You’ve probably run across Calendula in your herbal research.
You may even have some in your herbal apothecary.
But you might not know exactly what to do with it.
Well, there are LOTS of things you can do with calendula. But today we’re going to keep it simple and stick to three ways you can use specifically for skin.
Three is doable. Three isn’t overwhelming. Plus once you master these three uses, you’ll feel way more comfortable with other ways to use calendula that you come across.
What is calendula?
The petals of this medicinal Marigold has strong healing and anti-inflammatory properties and was even used in World War 1 to treat wounds in a front line hospital with very good results (source).
In my home, I use it on just about every skin condition, from sunburns to eczema. I’ve even used it on pink eye (and it worked).
This lovely herb is often found in herbal skin lotions and balms and I use it in almost everything I create.
I’d go so far as to say that Calendula is essential for happy skin.
Here are 3 ways to use Calendula herb for happy skin
1. Strong infusion
Making an herbal infusion may sound intimidating, but it’s basically just a very strong tea. Once made, you can use it as a skin rinse, soak bandages in it prior to applying to a wound or use it to soak (add one quart to a foot bath, sitz bath or regular bath).
To make an infusion, put an ounce of dried calendula flowers in a quart-size canning jar. Fill the jar to the fill line with boiling water (don’t burn yourself!). Secure the lid tightly and let it steep until the water has completely cooled. Strain out the herbs and enjoy.
2. Soothing Balm
One very easy way to get the benefits of calendula is with a soothing calendula balm. A balm (or salve) is basically a carrier oil of some kind infused with an herb then solidified with beeswax. A balm lasts much longer than an infusion (like years) and you can carry it with you anywhere.
Here’s a recipe so you can make your own calendula balm.
Don’t want to make it? You can buy it from our shop here.
3. Infused oil
Similar to the soothing balm, but without the wax. An infused oil can be used as a massage oil so that the soothing, anti-inflammatory properties can soak into the skin. It can also be used as a post-bath baby oil (or on humans of all sizes) for easy full-body application.
To make an infused oil, start with the recipe above and use either coconut oil or apricot kernel oil as the carrier oil. After you strain the herbs, skip the wax and transfer the oil to a reusable bottle or jar.
Here’s to happier skin, naturally.
Want more ways to use calendula in natural remedies?
Check out DIY Natural Remedies for simple recipes you can make with just a few ingredients.
