Miracle Marigold Flowers
Marigolds (also known as Potted Marigolds/Calendula) are a symbol of autumn. Their beautiful shades of yellow, red and orange make beautiful fall flower arrangements. Marigolds flowers are more than just a pretty flower, though. They are miracle flowers. After reading this, you’ll never look at a marigold flower the same way.
Medicinal Uses for Marigold Flowers
When used as an ointment or a tincture, marigolds can be used in the treatment of minor burns. Don’t know what a tincture is or how to make an ointment? I highly recommend checking out Herbal Academy of New England’s online Introductory Herbal Class.
Soak fresh flowers in warm water and then apply flowers to your skin at least once a day for ten minutes, then rinse. You’ll look pretty with the flowers on your face and even prettier when the treatment takes care of your oily complexion.
Marigolds promote the growth of new blood vessels and new skin tissue. It’s great for using on scratches, scrapes and irritated skin.
Do you have mouth sores (those things are so irritating!) or stomach ulcers? Marigold tea could be the answer for you. You can buy marigold tea on Amazon already in the tea bags. It may also be available in the dried herbs section at your local health food store.
Culinary Uses for Marigold Flowers
Marigolds have great benefits in the kitchen as well. Did you know there are recipes out there just for marigolds? Here are a few of my favorites:
- Quick Pickled Cucumbers with Marigolds from The Atlantic
- Marigold & Parmesan Scones from Wealden Times
- Egg & Tomato Salad with Marigold & Chive Flowers from Lavender and Lovage
- Zucchini Boats with Marigold Petals from Cooks.com
Planting Marigold Flowers
Marigolds like nice sunny locations. You can plant them along walkways, in window boxes or containers around your entry for autumn appeal. But be sure to look beyond the flower gardens. Plant a few among your vegetables as well. The scent repels many animals and insects and the root system repels ground-dwelling pests for up to three years.
Drying Marigold Flowers
Harvest your marigold flowers early in the morning since afternoon sun can wilt them. Lay them face down on a towel or on some newspaper. Turn them a couple of times each day until completely dry. How do you know when they have dried out enough? They should be very delicate and crisp and if you gently tug on a petal it should pull right out.
Don’t have the patience to dry? Quick dry using my tip in Gardening Hacks. Hint: The moms at carpool will give you an odd look. Do you grow marigolds?