Cosmos sulphureus (Asteraceae) Sulphur Cosmos, Yellow Cosmos

Cosmos sulphureus is a vibrant flowering plant native to Mexico and Central America, now naturalized across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is valued in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and antinociceptive properties. The plant has gained significant scientific attention for its rich polyphenolic profile, particularly its high content of chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, and quercetin. Recent research from 2023 to 2025 has validated its potent antioxidant activity, demonstrated its antidiabetic potential through α-glucosidase inhibition, and confirmed its antinociceptive effects mediated through opioid receptor pathways. The edible flowers are also being explored as natural food preservatives and sources of natural dyes.

1. Taxonomic Insights

Species: Cosmos sulphureus Cav.

Family: Asteraceae (Compositae)

Taxonomic Note: The species was first described by Antonio José Cavanilles in 1791. The genus name Cosmos is derived from the Greek word kosmos meaning ordered, harmonious, or beautiful, referring to the orderly arrangement of petals. The specific epithet sulphureus refers to the sulphur-yellow color of its flowers. Mexico is considered the center of diversification of the Asteraceae family, with 417 genera and 3113 species recorded nationally, of which 3050 are native. The genus Cosmos comprises 33 species and four varieties found in Mexico, with distribution extending from the United States to northern Argentina.

The Asteraceae family, commonly known as the aster, daisy, or sunflower family, is one of the largest families of flowering plants. It is characterized by composite flower heads (capitula) surrounded by involucral bracts, with individual florets arranged on a receptacle. This family is medicinally significant for its diverse array of sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds.

Related Herbs from the Same Family:

· Cosmos bipinnatus (Garden Cosmos): A closely related ornamental species with similar phytochemical profiles, also investigated for its hepatoprotective and antioxidant properties.

· Artemisia annua (Sweet Wormwood): The source of artemisinin, a potent antimalarial drug, demonstrating the family's significance in drug discovery.

· Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower): A well-known immunomodulatory herb used for preventing and treating upper respiratory infections.

· Matricaria chamomilla (German Chamomile): A classic medicinal herb valued for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and sedative properties.

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2. Common Names

Scientific Name: Cosmos sulphureus Cav. | English: Sulphur Cosmos, Yellow Cosmos, Orange Cosmos, Klondike Cosmos | Spanish: Girasol, Mirasol Amarillo | Nepali: पुतली फूल (Putali Phool) | Mexican: Girasol (used in traditional medicine) | Chinese: 硫华菊 (Liú huá jú) | Thai: ดาวเรือง (Dao Rueang) | Hindi: Not documented in classical texts, known regionally as an ornamental. | Other Regional Names: The flower heads were used by pre-Columbian civilizations in Central and South America as sources of yellow to orange dyes for wool.

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3. Medicinal Uses

Primary Actions: Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antinociceptive (pain-relieving), Antidiabetic, Hepatoprotective, Antimicrobial.

Secondary Actions: Antifungal, Antimalarial, Gastroprotective, Vasorelaxant, Dye source.

Medicinal Parts:

The flowers, leaves, and rhizomes are used medicinally.

· Flowers: The most extensively used and studied part. Rich in flavonoids (rutin, quercetin) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid). Used for anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and antidiabetic purposes. The edible flowers are also used in gourmet cuisine as garnishes and in salads.

· Leaves: Contain terpenoids, tannins, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. Used in traditional medicine and studied for antioxidant activity.

· Rhizomes: Used in the treatment of malaria in certain traditional medicine systems.

· Whole Plant: Extracts have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory animal experiments with induced gastric ulcer, liver inflammation, or arthritis-type swelling.

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4. Phytochemicals Specific to the Plant and Their Action

Quantitative analysis of C. sulphureus has revealed a rich phytochemical profile dominated by polyphenolic compounds.

· Phenolic Acids (Chlorogenic acid, Caffeic acid): Identified through HPTLC analysis. These compounds exhibit potent Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, and Hepatoprotective activities. Chlorogenic acid is also known for its antidiabetic effects through α-glucosidase inhibition.

