How to Make Calendula Infused Oil: A Simple DIY Guide
Calendula, often referred to as the "pot marigold," is a bright, cheerful flower known for its soothing properties. It's been used for centuries in skincare, herbal remedies, and even for culinary purposes. One of the best ways to harness the healing benefits of calendula is by making an infused oil. Calendula oil can be used to treat minor skin irritations, burns, bruises, and rashes, and is also a fantastic base for homemade lotions, salves, and balms. Making your own calendula-infused oil is simple, rewarding, and can be done with just a few ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide to making your very own calendula infusion oil.
What You'll Need:
- Dried Calendula Petals: You can either grow your own calendula flowers or buy them from a health food store or online. Dried flowers work best for infusing oil, as they are more concentrated than fresh ones.
- Carrier Oil: The type of oil you choose depends on your preferences and intended use. Common carrier oils include olive oil, coconut oil, sweet almond oil, or grapeseed oil.
- A Glass Jar: Choose a clean, airtight jar, preferably dark-colored (to protect the oil from light), to store the infusion.
- Cheesecloth or a Fine Strainer: This is needed to strain the oil from the plant matter once it's infused.
- A Warm, Dark Place: For the infusion process, the oil needs to be kept warm and away from sunlight.
Steps to Make Calendula Infused Oil
Step 1: Prepare the Calendula Petals
Begin by gathering your dried calendula petals. You can use the flowers whole, but it's recommended to break them up a bit to expose more of the plant’s surface area to the oil. The more surface area, the more essential oils and beneficial compounds will be extracted.
Step 2: Fill the Jar
Place your dried calendula petals in the clean glass jar. Fill the jar about two-thirds full with the petals. It's important not to pack them too tightly, as the oil needs to circulate around the flowers to extract their goodness.
Step 3: Add the Carrier Oil
Next, pour your carrier oil into the jar, completely covering the calendula petals. Leave about an inch of space at the top of the jar. Stir gently to ensure the petals are fully submerged. If needed, you can add a bit more oil to cover the flowers entirely.
Step 4: Seal and Store
Seal the jar tightly and place it in a warm, dark place like a cupboard or a pantry. The oil should be left to infuse for at least 2-3 weeks. Shake the jar gently once a day to help with the infusion process. The longer you let the oil sit, the stronger the infusion will be.
Step 5: Strain the Oil
After 2-3 weeks, your calendula oil should have a rich golden hue. To strain the oil, place a cheesecloth or fine strainer over a clean bowl or jar, and pour the oil through. Gently press the petals to extract all the infused oil. Discard the spent calendula petals or compost them.
Step 6: Store Your Infused Oil
Transfer your finished calendula-infused oil to a clean glass container, preferably a dark-colored bottle to protect it from light. Store the oil in a cool, dark place. Your calendula-infused oil should last for several months when stored properly.
Uses for Calendula Infused Oil
Calendula-infused oil has numerous uses, making it a valuable addition to your natural beauty routine. Here are some ideas on how to use it:
- Soothing Skin Care: Apply the oil directly to irritated, inflamed, or sunburned skin to help soothe and heal.
- Massage Oil: Use as a gentle massage oil to help relax sore muscles and promote skin health.
- Moisturizer: Calendula oil can be used as a natural moisturizer for dry or sensitive skin.
- Hand and Foot Care: It’s wonderful for treating cracked, dry hands and feet.
- Hair Care: Use as a hair treatment for dry, flaky scalps or to nourish hair ends.