Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Botanical Description

  • Family: Asteraceae (Daisy family)
  • Common Names: Marigold, Pot Marigold, Calendula
  • Parts Used: Flowers, Petals, Leaves (less commonly)
  • Native Habitat: Indigenous to Southern Europe but widely cultivated across the UK and Isle of Man in gardens and wild meadows.

Marigold (Calendula officinalis) is highly valued for its anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, antimicrobial, and soothing properties, making it an essential herb in human, equine, and canine medicine.

Equine Use of Marigold

Benefits for Horses

Marigold is commonly used for:

  1. Wound & Skin Healing – Applied externally to cuts, burns, and abrasions.
  2. Hoof Health & Thrush Treatment – Helps prevent fungal infections and promotes healthy hooves.
  3. Joint & Muscle Soothing – Used in liniments and washes for muscle soreness and inflammation.
  4. Digestive Health – Aids gastric ulcers and colic relief.
  5. Immune System Support – Strengthens lymphatic flow and detoxification.
Administration for Horses
  • Poultices & Salves: Applied directly to wounds, bruises, and infections.
  • Herbal Washes: Infused marigold water used for skin irritations and fungal infections.
  • Hoof Soaks: Used in soaking treatments for thrush and hoof infections.
  • Dried Flowers in Feed: For immune and digestive support.
⚠ Precautions
  • Avoid use in pregnant mares due to potential hormonal effects.
  • Ensure no allergic reaction before widespread application.

Canine Use of Marigold

Benefits for Dogs

Marigold is beneficial for:

  1. Skin & Coat Health – Soothes hot spots, eczema, and dermatitis.
  2. Wound & Infection Care – Speeds up healing of cuts, scratches, and insect bites.
  3. Ear & Eye Infections – Used as a rinse for mild ear and eye infections.
  4. Digestive Support – Aids gastric irritation and mild inflammatory bowel conditions.
  5. Paw & Pad Care – Applied to cracked paws and minor injuries.
Administration for Dogs
  • Skin Washes & Sprays: Infused marigold water for rashes and wounds.
  • Herbal Oils & Balms: Applied to dry or infected skin.
  • Marigold Tea (Mild Internal Use): A small amount added to drinking water for digestive support.
⚠ Precautions
  • Check for allergies before use.
  • Not recommended for pregnant or nursing dogs.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore of Marigold

Folklore & Historical Use
  • Protective Herb – In British and Manx folklore, marigold was believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune.
  • Used in Herbal Healing – Traditional herbalists in the Isle of Man applied marigold to wounds and skin ailments.
  • Sacred to the Sun – The bright golden flowers symbolized strength, vitality, and protection.
  • Planted in Gardens for Luck – Farmers grew marigold to ensure healthy crops and livestock.
  • Love & Divination – Used in folk love spells and fortune-telling rituals.

Calming

Coat and skin

Digestion

Hooves

Wellbeing

Common Herbs M-Z Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)