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Calendula

What is the garden marigold?

The garden marigold is a plant whose flowers are used to make medicine. The flower of the garden marigold 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. Garden 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 for nosebleeds, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, inflammation of the rectum and conjunctivitis. The garden 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 garden marigold?

There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of garden marigold in treating muscle spasms, fever, cancer, nosebleeds, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, inflammation of the mouth and throat, wounds and ulcers on the legs, and in promoting menstruation. Further scientific research is required for this.

How does garden marigold work?

It is believed that the chemicals contained in garden marigold can promote the growth of new tissue in wounds and reduce swelling in the mouth and throat.

Are there any safety concerns?

Garden 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: Garden marigold products should not be taken orally during pregnancy. There are concerns that they may cause miscarriages. It is best to avoid using them on the skin during pregnancy until further research has been carried out. It is also best to avoid using garden marigold products while breastfeeding, as there is insufficient information regarding its safety in breastfeeding women. Allergies to broomrape / ragweed and related plants: Garden marigold can 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 garden marigold products. Surgeries: Garden marigold products can cause excessive drowsiness and dizziness when combined with medications used during or after surgery. For this reason, you should stop taking garden marigold products 2 weeks before an operation.

Do they interact with medication?

Sedative medications (sedatives that suppress the CNS): Garden marigold can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Taking garden 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 garden 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 garden 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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  4. 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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