- This plant has several uses due to its chemical components, medicinal and insecticidal properties.
Mexico commemorates the Day of the Dead every year from November 1 to 2, as part of an ancestral celebration that fuses pre-Hispanic and Catholic elements that is characterized by the creation of colorful altars adorned with photographs of the deceased, food, candles and flowers. of cempasuchil.
This plant, whose scientific name is Tagetes erectaoccupies a central place in these offerings. Its intense yellow-orange color has become a symbol of this tradition.
According to the Mexican government portal, the color of the flower represents the rays of the sun to guide the souls of the dead on their way back home during these days.
“Our ancestors associated the yellow color of the marigold flower with the sun, which is why they used it in offerings dedicated to their dead. Tradition calls for making paths with marigold flowers, from the main path to the altar of the house to guide the souls,” the letter reads. government explanation.
Furthermore, the use of marigolds in Day of the Dead celebrations dates back to pre-Hispanic civilizations. The Mexica, for example, associated this flower with death and used it in funeral rituals.
National Geographic explains that at that time it was believed that the sweet aroma of cempasuchil was capable of attracting the souls of the deceased.
Curiosities of the marigold flower
The cultivation of this plant has spread throughout several states of Mexico and its commercialization generates significant economic income for many communities.
“Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Michoacán are the ones with the best soil and climate conditions for marigold production. This flower only blooms after the rainy season,” details the Mexican government.
In addition to its role in Day of the Dead celebrations, this flower has medicinal properties. According to National Geographicthe petals are often used in infusions to relieve stomach upset, fever and respiratory problems.
In addition, it contains a high content of antioxidants, which is why it is also used as an ingredient in Mexican cuisine, especially to give color and sweet flavor to a variety of recipes.
Being a natural dye, the marigold flower is also used in the textile sector to dye natural fibers such as cotton, wool and silk.
Another of its uses is as a homemade insecticide, since its chemical compounds, such as thiophenes, act as a repellent by preventing pests from approaching plants and crops.
What other countries grow the marigold flower?
The National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) highlighted that although the marigold flower is native to Mexico, it has transcended borders and is cultivated in other countries.
In fact, UNAM revealed that China has positioned itself in recent years as the main world producer of this plant.
The flower is grown on a large scale, mainly for the extraction of pigments and dyes used in various industries. India, for its part, occupies second place in production, followed by Peru, where the plant is grown for both local consumption and export.
In the United States production is lower, especially it is grown in the border areas with Mexico to satisfy the demand of local markets.
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The marigold flower, known as “cempasuchil” in Mexico, holds significant cultural importance during the Day of the Dead celebrations. Here are some key points regarding its representation and uses:
### Significance on the Day of the Dead
– **Guide for Spirits**: The bright orange and yellow hues of the cempasuchil are believed to attract the spirits of the deceased, guiding them back to the realm of the living. The vibrant colors symbolize the sun and, by extension, the cycle of life and death.
– **Connection to Ancestors**: Cempasuchil creates beautiful altars (ofrendas) that honor deceased loved ones. Its presence reinforces the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds, celebrating life and remembrance.
### Cultural and Practical Uses
– **Cultivation and Economics**: The flower is cultivated extensively in states such as Guanajuato, Hidalgo, and Michoacán, contributing economically to local communities.
– **Medicinal Properties**: Cempasuchil is also recognized for its medicinal qualities. Its petals can be used in infusions for various ailments, including stomach issues and respiratory problems.
– **Culinary Uses**: In Mexican cuisine, cempasuchil petals add color and flavor to dishes and are used as a natural dye, enhancing the visual appeal of food.
– **Textile Dye**: The flower serves as a natural dye for textile fibers like cotton and silk, showcasing its versatility.
– **Natural Insect Repellent**: Its chemical compounds can act as homemade insecticides, helping protect crops from pests.
the cempasuchil not only enriches the cultural tapestry of Mexico during the Day of the Dead but also contributes to various facets of everyday life, from health to culinary traditions.
