Marigold blossoms

What do marigold flowers do for dogs?

Marigold flowers have various positive effects on the health of dogs. Among other things, they have the following effects:

• Anti-inflammatory: Marigold flowers can help to relieve inflammation of the skin, mucous membranes, ears or gastrointestinal tract. They contain flavonoids, carotenoids and saponins, which promote blood circulation and accelerate healing.
• Promoting wound healing: Marigold flowers can stimulate the formation of new tissue and reduce scarring. They also have an antibacterial and antifungal effect that can prevent or fight infections.
• Pain-relieving: Marigold flowers can help with mild to moderate pain, for example from injuries, osteoarthritis or gingivitis. They contain salicylic acid, which has a similar effect to aspirin, but without the side effects.
• Calming: Marigold flowers can have a relaxing effect on the nervous system and help with stress, anxiety or sleep disorders. They have a mild sedative effect, but do not lead to drowsiness.

How can marigold flowers be used for dogs?

Marigold flowers can be used both externally and internally for dogs. There are different ways to use them depending on the complaint:

• Externally: For skin problems, wounds or ear infections, you can make a decoction of marigold flowers and dab or soak the affected areas with it. To do this, boil about a tablespoon of dried or fresh flowers in a liter of water for 10 minutes and leave the decoction to cool. Alternatively, you can make an ointment from marigold oil and beeswax and apply it to the skin.
• Internally: For gastrointestinal complaints, liver and gall bladder problems or nervousness, you can make a tea from marigold flowers and mix it into your dog's drinking water or food. To do this, pour a cup of boiling water over about a teaspoon of dried or fresh flowers and leave the tea to infuse for 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also buy a powder made from dried flowers and add it to your dog's food.

How much marigold flowers can you give a dog?

The dosage of marigold flowers for dogs depends on the size, weight and health of the animal. In general, however, it is better to give too little than too much to avoid possible side effects. The following amounts can be used as a guide:

• Externally: The decoction or ointment can be applied to the affected areas several times a day until improvement occurs.
• Internally: You can give your dog about 0.5 to 1 gram of marigold flowers per 10 kilograms of body weight per day, either as tea, powder or oil.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of marigold flowers for dogs?

Marigold flowers are a natural and gentle way to support the health and well-being of dogs. They have the following benefits:

• Versatile: Marigold flowers can help with a variety of ailments, both externally and internally. They have a broad spectrum of action and can be used alone or in combination with other herbs.
• Tolerated: Marigold flowers are generally well tolerated and have little or no side effects. They are also suitable for sensitive or allergic dogs as long as they have no intolerance to composite flowers.
• Inexpensive: Marigold flowers are relatively inexpensive and easy to obtain. You can buy them in health food stores, pharmacies or online stores or even grow them yourself in the garden.

However, marigold flowers also have some disadvantages that you should be aware of:

• Not sufficient: marigold flowers are not a substitute for veterinary treatment. They can only have a supportive effect and alleviate the symptoms, but cannot eliminate the cause. In the case of serious or chronic illnesses, you should always consult a vet.
• Not for every dog: Marigold flowers are not suitable for every dog. They can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs, especially if they belong to the composite family. They can also interact with other medications, for example blood thinners or thyroid hormones. Care should be taken with pregnant or lactating bitches, as the effect on fertility or lactation is not known.
• Not too much: marigold flowers can have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or skin irritation if overdosed or used over a long period of time. You should therefore always adhere to the recommended dosage and limit the duration of use.