Marigolds are great for natural pest repellent. Pyrethrin was actually originally synthesized from marigolds, and permethrin, commonly used to treat chickens from lice and mites, was derived from that.
Marigold extract is also often added to commercial feeds to improve yolk color, such as in Purina's Layena Omega 3 feed.
Good information on marigold benefits in chickens. The article certainly sparks interest toward further investigation into the way in which marigold impact chicken and egg health. I am interested in learning more about the way marigold reduces cholesterol in the egg from a consumer perspective. Also, what potential concerns, if any, would having a lower egg cholesterol content have on a fertilized egg and the chicks development. Reference needed.
Very informative, but more detail would be helpful. Should I consider giving my chickens the leaves as well as the flowers, for instance? I have smelled the leaves of all types of marigolds, from pot marigolds to the french and other types. They smell pretty strong and not appetizing to me. (of course, i don't eat grass either, or enjoy artemesia, both of which my hens love). Otherwise, a very good article. Thank you.
