Marigolds are a popular garden flower known for their bright colors and ability to repel pests. While marigolds are not poisonous, eating them does come with some risks. Here’s a quick look at what might happen if you eat a marigold flower.
Upset stomach
One of the most likely effects of eating marigolds is an upset stomach. The petals and leaves can be difficult to digest and may cause nausea, cramping, or diarrhea. This is generally mild, but eating a large quantity could aggravate symptoms.
Allergic reaction
Some people may have an allergic reaction to marigolds. This is more common in people who already have plant or pollen allergies. Symptoms could include itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience a severe reaction.
Interference with medications
Marigolds contain chemicals like lutein, zeaxanthin, and flavonoids. While these have health benefits, they could potentially interact with certain medications like blood thinners and cholesterol or blood pressure drugs. Check with your doctor before eating marigolds, especially in large amounts.
Health Benefits
While eating marigolds does come with some risks, the flowers may also provide some health benefits when consumed. Here are a few of the ways marigolds could be good for you:
Antioxidants
Marigolds contain antioxidant compounds like carotenoids and polyphenols. Antioxidants help protect against cell damage from unstable molecules called free radicals. This may offer protection against certain diseases.
Anti-inflammatory effects
The anti-inflammatory properties in marigolds may help reduce swelling, pain, and redness. The flavonoids in particular help inhibit inflammation. This could be beneficial for conditions like arthritis, injuries, or skin irritation.
Eye health
Marigolds are very high in lutein and zeaxanthin, two compounds important for eye health. They help filter harmful blue light and protect the eyes from damage. Eating marigolds may help reduce risk of eye diseases like macular degeneration.
Parts of the Marigold Plant
Marigolds have several parts that can be eaten, though some are safer to consume than others. Here is an overview of the marigold’s edible parts:
Petals
The vibrant petals are the most popular edible part of marigolds. They have a mildly spicy, citrus-like flavor. The petals can be eaten fresh in salads or as a garnish. They are also sometimes dried or candied.
Leaves
The leaves have a more bitter, strong taste than the petals. They are not as pleasant to eat fresh but can be cooked into stews, soups, or sauces to mellow the flavor. Leaves likely have higher concentrations of beneficial compounds.
Stems
The stems are not typically consumed as they are quite fibrous. However, the stems may be cooked thoroughly to extract some beneficial compounds into broths or stocks. Avoid eating the stems raw.
Flowers
The entire marigold flower can be eaten, though the bitter calyx should be removed. Try adding whole flowers to salads for visual appeal and flavor. Cooked flowers retain more antioxidant activity than raw ones.
How to Safely Eat Marigolds
If you want to eat marigolds, there are some safety precautions to take. Here are some tips for safely consuming marigolds:
Start small
Only eat a small amount of marigolds at first to assess your tolerance. Watch for any signs of allergic reaction or digestive upset. Introduce them slowly into your diet.
Pick pesticide-free flowers
Choose organically grown marigolds or flowers you have grown yourself without pesticides. Chemical residues could be toxic in concentrated amounts. Wash flowers thoroughly before eating.
Remove bitter parts
The calyx or green parts attached to the flower base have a bitter taste. Removing this part reduces bitterness and improves flavor. Discard any damaged or discolored petals as well.
Monitor medication interactions
Consult your doctor about potential medication interactions, especially if taking blood thinners or drugs impacting cholesterol, blood pressure, or blood sugar. Adjust dosage if needed.
Cook when possible
Cooking marigold flowers can maximize nutritional value and improve the taste. Heat helps break down compounds that may cause GI upset when eaten raw.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
Along with the benefits, there are also some potential side effects to be aware of when eating marigolds:
Allergies
Those with known allergies to plants like daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed could be allergic to marigolds. Discontinue use if any sign of allergic reaction.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Marigolds may stimulate uterine contractions. Pregnant or nursing women should exercise caution and consult their doctor before consuming.
Surgery
Marigolds could interfere with blood clotting and may need to be stopped 2-3 weeks before a scheduled surgery. Be sure to discuss marigold use with your surgeon.
Skin irritation
The flavonoids in marigolds may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Wear sunscreen and limit exposure if eating marigolds regularly.
Digestive issues
Excess consumption, especially of raw flowers, could result in nausea, cramping, bloating, or diarrhea. Reduce amount eaten if digestion is disrupted.
Toxicity
All parts of the marigold plant are considered non-toxic. However, very large doses may have harmful effects:
Liver and kidney damage
Animal studies using extremely high doses of marigold extract noted potential toxic effects on the liver and kidneys. However, normal culinary consumption is not a concern.
