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

Applications and Uses

Tagetes is used somewhat in aromatherapy and as an insect repellent.

Tagetes blends well with

Precautions / Contraindications

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, and is potentially phototoxic.
See also Essential Oils Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See Aromatherapy References and Resources page.

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