· Flavonoids (Rutin, Quercetin, Apigenin): Rutin and quercetin are the major flavonoids identified. These compounds provide Antioxidant activity through free radical scavenging, Anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators, and Vasorelaxant properties contributing to cardiovascular health. Apigenin was tentatively identified in LC-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction.

· Terpenoids (Germacrene A, Phytol, β-caryophyllene): Present in various plant organs. Germacrene A, a sesquiterpene, is detected in highest concentrations in stems and roots and exhibits Allelopathic properties. Phytol, a diterpenoid found in leaves, possesses Phytotoxic and Antimicrobial properties. These terpenoids contribute to the plant's pesticidal and herbicidal potential.

· Tannins (Condensed Tannins): Quantified as 26.12 ± 4.36 mg CE/g extract in methanolic flower extract and 14.33 ± 1.64 mg CE/g in ethanolic flower extract. Provide Astringent, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant properties.

· Fatty Acids (Hexadecanoic acid/Palmitic acid): Identified in GC-MS analysis, contributing to the plant's allelopathic and potential antimicrobial activities.

· Other Compounds: Phytochemical screening confirms the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids while showing absence of alkaloids, saponins, glycosides, and anthraquinones.

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5. Traditional and Ethnobotanical Uses Covering the Medicinal Uses

Jwara (Fever) & Malaria

Formulation: Rhizome decoction or extract.

Preparation & Use: The rhizomes are used in the treatment of malaria in traditional medicine systems, particularly in regions where the plant is endemic.

Reasoning: The plant extracts have demonstrated the ability to inhibit bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The presence of terpenoids and other bioactive compounds may contribute to antiplasmodial activity, though specific studies on antimalarial mechanisms are ongoing.

Shotha (Inflammation) & Gastric Ulcers

Formulation: Whole plant extract (oral administration).

Preparation & Use: Traditional medicinal applications in China and Mexico utilize Cosmos extracts to treat inflammatory conditions. Laboratory animal experiments have demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects in models with induced gastric ulcer, liver inflammation, or arthritis-type swelling.

Reasoning: Modern research validates this use. The anti-inflammatory activity is attributed to the high content of flavonoids (rutin, quercetin) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid) which inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators and protect gastric mucosa.

Yakrit Vikara (Liver Disorders)

Formulation: Plant extract, traditionally as a decoction.

Preparation & Use: Ethno-medicinally, Cosmos sulphureus is used for its hepatoprotective effects. Both C. sulphureus and C. bipinnatus have been studied for their liver-protective potential.

Reasoning: Studies conclude that both plants may possess hepatoprotective activity, possibly due to the presence of quercetin and other phenolic compounds. These antioxidants protect hepatocytes from oxidative damage and support liver regeneration.

Vedana (Pain) & Antinociceptive Activity

Formulation: Flower extracts (ethanolic, aqueous, hydroalcoholic).

Preparation & Use: In traditional medicine, flower extracts are used for pain relief. A 2024 study specifically screened C. sulphureus flower extracts for antinociceptive activity.

Reasoning: The flower extracts possess significant antinociceptive properties that are mediated through central and peripheral pathways. The mechanism involves opioid receptor activation, demonstrating both peripheral and central antinociception. This provides scientific validation for the traditional use of the plant in pain management.

Madhumeha (Diabetes Mellitus)

Formulation: Hydroalcoholic extract of inflorescences; flower-based preparations.

Preparation & Use: Edible flowers from Cosmos sulphureus are used in some world regions due to their potential antidiabetic activities.

Reasoning: A 2023 pharmacological evaluation demonstrated significant α-glucosidase inhibition by the ethyl acetate fraction (41 ± 0.6%) and butanol fraction (76.6 ± 1.03%) of the hydroalcoholic extract. α-glucosidase inhibitors reduce postprandial blood glucose spikes by delaying carbohydrate absorption, making this a key mechanism in diabetes management. The activity was contrasted with Camellia sinensis extract (96.3 ± 1.22%), a well-characterized natural α-glucosidase inhibitor.

Rakta Dhatu (Blood Health) & Vasorelaxation

Formulation: Flower extracts (ethyl acetate fraction).

Preparation & Use: Traditional applications include uses related to circulatory health.

