Herbal Remedies: Make Calendula Infused Oil at Home | For Irritated Skin
Calendula infused oil can be a great remedy to have on hand in your medicine cabinet. I personally use it for eczema flare-ups, my baby's diaper rash, and I mix it with my mango butter.
Benefits
Assists in healing wounds and preventing infections in wounds
Anti-inflammatory properties: Relieves sunburns and cradle cap
Great for diaper rashes and provides a gentle relief
Soothes eczema and psoriasis
Lightens and brightens skin
Anti-aging properties: Encourages collagen production resulting in tightening skin
A natural SPF
How to Use
Add directly to inflamed or irritated area of the skin.
Add to your natural butters, such as shea butter.
Add it to a healing salve.
Types of Carrier Oils
Coconut Oil
A thick oil
Great for soaps and shampoos
Strengthens skin
Avoid if you are prone to acne
Extra Virgin Olive Oil:
Lightweight
Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants
Great for sensitive skin
Almond Oil:
Dissolves excess oil
Lightweight
Grapeseed Oil:
One of the lightest oils
High in fat and should be used moderately.
Nourishing and prevents anti aging effects
Jojoba Oil:
Lighter than coconut oil and olive oil
Absorbs into skin fast
Great for all skin types
Mimics the human's natural oils
Tools
Glass jar
Dried calendula flowers
Carrier oil
Parchment paper (optional)
Method 1
The Most Traditional Way:
In a dry, clean, glass jar, fill the dried flower about halfway or 3/4 of the way.
Pour the carrier oil over the flowers leaving at least one inch of space at the top.
Place parchment paper covering the top and seal tightly.
Shake vigorously.
Place it in a warm spot that has direct sunlight for 4-8 weeks.
Gently shake the jar daily for one week.
Strain into a dry, clean jar squeezing out as much as possible.
Store for a cool dark place.
Method 2
Heat Infusion:
Follow the steps 1-4 above.
Boil a pot of water, not too much to cover the jar.
Place the jar into the boiling water for 10 minutes.
Turn heat to low and keep the jar in the water to simmer.
Let it infuse for 4-8 hours.
Add more water overtime and shake the jar occasionally.
Follow step 7 and 8 above.
Tips
Small Patch Test: If you are unsure, you are allergic, place a small amount on your hand and rub it in.
Infusion oil is best used within a year.
For a stronger infusion, add 3/4 herb filling up the jar.
For a thinner infusion, add about 1/4 herb filling up the jar.
This infusion is for topical use only.
Looking for more herbal inspiration? Check out my guide to herbal capsules for wellness!
Now it’s your turn to make your calendula-infused oil! Which method will you try first? Let me know in the comments!🌸