Family: Asteraceae    Genus: Calendula  

Species: Calendula officinalis L.
Common Name(s): pot marigold, calendula, common marigold

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Calendula officinalis, commonly known as pot marigold, is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region and has been widely cultivated and naturalized in various parts of the world, including North America.

Etymology

Calendula comes from the Latin word “calends” meaning the first days of every month because the plant was said to bloom only at those times. Officinalis comes from the Latin word “officina” meaning workshop or pharmacy, which is commonly used in botanical Latin to indicate plants historically used in medicine and herbalism. The original meaning of “marigold” comes from Mary’s Gold, with the first part likely referring to the Virgin Mary and “gold” referring to the flower’s golden color.

Fables, Folklore, and Mythology

The bright, golden flowers of pot marigold were often associated with the sun and believed to bring cheer and warmth to gardens. Carrying a flower was thought to attract admiration and positive attention. Often linked to love and affection, they were frequently used in love spells and charms. In Mexico, pot marigolds are used during the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations to honor deceased loved ones. The vibrant colors of the flowers are thought to guide spirits to the offerings prepared for them. In India, the flowers symbolize purity and devotion and are often seen in religious ceremonies, festivals, and temples.59

Traditional Medicine

Pot marigold has been used medicinally as early as the 12th century. It was taken internally to treat fevers, promote menstruation and treat cancer. The flowers were also made into extracts, tinctures, balms and salves to help heal wounds, treat minor burns and abrasions, and to soothe inflamed and damaged skin. In Italian folk medicine, pot marigold is used as an antipyretic and anti-inflammatory. Teas made from pot marigold are used as eye washes, gargles or compresses to treat conjunctivitis, pharyngitis, aphthous stomatitis and gingivostomatitis, diaper rashes and other inflammatory conditions of the skin and mucus membranes.60 In India, plant ointments are applied topically to treat skin damage, gangrene, wounds, acne, chicken pox, mumps, scars, herpes, ulcers, and frostbite.61

Gastronomy

Pot marigold blossoms, with their tangy, peppery taste, have been used in cooking since ancient times. They can enhance salads, soups, sauces, tarts, preserves, pickles, fritters, and soft cheeses. The orange color serves as a saffron substitute, enriching the color of cheese and egg yolks.62