Marigold
Also known as: Calendula officinalis, Tagetes erecta, Pot Marigold, Calendula, Lutein source
Effective Dosage
6 mg/day lutein from marigold extract (eye health); topical and mouthwash doses vary by application
What the Science Says
Marigold (Calendula officinalis or Tagetes erecta) is a flowering plant used in traditional medicine and as a source of lutein, a carotenoid that accumulates in the retina. Supplementing with 6 mg of lutein daily from marigold extract significantly raises blood lutein levels within 15 days, which is associated with reduced risk of age-related eye disease. A mouthwash containing Calendula extract alongside other herbs showed comparable effectiveness to chlorhexidine for reducing gum inflammation over two weeks, and animal studies suggest antioxidant and DNA-protective effects from petal extracts.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat or prevent macular degeneration on its own — the eye research is on lutein levels, not disease outcomes. The mouthwash study used a multi-herb blend, so you can't credit marigold alone. No solid human evidence it heals wounds, reduces PMS, or lowers blood pressure — those findings are from lab studies or multi-ingredient products. Don't expect it to replace prescribed medications for any condition.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Marigold has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may support skin health and wound healing. Several clinical trials and systematic reviews suggest its efficacy in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
Strong EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Moderate — lutein from both free and ester forms in marigold extract showed similar serum absorption in humans, with a 2.4-fold increase in blood levels within 15 days at 6 mg/day. Fat-soluble nature means absorption may be enhanced when taken with dietary fat.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most human studies use marigold as part of multi-ingredient formulas, making it impossible to isolate its specific effects
- Several papers indexed under 'Marigold' are unrelated to human supplementation (seizure drug trials, plant remediation studies) — the name is used for multiple unrelated research contexts
- Wedelolactone, a compound isolated from marigold, showed cytotoxic effects at higher doses in lab studies — dose safety in humans is not established
- PMS supplement study (PMSoff) contained 10+ ingredients including marigold — no way to attribute benefits to marigold specifically
- Animal and in vitro data dominate the evidence base; human clinical trials are limited and often short-term
Products Containing Marigold
See how Marigold is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06