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Marigold


Calendula officinalis

Marigold

Other Names:

Bride Of The Sun, Bull Flower, Butterwort, Calendula Flower, Calendula Herb

Benefits

  • Antioxidant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Snake-repellent
  • Antiseptic
  • Antiviral
  • Insect-repellent
  • Antifungal
  • Wound-healing
  • Immunity
Flower petals from the pot marigold plant (Calendula officinalis) have been used in traditional medicines since the 12th century. The fresh or dried petals are often used topically and used in tinctures, ointments, and washes. C. officinalis is native to the Mediterranean but is now found worldwide as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. C. officinalis contains high levels of flavonoids. Specific applications studied in poultry include:
  • Snake-repellent: Marigold is said to contain chemicals which act as a natural snake repellent.
  • Egg quality: Marigold is known to increase the pigmentation of egg yolks in laying hens. Also, when it was supplemented in the diet at half the dosage (10 g/kg), it increased the shell strength of the egg, resulting in a significant increase in the saturated fatty acids but a decrease in total monounsaturated fatty acids.
  • Aroma: Marigold has a memorable, sweet, resin-like smell and it aroma has the ability to detract pests from neighboring plants.
  • Immune enhancer: C. officinalis water extract can reduce the immune response to three different viruses in chickens, associated with improvement in body weights.
  • Insect-repellent: Marigold flowers put off a distinctive smell which mosquitoes don't like. Positioning a potted marigold near coop entrances or surrounding the outdoor enclosure is helpful in keeping away mosquitoes.

Poultry Specific Studies

TypePlant PartDosageSpecific useResultsRef
Broilersextract0.075-0.6% dietantioxidantThere was no significant effect on growth performance.S Wang et al., 2017

References

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