Utilization of an enormous waste produced by marigold flowers (<scp><i>Calendula officinalis</i></scp>) by its implementation in a polymer‐based matrix for hygiene application

Abstract This study explores the potential of marigold flowers ( Calendula officinalis ), often discarded as waste from religious sites, as a sustainable biofiller for female hygiene products. Sterilized marigold flower powder, sourced from temple waste, was processed and incorporated in extract form (1–5 wt%) into a poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)‐based composite sheet using the solvent casting method. A comprehensive evaluation of the chemical, mechanical, thermal, morphological and topological properties was performed to evaluate the influence of marigold extract (ME) on the PCL matrix. The results revealed that the PCL composite containing 3 wt% ME (MPCL‐2) exhibited a uniform porous structure, enhanced surface smoothness, improved hydrophilicity and a mechanical strength of 19.124 ± 0.3 MPa with 469.36% elongation. Additionally, this composition demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli , along with significant biodegradability in soil burial tests. These findings highlight the potential of marigold‐based biofillers as an eco‐friendly alternative, incorporated into a PCL‐based polymeric matrix (MPCL‐2), offering enhanced sustainability and functional benefits for female hygiene applications. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.