Reasoning: The ethyl acetate fraction of the hydroalcoholic extract demonstrated the best vasorelaxant effect (Emax = 91.40%; EC50 = 130.88 µg/mL) in a partially endothelium-dependent manner using isolated rat aortic rings. This suggests potential antihypertensive and cardiovascular benefits.

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6. Healing Recipes, Decoctions, and Preparations

Antioxidant Flower Infusion

Purpose: General wellness, anti-inflammatory support, and antioxidant protection.

Preparation & Use:

1. Take 1-2 teaspoons (approximately 2-4 grams) of dried Cosmos sulphureus flowers.

2. Steep in 250 ml of hot water (not boiling) for 10-15 minutes, covered.

3. Strain and drink once or twice daily. This gentle infusion provides the benefits of the plant's polyphenolic compounds.

Ethanol-Based Tincture (for Antioxidant Preservation)

Purpose: To extract a broader range of bioactive compounds for therapeutic use.

Preparation & Use:

1. Fill a jar with fresh or dried Cosmos sulphureus flowers.

2. Cover completely with 70% ethanol or high-proof vodka.

3. Seal and store in a dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.

4. Strain and store in amber glass bottles. Use under professional guidance for dosage.

Topical Anti-inflammatory Poultice

Purpose: For localized inflammation, skin irritations, and minor wounds.

Preparation & Use:

1. Crush fresh Cosmos sulphureus leaves or flowers into a smooth paste.

2. Apply directly to the affected area, cover with a clean cloth, and leave for 30-60 minutes.

3. Rinse with warm water. Use once or twice daily as needed.

Hepatoprotective Decoction

Purpose: Supportive therapy for liver health.

Preparation & Use:

1. Take 5-10 grams of dried Cosmos sulphureus aerial parts (leaves and flowers).

2. Simmer in 500 ml of water for 15-20 minutes.

3. Strain and drink 100-150 ml once daily for short-term use. Use under professional supervision.

Natural Yellow Dye Preparation (Ethnobotanical Use)

Purpose: Traditional dyeing of wool and textiles.

Preparation & Use:

1. Collect fresh or dried Cosmos sulphureus flower heads.

2. Simmer in water for 30-60 minutes to extract the yellow to orange pigments.

3. Strain the liquid and use as a natural dye bath for wool or other natural fibers.

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7. In-Depth Phytochemical Profile and Clinical Significance of Cosmos sulphureus (Sulphur Cosmos)

Introduction

Cosmos sulphureus, the Sulphur Cosmos, is a remarkable example of a plant that bridges ornamental beauty, traditional medicine, and modern pharmacological science. Native to the warm regions of the Americas, this vibrant yellow-flowered species has spread across the globe, not only as a garden favorite but also as a subject of intense scientific investigation. Its traditional applications in Mexican and other folk medicines for inflammation, liver disorders, and pain have been rigorously validated by recent research, particularly from 2023 to 2025. The plant's therapeutic identity is shaped by a rich polyphenolic arsenal, dominated by flavonoids (rutin, quercetin, apigenin) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid), distinctively characterized by the absence of alkaloids and saponins. Recent breakthroughs have demonstrated its potent antinociceptive effects mediated through opioid receptor pathways, its significant α-glucosidase inhibition for diabetes management, and its exceptional antioxidant capacity comparable to standard agents. C. sulphureus stands as a compelling example of how common ornamental plants can harbor significant medicinal potential.

1. Phenolic Compounds and Flavonoids: The Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Vanguard

Key Compounds: Chlorogenic acid, Caffeic acid (phenolic acids); Rutin, Quercetin, Apigenin (flavonoids).

Quantitative Profile (2023 Study): The methanolic extract of flowers showed the highest total phenolic content (TPC) at 110.94 ± 1.89 mg GAE/g, followed by methanolic leaf extract at 84.65 ± 1.33 mg GAE/g. Ethanolic flower extract showed TPC of 61.54 ± 1.10 mg GAE/g, and ethanolic leaf extract at 37.67 ± 1.76 mg GAE/g. Total flavonoid content (TFC) followed a similar pattern, with methanolic flower extract at 106.04 ± 3.40 mg QE/g, methanolic leaf extract at 70.91 ± 2.49 mg QE/g, ethanolic flower extract at 54.27 ± 2.55 mg QE/g, and ethanolic leaf extract at 25.42 ± 2.13 mg QE/g. Condensed tannin content was highest in methanolic flower extract at 26.12 ± 4.36 mg CE/g.

