French marigold
TAGETES PATULA

  

French marigold is an annual plant that is heavily branched. The leaves tend to be dark green and light green, arranged alternately on short stems. Inflorescences - brightly colored baskets, 4-6 cm in diameter. French marigold baskets have a simple construction. The color of the petals is usually bright yellow, orange-brown, red-brown, yellow-brown. Fruit - an elongated testicle, which is narrowed at the base. Seeds are valid for 3-4 years. French marigold reproduce with the help of seeds.

For medicinal purposes, French marigold inflorescences are used, which are collected during the mass flowering period (July). It is good to know that later harvesting can promote the ripening of seeds, in inflorescences and shedding from them. French marigold inflorescences cut. Dry on sieves in a well-ventilated and shaded place.

The chemical composition of French marigold has not been studied enough! The composition of the plant contains ocimene (50%), sabinene, pinene, cymol, myrcene, linalool, citral, tagetone, quercetagetin, terpinene, ketone, etc. elements have also been found. It is known that the inflorescences contain dyes, alkaloids, organic acids, sulfur compounds, essential oil, which contains about 40% tagetone.

Medicinal significance

Medicinal and insecticidal properties of French marigold are also provided by the phytoncide value of this plant. The essential oil contains phytoncides - special active substances that prevent the development of pathogenic microorganisms. The essential oil of the plant also has antifungal effects. Carotenoids - lutein, which is found in French marigold flowers, is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that reduces the risk of developing cataracts, and also helps restore visual acuity. Unfortunately, lutein breaks down with a little heat treatment, so it is best taken through French marigold oil or as a velvet flower infusion, in cold water. However, it is best to absorb the valuable substances of French marigold when using fresh or dried French marigold as a seasoning for food.

Thanks to the unique chemical composition of French marigold , sulfur compounds and other active components have a diaphoretic, expectorant, choleretic and diuretic effect, improving the secretion of mucus from the respiratory tract, reducing edema, improving liver function and pancreas function. The alkaloids present in vellum act as bactericides and as an antihelminthic agent.

This plant is particularly popular in folk medicine. Decoctions and infusions, as well as oil extracts, are used in skin treatment (psoriasis, vitiligo, neurodermatitis, diathesis), oral cavity treatment (stomatitis, gingivitis, laryngitis).

French marigold has sweat, bile and urine repelling properties. Regular use of French marigold plants can improve the functioning of the pancreas, regulate the nervous system, treat diabetes, strengthen the immune system, reduce edema, and regulate metabolic processes in the body.

A decoction of French marigold inflorescences is an excellent preventive measure against colds during viral infections. The active substances of the plant will promote the healing of sweat, removing viruses and toxins from the body faster. And, interestingly, this plant is also considered a good antidepressant.

The substances in samten contribute to the regulation of digestive processes - they regulate the intestinal tract, prevent constipation.

The juice of the leaves and stems of the plant will help if applied in the form of applications instead of spider and bee stings. The flowers are also used to get rid of helminths, both adults and children can use them.

French marigold oil extracts are widely used in home cosmetology.

Not recommended for use

Despite the fact that French marigold is a valuable medicinal plant, side effects have been observed when using it. It is not recommended to use this plant during pregnancy and lactation, for children under 3 years of age. Also, velor should not be used by people who suffer from eczema, as well as those who are prone to allergies.

If cough, stuffy nose, itching or skin rash appear after the first use of French marigold , further treatment should be stopped.

Importance of food

The petals of the plant are collected for food. Collect with all the flower baskets and before drying, the petals are highlighted or cut out. Petals are used instead of saffron, of course they will not be as strong. Add as desired in pilafs, soups, sauces, stews and more.