurveda, the leaves and seed of marigold when consumed are effective in treating scrofula, a disease where one experiences glandular swellings, probably a form of tuberculosis.
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It acts as a diuretic (causing increased passing of urine). It can hence detoxify the urinary tract.
Any internal preparation is to be avoided during pregnancy as it may induce early labour which may prove to be harmful.
However, an ointment made from marigold is beneficial in treating scars that are associated with pregnancy by reducing their visibility. It also helps soothe cracked nipples as a result of nursing.
The ointment can also help reduce the uneasiness caused by mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary gland usually caused by a bacterial infection.
As discussed earlier, following the bathtub ritual may prove beneficial in reducing the soreness and pain post pregnancy.
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Washing the affected area with marigold soaked water helps soothe sunburns. Instead of quickly washing the face with water soon after washing it with the preparation, let it stay for five to ten minutes.
Marigold oil is said to be beneficial in treating arthritis.
Lutein, extracted from marigold may play an important role in reducing tumours from the breast and prevent new tumours from appearing.
Marigold tea when consumed 2-3 times a day is said to be beneficial in treating common colds, cough and fever.
Marigold tea Courtesy: naturalhomeremedies.co
Sources:
Disclaimer: “Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint,” said Mark Twain. Similarly, when suffering from health disorders, do not hesitate to visit a physician. Drag yourself there because often, no web-search is as useful as a physician’s advice!