A 2023 Argentine study on ethanol-water extracts of flowers reported a yield of 5.03%, TPC of 7.83 mg GAE/g sample, and DPPH antioxidant activity IC50 of 0.897 mg/mL. The aqueous extract showed lower yield (1.03%) and TPC (1.98 mg GAE/g) but better DPPH activity (IC50 0.248 mg/mL).

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Antioxidant (Potent and Multi-Mechanistic): The high phenolic and flavonoid content translates directly into robust antioxidant capacity. C. sulphureus extracts have demonstrated relevant free radical scavenging activity, ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), lipid peroxidation inhibition ability, and oxygen radical antioxidant capacity (ORAC). This multi-faceted antioxidant protection is fundamental to the plant's hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties.

· Anti-inflammatory (Validated): Flavonoids like quercetin and rutin are well-documented inhibitors of pro-inflammatory pathways. The plant's traditional use for arthritis-type swelling and gastric ulcers is supported by this mechanism. The anti-inflammatory effect is also linked to the plant's ability to protect gastric mucosa, as demonstrated in animal models with induced gastric ulcers.

· Antinociceptive (2024 Breakthrough): A 2024 pharmacological screening study specifically evaluated C. sulphureus, Ruellia simplex, and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis flower extracts for antinociceptive activity. The flower extracts demonstrated significant antinociceptive properties mediated through central and peripheral pathways via opioid receptor activation. This provides a direct scientific basis for traditional use in pain management.

2. Antidiabetic and Vasorelaxant Activity: The Metabolic and Cardiovascular Arm

Key Study (2023 Pharmacological Evaluation): A comprehensive study evaluated the hydroalcoholic extract of C. sulphureus inflorescences and its fractions for α-glucosidase inhibition and vasorelaxant effects.

Quantitative Efficacy - α-glucosidase Inhibition: The butanol fraction showed the most potent α-glucosidase inhibition at 76.6 ± 1.03%, followed by the ethyl acetate fraction at 41 ± 0.6%. These were contrasted with Camellia sinensis extract at 96.3 ± 1.22%, a well-characterized natural α-glucosidase inhibitor.

Quantitative Efficacy - Vasorelaxant Effect: The ethyl acetate fraction demonstrated the best vasorelaxant effect with Emax of 91.40% and EC50 of 130.88 µg/mL in a partially endothelium-dependent manner using isolated rat aortic rings precontracted with noradrenaline.

LC-MS Identification: LC-MS chromatogram and mass spectrum analysis from the ethyl acetate fraction allowed tentative identification of apigenin, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid as the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects.

Actions and Clinical Relevance:

· Antidiabetic (α-glucosidase Inhibition): The potent inhibition of α-glucosidase by the butanol and ethyl acetate fractions represents a significant finding for diabetes management. By delaying the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into absorbable sugars, these fractions reduce postprandial blood glucose spikes, a cornerstone of type 2 diabetes management. The presence of chlorogenic acid, a known α-glucosidase inhibitor, supports this mechanism.

· Antihypertensive (Vasorelaxant): The significant vasorelaxant effect of the ethyl acetate fraction (91.40% relaxation) suggests potential for managing hypertension. The partial endothelium-dependent mechanism indicates involvement of nitric oxide pathways, though additional endothelium-independent pathways may also contribute.

3. Allelopathic and Bioherbicidal Potential (2025 Discovery)

Key Study (2025 GC-MS Analysis): A 2025 study used GC-MS with n-hexane extraction to identify allelochemical compounds in C. sulphureus organs.

Identified Compounds: The study identified diverse secondary metabolites with allelopathic activities, including terpenoids (germacrene A), fatty acids (hexadecanoic acid/palmitic acid), and phenols. The highest concentrations of germacrene A were detected in stems and roots, while leaves were rich in phytol, a diterpenoid with phytotoxic properties.

