Tagetes Essential Oil
Latin name Tagetes glandulifera, T minuta - Family species Asteraceae (Compositea)
Tagetes — also known by the common names marigolds, stinkweeds, and wild marigolds — should not to be confused with Calendula (C. officinalis) “Pot Marigold”.
According to Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils and Aromatherapy by Susan Worwood, “In Uganda it [Tagetes] is used to treat and deter disease and insects. The oil in a 5% dilution has been used to kill maggots in open wounds as well as other ticks and parasites. Tagetes is an ingredient of many foot treatment preparations.”
It is warned that Tagetes essential oil should be used with extreme care and in very small quantities, if at all.
Oil Selection Guide
Color - Yellow amber to red amber
Viscosity - Medium (thickening when exposed to air)
Scent - Fruity, herby
Perfume Aroma - Top / middle note
Oil Source Information
Plant Type - Plant
Parts Used - Leaves, stalks, flowers
Countries of Origin - South Africa, Argentina, France, Nepal, India
Extraction Method - Steam distillation
Known Chemical Constituents
Ocimenes, dihydrotagetone, thymol
Uses of Tagetes
Tagetes is used somewhat in aromatherapy and as an insect repellent.
Tagetes blends well with
Special Precautions*
It is warned that Tagetes oil should only be used in moderation, if at all.
It is also said that Tagetes should be completely avoided if pregnant and warnings state not to use on or around children under 16 years of age.
Tagetes can cause irritation to sensitive skin.
Tagetes oil is potentially phototoxic.
* See Safety and Usage.
