Synopsis

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

Marigold, particularly Calendula officinalis, has a long-standing history in traditional medicine for treating skin conditions, including fungal infections like athlete's foot (tinea pedis). Folk and herbal medicine traditions, especially in Europe, have used marigold preparations topically for their purported anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and wound-healing properties. There are anecdotal reports and herbalist recommendations that suggest marigold extracts or ointments may help soothe the symptoms of athlete's foot, such as redness, irritation, and minor infections. However, scientific validation for marigold's efficacy specifically against the fungi responsible for athlete's foot (primarily Trichophyton species) is limited. While several in vitro studies have demonstrated that Calendula extracts possess general antifungal and antimicrobial activity, direct clinical trials evaluating marigold's effectiveness for athlete's foot are lacking. Thus, while traditional use is well established, and some laboratory data suggest potential, high-quality clinical evidence is insufficient. As a result, marigold is not considered a first-line or evidence-based treatment for athlete's foot in modern medical practice, but it remains a popular choice in herbal and alternative medicine contexts.

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