Significance: These findings highlight the potential of C. sulphureus as a sustainable bioherbicide for weed management. The identified allelochemicals can inhibit the germination and growth of competing plant species, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic herbicides.

4. Food Science and Natural Preservative Applications (2023 Argentine Study)

Key Study (2023 Argentine Research): A study from Paso de la Patria, Corrientes, Argentina, evaluated ethanol-water and aqueous extracts of C. sulphureus flowers cultivated and harvested locally for use as natural food preservatives.

Findings: The ethanolic extract showed superior antioxidant capacity (IC50 0.897 mg/mL, DPPH method) and higher total phenolic content (7.83 mg GAE/g sample) compared to the aqueous extract, which had an IC50 of 0.248 mg/mL but lower TPC (1.98 mg GAE/g). The ethanol extract also had a higher extraction yield (5.03%) versus the aqueous extract (1.03%).

Significance: This research positions C. sulphureus flower extracts as a new natural alternative to synthetic antioxidants for food preservation, addressing consumer demand for clean-label, natural preservatives.

5. Traditional Validation Summary

Anti-inflammatory and Gastroprotective: Traditional use for gastric ulcers, liver inflammation, and arthritis-type swelling is supported by laboratory animal experiments showing potent anti-inflammatory effects.

Hepatoprotective: Both C. sulphureus and C. bipinnatus demonstrate hepatoprotective activity, attributed to quercetin and other phenolic compounds.

Antimicrobial and Antifungal: Traditional use for inhibiting bacteria, fungi, and viruses is supported by preliminary studies, though more specific research is needed.

An Integrated View of Healing in Cosmos sulphureus

· For Inflammatory Conditions and Pain Management: C. sulphureus offers a comprehensive dual-action approach to inflammation and pain. The flavonoids and phenolic acids provide systemic anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators. Simultaneously, the flower extracts demonstrate significant antinociceptive activity through opioid receptor activation, addressing the pain component of inflammatory conditions. This combination of anti-inflammatory and centrally-mediated analgesic effects makes C. sulphureus a valuable plant for managing arthritis, gastric ulcers, and other inflammatory disorders.

· For Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome: The plant provides a multi-target strategy for metabolic health. The butanol and ethyl acetate fractions potently inhibit α-glucosidase, reducing postprandial glucose absorption and addressing a core defect in type 2 diabetes. The same extracts also demonstrate significant vasorelaxant effects, potentially addressing the cardiovascular comorbidities common in diabetes. The identification of specific bioactive compounds (apigenin, quercetin, chlorogenic acid) through LC-MS provides clear molecular targets for further drug development.

· For Liver Health and Detoxification: The hepatoprotective activity of C. sulphureus is well-supported by research. The high concentration of antioxidant polyphenols, particularly quercetin, protects hepatocytes from oxidative damage induced by toxins or inflammation. This supports the traditional use of the plant for liver disorders and positions it as a potential supportive therapy for drug-induced liver injury or hepatitis.

· As a Natural Food Preservative and Functional Food Ingredient: The potent antioxidant activity of C. sulphureus flower extracts, particularly the ethanol-based preparations, makes them promising candidates as natural preservatives. The edible flowers, already used in gourmet cuisine for their flavor and color, can also contribute antioxidant value to food products. This dual functionality aligns with consumer demand for natural, multi-functional food ingredients.

· For Sustainable Agriculture (Bioherbicide): The 2025 discovery of allelochemicals in C. sulphureus, particularly germacrene A and phytol, opens an entirely new application for this plant. As concerns grow over synthetic herbicide resistance and environmental contamination, plant-derived bioherbicides offer an eco-friendly alternative. The identification of specific compounds and their distribution across plant organs allows for targeted extraction and formulation.

Toxicological Profile and Quality Control

Toxicity Considerations: A sub-acute toxicity study on hydro-ethanolic extracts of Cosmos sulphureus roots at doses of 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg revealed disturbances in normal growth of animals as well as liver and kidney alterations. This indicates that while the plant is generally considered safe for traditional use, high doses and long-term use, particularly of root extracts, should be approached with caution.

