Marigold

What is the marigold?

Marigold originally comes from the Mediterranean region and was already valued as a medicinal plant in the Middle Ages. It contains many active ingredients that have an anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, antibacterial, analgesic and antifungal effect. Marigold can be used both internally and externally.

How does marigold work on dogs?

Marigold is particularly good for your dog's skin and mucous membranes. It can help with various skin problems, such as

• dry and cracked skin
• poorly healing wounds
• eczema and dermatitis
• fungal infections
• parasite infestation
• ear infections

Marigold promotes the regeneration of skin cells and relieves itching. It can also improve blood clotting and stop bleeding.

Marigold can also be useful for your dog's gastrointestinal tract. It can help with the following complaints:

• Inflammation of the stomach lining
• diarrhea
• flatulence
• loss of appetite
• nausea

Marigold has a calming and antispasmodic effect on the digestive tract and stimulates the production of gastric juice. It can also support liver function and stimulate the flow of bile.

How is marigold used on dogs?

Calendula can be used in various forms, depending on the problem you want to treat. The most common forms are:

• Tea: You can make a tea from the dried or fresh marigold flowers by pouring hot water over them and leaving to infuse for about 10 minutes. The cooled tea can then be mixed with food or put directly into your dog's mouth. The tea is particularly suitable for gastrointestinal complaints or for general strengthening.
• Tincture: You can also make an alcoholic tincture from the marigold flowers by covering them with high-proof alcohol in a glass jar and leaving them in a dark place for about four weeks. The tincture can then be diluted and mixed into food or applied to the affected areas of skin. The tincture is particularly suitable for wounds or fungal infections.
• Ointment: You can also make an oily ointment from the marigold flowers by heating them in a water bath with a base such as coconut oil or shea butter and then straining. You can then store the ointment in a clean glass jar and apply to your dog's skin as needed. The ointment is particularly suitable for dry or cracked skin or eczema.

Are there any disadvantages or side effects when using marigold?

Marigold is considered to be a very well-tolerated and safe medicinal plant for dogs. However, you should bear a few points in mind before using it:

• Make sure that you only use pure and unsprayed marigolds that do not contain any harmful substances.
• Only use the marigold flowers, not the stems or leaves, as these contain bitter substances that could harm your dog.
• Do not overdose marigold as it could cause stomach irritation or diarrhea. Stick to the recommended dosages or ask your vet for advice.
• Avoid using marigold on pregnant or lactating bitches as it could stimulate labor.
• Avoid using marigold on dogs taking blood-thinning medication as it could affect blood clotting.
• Avoid using marigold in dogs that are allergic to composite flowers, as it could trigger an allergic reaction.