Can I Make Tea from Marigolds? Your Guide to Safe Herbal Infusions

December 14, 2025 •

4 min read

Certain marigold varieties have been used historically in traditional medicine and cooking for centuries. A critical distinction, however, exists between ornamental garden marigolds and edible species, meaning correct identification is essential if you want to make tea from marigolds safely. This guide navigates the essential differences to ensure a pleasant and risk-free herbal experience.

Quick Summary

Yes, tea can be made from specific marigold varieties, especially Calendula officinalis and some Tagetes species. The plant must be correctly identified to avoid toxic types. Proper preparation of marigold petals for a flavorful herbal tea is explained, along with potential health benefits and precautions.

Key Points

Edible Varieties Matter: Only certain types, primarily Calendula officinalis and specific Tagetes like Signet marigolds, are safe for consumption.
Toxic Lookalikes: Never use common ornamental French or African marigolds (Tagetes species) or the poisonous Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris) for tea.
Source is Key: Always use marigolds grown organically and without pesticides to avoid chemical contamination.
Preparation is Simple: The process involves harvesting petals, drying them thoroughly, and steeping them in hot water.
Consider Health Factors: Pregnant women and individuals with allergies to the daisy family should avoid marigold tea.
Beneficial Properties: Properly brewed marigold tea offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting benefits.

Can I Make Tea from Marigolds? A Guide to Edible Varieties

The Critical Distinction Between Calendula and Tagetes

Many plants are called "marigolds," but they belong to different genera with vastly different properties. The most important distinction for tea-making is between Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, and the Tagetes genus, which includes common French and African marigolds.

Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold): This is the medicinal and edible flower used to make calendula tea. Its petals are mild-flavored and rich in antioxidants, with a centuries-long history in herbal medicine for soothing inflammation and aiding digestion.
Tagetes (Garden Marigolds): This genus includes French (Tagetes patula) and African (Tagetes erecta) marigolds. While the petals of some Tagetes are technically edible in moderation, they often have a more pungent and bitter flavor. More importantly, some Tagetes species and other plants, like the poisonous Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris), are toxic and must be avoided. Always be certain of your plant's species before consumption.

Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing Marigold Tea

Here is how to brew a safe and flavorful herbal tea using edible marigold petals.

Harvest Properly: Select healthy, vibrant, and fully bloomed flowers from an edible marigold variety, like Calendula officinalis. Harvest in the morning after the dew has dried. Ensure the plants have not been treated with any pesticides or chemicals.
Dry the Petals: To preserve the flavor and medicinal properties, gently pluck the petals from the flower heads and spread them on a mesh screen or parchment paper. Place them in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. The petals are ready when they are completely dry and brittle. You can also use a dehydrator on a low setting.
Prepare the Tea: Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried petals (or 3-4 fresh ones) into a tea ball, infuser, or directly into a heatproof mug.
Steep: Pour one cup of boiling water over the petals and let it steep for 5-10 minutes. The longer you steep, the more potent the tea will be.
Serve and Sweeten: Strain the petals if necessary. You can enjoy the tea plain or add a touch of honey or a squeeze of lemon to complement the flavor profile.

Potential Health Benefits and Important Precautions

Marigold tea, particularly when made with Calendula officinalis, is known for its range of potential wellness benefits.

Health Benefits of Marigold Tea

Anti-inflammatory: The tea is rich in flavonoids and other compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help soothe digestive issues and reduce swelling.
Antioxidant-Rich: High in carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, marigold tea offers potent antioxidant effects that help combat oxidative stress and support eye health.
Immune Support: The presence of flavonoids and other active compounds contributes to the tea's antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, boosting the immune system.
Promotes Skin Health: Consumed internally or used topically as a compress, calendula tea can aid in healing wounds, soothing skin irritations, and promoting overall skin health.

Safety Precautions

Despite the benefits, certain individuals should avoid marigold tea.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Marigold is known to stimulate uterine contractions and should be avoided by pregnant women. Nursing mothers should also consult a doctor.
Allergies: Individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (daisies, ragweed, chrysanthemums) may experience allergic reactions.
Medication Interactions: Calendula may interact with sedative medications and should be used with caution by those on such treatments.

Comparison of Edible Marigold Varieties for Tea


Feature	Calendula (Pot Marigold)	Signet Marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia)	Mexican Mint Marigold (Tagetes lucida)
Flavor Profile	Mild, peppery, slightly earthy	Citrusy, spicy	Anise-like, similar to tarragon
Best For	Medicinal teas, soothing infusions	Flavoring fruity and vibrant tea blends	Culinary use, tarragon substitute in savory teas
Petals Used	Whole petals and flowers	Petals and leaves	Leaves and flowers
Caution	Generally safe; avoid if pregnant or allergic to daisies	Safe for consumption; avoid if treated with pesticides	Safe in moderation; may cause skin irritation in some
Common Use	Traditional herbal remedies, skin healing	Culinary garnishes, flavored drinks	Cooking herb, savory infusions

Conclusion: Making Marigold Tea Safely and Enjoyably

So, can you make tea from marigolds? The answer is a qualified yes, provided you use the correct, edible variety. By specifically choosing Calendula officinalis or certain Tagetes species like Signet or Mexican Mint marigolds, you can create a safe and beneficial herbal tea. The key to a good experience is proper identification, responsible harvesting from pesticide-free sources, and being mindful of your individual health conditions. With the right knowledge, this humble garden flower can be transformed into a soothing and healthful infusion, enjoyed for its subtle flavor and therapeutic properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all marigold tea is safe to drink. You must use edible varieties like Calendula officinalis (pot marigold) or Signet marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia). Common ornamental marigolds, especially French and African varieties, can be toxic and are not suitable for consumption.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as pot marigold, is a separate genus from common marigolds (Tagetes species), though they are in the same plant family. Calendula is widely considered edible and medicinal, while many Tagetes varieties are not.

Marigold tea, particularly from calendula, is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, promote skin healing, and boost the immune system.

To ensure your marigolds are safe, correctly identify the species using a botanical guide or by checking the seed packet, ensuring it is an edible variety like Calendula officinalis. Always use flowers grown organically, free from any chemical pesticides.

Yes, you can use fresh marigold petals for tea. Use about 3-4 fresh flower blooms per cup of boiling water and steep for about 5 minutes for a delicious infusion. For long-term use, drying the petals is recommended.

Marigold tea has a slightly different flavor depending on the variety. Calendula tea has a mild, earthy, and sometimes peppery taste, while Signet marigold tea offers a more distinct, citrusy flavor.

Yes, excessive consumption may cause digestive upset. Pregnant women should avoid it due to the risk of stimulating uterine contractions. People allergic to the daisy family should also exercise caution. It is always best to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are on other medications.