Standardization Parameters: The 2023 study established comprehensive quantitative data for phenolic content, flavonoid content, and tannin content across different solvents and plant parts. These parameters can serve as quality control benchmarks:

· Methanolic flower extract: TPC 110.94 mg GAE/g, TFC 106.04 mg QE/g, CT 26.12 mg CE/g

· Methanolic leaf extract: TPC 84.65 mg GAE/g, TFC 70.91 mg QE/g, CT 12.68 mg CE/g

· Ethanolic flower extract: TPC 61.54 mg GAE/g, TFC 54.27 mg QE/g, CT 14.33 mg CE/g

· Ethanolic leaf extract: TPC 37.67 mg GAE/g, TFC 25.42 mg QE/g, CT 6.55 mg CE/g

Phytochemical Fingerprint: HPTLC analysis identified specific phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid) and flavonoids (rutin, quercetin). LC-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction identified apigenin, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid. These provide chemical markers for identification and authentication.

Conclusion: Cosmos sulphureus has undergone a remarkable transformation from a traditional medicinal and dye plant to a species at the forefront of pharmacological and agricultural research. The 2024 validation of its antinociceptive activity through opioid receptor pathways, the 2023 quantification of its α-glucosidase inhibition and vasorelaxant effects, the 2023 characterization of its phenolic profile with exceptional antioxidant capacity, and the 2025 identification of its allelochemical potential for sustainable weed management collectively position C. sulphureus as a plant of immense multi-sector value. It stands as a bridge between traditional healing systems and modern applications in pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and eco-friendly agriculture. The identification of specific bioactive compounds (rutin, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, apigenin, germacrene A) and their mechanisms of action provides clear pathways for the development of standardized extracts, novel drug leads, and natural products for food preservation and sustainable agriculture.

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Disclaimer:

Cosmos sulphureus is generally considered safe based on traditional use and the edible nature of its flowers. However, sub-acute toxicity studies on root extracts at higher doses (250-750 mg/kg) have shown disturbances in normal growth and alterations in liver and kidney parameters. Therapeutic use of concentrated extracts, particularly root-based preparations, should be under professional supervision. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use. Individuals with diabetes should use under professional supervision, as the α-glucosidase inhibitory effects may interact with antidiabetic medications. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using this plant for medicinal purposes. This information is for educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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8. Reference Books, Books for In-depth Study:

· Medicinal Plants of Mexico by Robert Bye and Edelmira Linares (relevant chapters on Asteraceae)

· Plants of the World Online database (Kew Science)

· Edible Flowers: A Global History by Constance L. Kirker and Mary Newman

· Phytochemical Methods: A Guide to Modern Techniques of Plant Analysis by J.B. Harborne

· Journal of Pharmacy and Technology (2024 issue for antinociceptive screening)

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9. Further Study: Plants That Might Interest You Due to Similar Medicinal Properties

1. Cosmos bipinnatus (Garden Cosmos)

· Species: Cosmos bipinnatus | Family: Asteraceae

· Similarities: A close relative sharing similar phytochemical profiles and traditional uses. Both species demonstrate hepatoprotective activity, possibly due to the presence of quercetin and other phenolic compounds. Garden Cosmos is more commonly cultivated in temperate gardens, while Sulphur Cosmos is more heat-tolerant.

2. Tagetes erecta (African Marigold/African)

· Species: Tagetes erecta | Family: Asteraceae

· Similarities: Another vibrant yellow-orange flowering Asteraceae species from Mexico, used similarly as a source of natural yellow dye (lutein), as an ornamental, and in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties. Both are rich in flavonoids and carotenoids.

3. Chrysanthemum indicum (Indian Chrysanthemum)

· Species: Chrysanthemum indicum | Family: Asteraceae

· Similarities: A medicinal Asteraceae species used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and hepatoprotective properties. Both plants are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, used for similar indications including inflammatory conditions and liver disorders.

4. Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold)

· Species: Calendula officinalis | Family: Asteraceae

· Similarities: A well-known medicinal plant with similar anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and antimicrobial properties. Calendula flower extracts are widely used in topical preparations for skin conditions, much as Cosmos flower extracts have traditional dermatological applications. Both are edible flowers used in culinary contexts.

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