Natural Benefits of Marigold in Dogs

Calendula / Marigold

 

Marigold is added to Meatsnax Dental+, JointAid+ and AntiWormer+; due to its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Overview

Marigold (Calendula Officinalis) or Pot Marigold is a commonly used herbal medicine which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Marigold has high amounts of flavonoids, plant-based antioxidants (which give the plant its bright colour) that protect cells from being damaged by unstable molecules called free radicals. Marigold appears to fight inflammation, viruses, and bacteria. Its soothing effect is due to an ability to scavenge free radicals which are by-products of inflammation, inhibiting them from causing further inflammation, and to an ability to inhibit lymphocyte proliferation (a white blood cell associated with the immune system). Flavonoids and possibly terpenoids are believed to contribute to these effects. Marigold is, however, a potent molluscicide, proving lethal to snails, slugs and flukes. Marigold also contains large amounts of lutein which is found in the retina of the eye. Lutein protects the eye from the development of cataracts and macular degeneration. A less commonly known effect of Marigold is its ability to heal and prevent gastric ulcers, due to its content of saponins, traditionally, marigold extracts have been used to treat stomach upset and ulcers. Marigold also delays gastric emptying and lowers blood sugar, effects that are of potential importance as veterinary and human medicine become increasingly concerned about insulin resistance and its multiple adverse effects. Marigold is used topically for its anti-inflammatory and weak antimicrobial (antiseptic) properties. Clinical experience with Marigold suggests it can accelerate wound healing. Diluted Marigold is used as an ear and eye wash.

How much experience is there with the use of Marigold in pets? Marigold has been used topically for many years in pets. Dogs and cats are the pets normally treated with Marigold. How much research has been conducted on this supplement? No controlled clinical trials have been conducted with Calendula. A large uncontrolled study in 1981 showed an apparent ability to promote the rapid healing of gastric ulcers. Most of our knowledge regarding Calendula comes from laboratory research, clinical experience, and herbal lore.

How safe is Marigold? Marigold is considered a non-toxic plant, but it should not be used in pregnancy since some of its constituents may cause or promote uterine contractions. Marigold is generally considered safe. It can cause drowsiness, so caution is advised if your dog is on medication that might also cause drowsiness. Check with your vet.

Allergic reactions are common to plants of the Aster family, of which Calendula is a member. There is thus a remote risk of mild irritation when Marigold is applied topically. It is estimated that perhaps only one percent of people may experience such a reaction, and perhaps even fewer animals. If redness or itch occurs in response to Marigold, discontinue its use.

Miscellaneous Facts about Marigold

The name calendula is a modern Latin diminutive of calendae, meaning “little calendar”, “little clock”

The flower petals of the calendula plant (Calendula officinalis), or pot marigold, have been used for medicinal purposes since at least the 12th century. Calendula is native to Mediterranean countries but is now grown in Europe, Western Asia, and the United States. It belongs to the same family as daisies, chrysanthemums, and ragweed, Marigold is an annual plant that thrives in almost any soil. Its branching stems grow to a height of 30 - 60 cm, and it blooms from early spring until frost. The orange-yellow petals of the flowers are used for medicine.

Romans and Greeks used the golden calendula in many rituals and ceremonies, sometimes wearing crowns or garlands made from the flowers!