Why marigolds are healing

Marigolds are annual plants that thrive in any soil and grow throughout Europe, Western Asia and the U.S.

• An infusion of the petals can be used to lighten and brighten hair.

• As an anti-fungal agent, marigold preparations can treat athlete's foot, ringworm and candida. A tincture also helps heal cold sores.

• Shakespeare said of the plant in The Winter's Tale: 'The Marigold that goes to bed wi' th' sun / And with him rises weeping.'

• The petals can be boiled to produce a rich yellow dye. The pigment can be used to intensify the colour of egg yolks, soups and custards.

• Marigold leaves, eaten as a salad, were considered useful in treating scrofula in children.

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