How To Make Calendula Extract & How To Use It

Calendula oil is a botanical extract that can be made at home with ease. The oil is well-known for its soothing properties on the skin and scalp, and has been used traditionally for associated purposes. The extract has a spectacular colour when stored in jars, and is even referred to as “liquid sunshine” because of its striking appearance. In this article, we delve deeper into exactly where calendula oil comes from, how to use it, and how to make your own supply.

WHAT IS CALENDULA?

Calendula is a genus of annual and perennial herbs consisting of around 20 species. The most commonly cultivated form is known as pot marigold or simply marigold, which goes by the binomial name Calendula officinalis. The species originates from parts of Asia, Europe, Macaronesia, and the Mediterranean. The flowers of the species feature many bright yellow petals.

Calendula species have been used throughout human history as holistic herbs, and were used ritualistically in both Roman and Greek culture. They are also utilised for culinary purposes and are often included in dishes such as soups. The flowers are rich in an array of interesting molecules such as saponins, triterpenes, and flavonol glycosides. Several of these compounds contribute to the skin-nourishing effects of calendula oil.

Users can easily grow their own crop of calendula at home. These bushy and bright plants aren’t fussy, and do well in both full sun and partial shade. They can handle chalky, loamy, and sandy soils as long as they are well-draining. Sow in situ in spring or autumn, and deadhead regularly to prolong the flowering period.

HOW TO USE CALENDULA OIL

Calendula can be administered orally or topically. For the former, the flowers can be dried and brewed into a tea or ground up and placed into capsules. Moreover, users can make an oral tincture by extracting the active constituents using an alcohol soak over several weeks.

Capsule Machine

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Calendula can be applied topically by extracting flowers into an oil carrier, which can then be used on its own or added to other products such as creams and salves. To use the oil, simply apply to the affected areas and let soak into the skin.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF CALENDULA OIL?

Calendula oil is perhaps best known for its beneficial effects on the skin. Those experiencing rough, chapped, red, or sensitive skin may find the phytochemical mix in calendula oil to soothe the affected areas and support a more vibrant appearance.

The antioxidants in calendula work overtime to reduce signs of ageing, support better skin texture, and overall keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Many individuals even mix calendula oil into their sunscreen to support the skin from multiple angles.

Additionally, calendula oil is thought to have nourishing properties that make it a good option for those with skin imperfections. Use it on blemishes, blackheads, etc. as necessary. As the oil is easy to make and easy to apply, you never have to go without.

And don’t forget about the hair and scalp! Calendula oil is often applied to hydrate on the scalp, and to support overall healthier-looking hair. Just be aware that calendula oil is a natural hair dye for blondes and light brunettes. Some people purposefully exploit this benefit, but others may not desire any changes.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN CALENDULA EXTRACT/OIL

Making your own supply of topical calendula oil at home is easy. Before we delve into the instructions, you’ll need to get some supplies together.

SUPPLIES

• Glass jar
• Lid
• Spoon
• Carrier oil (such as olive oil)
• Dried calendula flowers

INSTRUCTIONS

Luke Sumpter

With a BSc (Hons) degree in Clinical Health Sciences and a passion for growing plants, Luke Sumpter has worked as a professional journalist and writer at the intersection of cannabis and science for the past 7 years.

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