Back in the summer I grew my own Calendula (Calendula officinalis) aka Pot Marigold and turned these vibrant flowers into a gorgeous flower oil. Calendula has anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and antifungal properties, which makes it perfect for the skin. Calendula can help to sooth minor burns, cuts or skin irritations.
Now spring is in the air, and you can start planting calendula seeds inside I thought it would be the perfect time to share a simple recipe, so you too, can infuse calendula flowers into a carrier oil and make your own flower oil.
Before you can make this simple recipe, you will first need to dry your flower heads. Once the calendula flowers are fully out and ready to pick, pop them in a sunny, warm spot to dry. The flower heads will wilt and once fully dried, you are ready to make your flower oil.
Calendula Flower Oil – Using the sun method.
1. Half fill your sterilised jar with your dried calendula flower heads.
2. Cover with a carrier oil of your choice. You can use a range of carrier oils such as sunflower, sweet almond, jojoba etc. My go to carrier oil is apricot kernel as its great for dry skin.
3. Make sure all the petals are fully submerged in the oil. Any petals exposed to the air will become mouldy and ruin your beautiful oil. Gently shake the jar from side to side to remove air bubbles.
4. Leave the jar in a sunny spot for up to 6 weeks, or until the oil is no longer cloudy.
5. Once ready, drain through a muslin cloth and add to sterilised bottles.
6. Label and date your infusion. It can be kept in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Your flower oil is now ready to use! You can turn your gorgeous oil into cream, ointments, and balms. If you are not sure how to make a balm, check out my simple recipe.
I hope you enjoy this gorgeous little recipe.
Love
Kirsty x
*Disclaimer* The information in this blog post is for educational purposes. It is not a replacement for professional medical advice. As a qualified aromatherapist, please contact me if you have any questions relating to essential oils.
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