English Marigolds
Origin & History
The English Marigold or calendula's genus name, wor calendae, means
"throughout the months."
A member of the marigold family, calendula was valued historically for its
medicinal and culinary uses. An ancient beverage made from a mixture of
calendula blossoms in wine was said to soothe indigestion. Calendula petals
were used in ointments that cured skin irritations, jaundice, sore eyes, and
toothaches. The Romans used calendula mixed with vinegar to season their
meat and salad dishes.
Sentiment & Symbolism
Early Christians called calendula "Mary's Gold," and placed it by the
statues of the Virgin Mary. The most sacred flower of ancient India,
calendula stems and flower heads were strung into garlands and placed around
the necks of holy statues.
Since the calendula's flower head follows the sun, it is sometimes called
"summer's bride" or "husbandman's dial." The calendula flower means "winning
grace" in the language of flowers.