Marigold
Botanical name: (Tagetes)
Also Known As: Tagetes
Marigolds contain numerous antioxidant carotenoids that give the petals their bright orange and yellow colors. An antioxidant is a compound that helps protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals, or hazardous molecules. Free radicals are the by—products of normal body functions or environmental factors such as cigarette smoke or pollution. Free radicals can damage cells to the point that they damage DNA, and can lead to disease and various forms of cancer. High intake of antioxidants helps combat free radical damage.
The antioxidants in marigolds help fight and prevent cancer. The effects of lutein, an antioxidant extracted from marigolds, on breast cancer tumors show that lutein not only reduced the number of tumors in the breast, it also prevented new cancer cells from developing. Marigold has also been found effective against leukemia, colon and melanoma cancer cells.
One of marigold's folk uses has been in the area of wound healing. Rubbed on burns, scrapes and irritated skin, marigolds provide relief. One of the mechanisms marigold has is for wound healing, it has this ability because. Marigolds also acts as an anti—inflammatory due to the presence of other compounds, including triterpenes and steroids.
Marigold petals can be dried and used as a spice in place of saffron, steeped in hot water for a tea or used fresh on salads.
Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration, and this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. We at eSutras do not recommend internal use of supplements or herbs without prior consultation with your doctor or herbalist.
