Multifunctional applications of Tagetes species: From phytochemistry to sustainable crop protection and human health

Abstract

Tagetes spp (marigolds) is a genus of multifunctional plants that has been recognised to have ornamental, cultural, agricultural and therapeutic value. In the last ten years, the complex phytochemical profile of the genus, including thiophenes, flavonoids, terpenoids, carotenoids and essential oils, explaining a range of biological activities, has been characterised by intensive scientific research. These pharmacological activities include antifungal, antimicrobial, nematocidal, insecticidal, allelopathic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective and wound-healing activities. As a result, Tagetes spp have been put at the centre of bioresources at the nexus of sustainable agriculture, pharmacology and biotechnology. The recent advances in nanotechnology, synthetic analogues and agro-waste valorisation have expanded their functional use. However, most of the available research is limited to in vitro experiments with limited evidence on field experiments, in vivo models and clinical settings. Moreover, lack of standardised extraction methods, optimal dose schedules and the tiring ecological safety studies restrain the translational capacity of these plants. The current review is a synthesis of phytochemical, ecological and biomedical knowledge between 2015-2025, hence, provides a consistent framework of the rational utilisation of Tagetes spp in crop protection and human health.