Marsh Marigold vs Iris Pallida

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Marsh Marigold

Caltha palustris

Skin and Topical

Iris pallida

Skin and Topical

Marsh Marigold

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Iris Pallida

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Bright yellow wetland plant of northern hemisphere; flower buds historically pickled as capers; leaves used cautiously in folk medicine.

Native to the Dalmatian coast, Iris pallida rhizomes are the primary source of orris root in perfumery and herbal medicine.

Active Compounds

protoanemonin, ranunculin, flavonoids, saponins

irone alpha, irisone, isoflavones, terpenoids

Traditional Uses

Flower buds pickled as food substitute, Historical treatment of warts topically, Diuretic in folk medicine, Poultice for bruises

diuretic, emetic, skin preparations, chest congestion

Modern Uses

Diuretic folk use, Skin conditions topically, Wetland ecology indicator

topical skin care, aromatic therapy, flavoring

Adult Dosage

Topical preparations only; flower buds only safe when thoroughly cooked

1–2g dried powder daily

Contraindications

Fresh plant ingestion, Pregnancy, Kidney disease

pregnancy, internal use caution, kidney issues

Side Effects

Severe mucous membrane irritation, Blistering, GI toxicity from fresh plant

irritation, nausea

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E