Evidence supporting the use of: Marigold (unspecified)
For the health condition: Cold Sores

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Marigold, commonly referring to Calendula officinalis, has a longstanding history of use in traditional herbal medicine for various skin conditions, including wounds, minor burns, and inflammatory issues. Its use for cold sores, which are caused by the herpes simplex virus, is primarily rooted in traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation. Calendula preparations—such as ointments or tinctures—have been applied topically to support healing, reduce inflammation, and soothe discomfort associated with cold sores. The purported benefits are often attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties, as demonstrated in some laboratory and animal studies; however, these studies do not specifically address cold sores or herpes simplex infections. A few small clinical studies and case reports hint at potential benefits for herpes lesions, but these are limited in size, quality, and often combine marigold with other herbal ingredients, making it difficult to isolate its effects. No large-scale, high-quality clinical trials have confirmed marigold’s efficacy specifically for cold sores. Thus, while the use of marigold for cold sores is well established in traditional herbalism, scientific evidence supporting this practice remains limited and indirect.

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