The Magical Marigold and Those Crazy Chickens

Chickens love to eat marigolds. They think that they’re a yummy snack - but chickens have no idea how healthy marigolds really are and that’s generally because chickens just have no ideas at all! They’re chickens!

Marigolds contain powerful antioxidants which help keep chickens healthy and assist in fighting off diseases. They’re a natural immune booster for your flock. But there’s more!

Egg yolk is affected by the diet fed to hens. If chickens munch on marigolds it will help make the egg yolk a deep yellow.  But there’s even more!

Not only do marigolds produce richer yolks they also affect how healthy the eggs are to humans.  According to the Journal of Poultry Science, a study was done on the benefits of marigolds to eggs and they found that a chicken diet that includes marigolds will drop the cholesterol level in the egg as well. This means healthier hens AND healthier eggs for humans! It’s miraculous! Marigolds are also rich in carotenes and carotenoids, which is responsible for the flower’s vibrant yellow color and many medicinal properties. Marigolds contain Lutein, a type of carotenoid found in the flower, and is an important vitamin for maintaining eye health in humans and is an essential antioxidant for the eyes. Other unique benefits of marigold is its ability to fight inflammation and infection. Marigold contains active compounds such as flavonoids, triterpenes, saponins, salicylic acid and mucilage that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic and hydrating properties which are all good for humans.

And finally chicken manure is terrific as a soil amendment/fertilizer in your garden, in fact it’s one of the best! So spread it in your garden and feed that soil!

So marigolds (and chickens) in the garden ecosystem play the roles of nutritionist for chickens, people, and soil, as well as pest control!