Neurotoxicity
Some older research showed neurotoxic effects from medicinal-grade concentrated marigold chemicals. But this again requires doses far exceeding normal consumption.
Allergic reactions
While rare, anaphylaxis is possible in those with allergies. Seek emergency care if you experience swollen lips, tongue, throat, or difficulty breathing after consuming marigolds.
Drug interactions
Marigolds may enhance the effects of sedative, blood pressure, and anticoagulant medications. This may require adjusting dosages. Work with your doctor if taking prescription medications.
| Parts of the Marigold Plant | Edibility and Uses |
|---|---|
| Petals | Edible fresh, dried, or candied. Add to salads or as a garnish. |
| Leaves | Edible when cooked. Use in soups, stews, or sauces. |
| Stems | Inedible raw. Cook to extract beneficial compounds into broths or stocks. |
| Flowers | Entire flowers can be eaten cooked or raw. Remove bitter base first. |
Recipes and Preparation
Here are a few serving ideas and recipes for eating marigolds:
Salads
Add fresh petals to green, grain, pasta, or fruit salads. Combine with lettuces, citrus segments, berries, cheese, and nuts or seeds. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette.
Saut??ed
Saute chopped leaves in olive oil and garlic. Toss with pasta or rice along with vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes. Sprinkle with parmesan.
Soup
Simmer leaves, stems and flowers in chicken or vegetable broth with carrots, onions, and potatoes to create a colorful, antioxidant-rich soup. Pur??e if desired for smooth texture.
Tea
Steep dried petals in hot water for a few minutes to release beneficial compounds. Sweeten with honey and sip as an herbal tea.
Butter
Blend fresh marigold petals into softened, room-temperature butter. Spread on breads and muffins or use for cooking. Lovely on corn on the cob!
Jelly
Boil marigold petals in water then strain. Mix the infused tea with an equal amount of sugar and boil until thickened. Pour into jars and refrigerate to set.
Candied flowers
Brush flowers with egg white and dredge in granulated sugar. Dehydrate at low temperature until crisp. Enjoy as a cake topping or snack.
Availability and Selection
Marigolds can be purchased or grown in many areas. Here are some tips for finding and selecting fresh marigolds for eating:
Growing marigolds
For the best quality and availability, consider planting marigolds in your own garden. Choose heirloom varieties best suited for culinary use.
Farmers markets
Seek out marigold bunches at local farmers markets during summer and fall months. Both edible flowers and leaves can often be found.
Specialty/ethnic markets
Markets carrying Hispanic, Asian, or Middle Eastern specialty produce may sell marigolds for culinary use. More common in warmer climates.
Online
Various online retailers sell dried marigold petals suitable for making tea, butter, jelly, and other projects. Check reviews for quality products.
Storage
Store fresh marigolds wrapped in paper towels in an open container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Freeze dried petals in airtight containers.
Nutrition Facts
Marigolds provide beneficial nutrients and antioxidants, though amounts can vary based on plant part consumed. Here are some of the main active components:
Vitamin C
Important for immune function and collagen production. Fresh edible flowers offer around 20-25mg vitamin C per 100g.
Carotenoids
Includes antioxidant compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin. These support eye health and may protect against heart disease and cancer.
Polyphenols
Anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids, phenolic acids and lignans. Concentrated more in leaves than petals and flowers.
Vitamin A
In the form of antioxidant beta-carotene. 100g of leaves provides over 100% RDI vitamin A. Flowers have lower amounts.
Calcium
Needed for bone health and muscle function. Leaves offer around 310mg calcium per 100g cooked, supporting strong bones.
| Marigold Part | Key Nutrients |
|---|---|
| Flowers | Vitamin C, carotenoids, polyphenols |
| Leaves | Vitamin A, calcium, polyphenols |
| Stems | Small amounts of polyphenols |
Conclusion
Marigolds are non-toxic, edible flowers that can add flavor, color, and nutrition to your diet. The vibrant petals have a citrusy, spicy taste that works well in salads, teas, butters and more. The leaves, stems and entire flowers can also be eaten cooked.
While harmless in normal food amounts, very high doses may have toxic effects so moderation is key. Those with allergies and pregnant women should be especially cautious. But for most people, marigolds can be a safe and novel way to add antioxidants, eye-healthy carotenoids, and anti-inflammatory compounds to meals and treats. Grow your own or look for marigolds at farmers markets and specialty stores to brighten up both gardens and the dinner plate.
