- Origin
- North America (Mexico, Central America)
- Other names
- Tagetes
- Traditions
- Ayurveda, Curanderismo
Central America and the Caribbean · Herb · № 347
Tagetes erecta
Herb · Central America and the Caribbean
Mexican marigold
Tagetes erecta
Traditionally attributed effects: curbs sebum in oily skin, calms and prevents dehydration in dry skin, hydrates and keeps wrinkles at bay in combination skin; spiritual symbol of inner fire.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
10–15 fresh, bruised petals in a face mask: for oily skin with amla, lemon juice, yoghurt and chickpea flour; for dry skin with honey, cream and chickpea flour.
Use in traditions
In Mexico this marigold is called cempasúchil, 'twenty-petal flower' in Nahuatl. The Aztecs used it as a medicine and an offering flower, and on the Day of the Dead its orange petals show souls the way home. Curanderos use an infusion for stomach ache and fever. In India the same species is strung into garlands for temples and weddings, and worked into face masks in Ayurveda.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Everyday Ayurveda
Attributed effects
Curbs sebum in oily skin, calms and prevents dehydration in dry skin, hydrates and keeps wrinkles at bay in combination skin; spiritual symbol of inner fire.
Preparation and amount
10–15 fresh, bruised petals in a face mask: for oily skin with amla, lemon juice, yoghurt and chickpea flour; for dry skin with honey, cream and chickpea flour; for combination skin with yoghurt, red sandalwood and chickpea flour; leave on for 10 min.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Compress, poultice and pasteSyrup, honey and oxymel