Calendula, also known as marigold, is renowned for its powerful healing qualities. It promotes blood circulation, aids in the healing of infected wounds and ulcers, reduces skin inflammation, fades scars, and is particularly effective in treating burns caused by sun exposure.
Thanks to its provitamin A content, calendula oil is also helpful in managing psoriasis. Its wide range of uses makes it a valuable remedy to keep at home, and the best part is, you can easily make it yourself.
Calendula Oil Uses:
Ideal for treating wounds, lichen, eczema, impetigo (a bacterial skin infection), hemorrhoids, burns, infected ulcers, and fungal skin conditions.
Homemade Calendula Oil Recipe:
1. Pick marigold flowers just before noon when the sun is at its peak. Gather only the open blossoms and a few healthy leaves.
2. Chop them and place them in a wide-mouthed glass jar.
3. Pour in a cold-pressed oil such as olive, sunflower, sesame, or pumpkin oil, ensuring the flowers are covered by at least 3 cm.
4. Use a 1:1 ratio—one cup of flowers to one cup of oil.
5. Seal the jar and leave it in a sunny, warm spot for 4–5 weeks. Shake the jar regularly.
6. After the infusion period, strain the oil through sterile gauze and transfer it to a dark glass bottle. Store in a cool, dark place—ideally the refrigerator.
Important:
Calendula oil can oxidize if not stored correctly. Always check that it hasn’t changed color or faded—signs it has lost potency. Refrigeration helps preserve its benefits.
Calendula Oil for Varicose Veins:
- Slowly melt 500 g of lard.
- Add 2 tablespoons of fresh marigold flowers and a handful of dried green horse chestnut bark.
- Let it bubble briefly, then remove from the heat and stir for 5 minutes.
- Cover and leave to set in a cool place for 24 hours.
- Reheat gently the next day, stirring until melted, then strain through gauze and store in a dry, sterile jar.
- Keep in a dark, cool spot—preferably the fridge. Apply in the evening, gently smoothing the balm upward along the veins without pressure.
Calendula Ointment Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Dried calendula flowers
- Carrier oil (olive, coconut, or almond)
- Beeswax (30 g per 250 g of infused oil)
- Essential oils (10–20 drops per 250 g)
Instructions:
1. Prepare an infusion by covering dried flowers in oil (1:1 ratio) and leaving the jar in a cool, dark place for several weeks.
2. Strain through cheesecloth, then gently heat the oil in a water bath.
3. Add beeswax, stirring until fully melted.
4. Add essential oils if desired.
5. Pour the mixture into containers and let it cool completely.
6. Suitable for treating cuts, wounds, and scars.
Calendula & Shea Butter Night Cream:
Ingredients:
- 3 teaspoons calendula oil
- 1 tablespoon shea butter
- 2 teaspoons aloe vera gel
Usage:
Mix the ingredients well.
Apply to clean skin at night.
Rinse off with cold water in the morning and pat dry with a soft towel.
Calendula Hair Mask:
Ingredients:
- 4 teaspoons calendula oil
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Directions:
Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Massage into the scalp and along the hair strands.
Leave for 30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water and a nourishing shampoo.
Iced Calendula Tea:
Ingredients:
- 4 tsp fresh calendula flowers or 2 tsp dried
- 4 cups water
- Steviol (optional)
Preparation:
Fill a jug with flowers and pour boiling water over them.
Allow to steep until it cools to room temperature or overnight.
Strain, sweeten if desired, and serve over ice with a mint garnish.
A refreshing and healthy summer beverage!
Final Thoughts:
Calendula is a gentle, safe herb that’s beneficial for both adults and children. It’s definitely worth planting in your garden or even growing in pots on your balcony.
However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use.
Also, individuals allergic to sunflowers or plants in the Asteraceae family should proceed with caution. For everyone else, calendula offers countless natural benefits.
