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.
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.