Calendula Infused Oil

Calendula Oil is a very emollient and healing oil that is soothing and good for inflammation and dry or sensitive skin.  I use this for making salves, lotions and lip balms.  You can choose your favorite oil such as Almond, Apricot Kernel, Argan, Grapeseed, Macadamia Nut, Hemp seed or Olive Oil. I like to use Grapeseed Oil  since it makes a great oil for body care products, especially for face creams and facial oils.

You can purchase ready-made Calendula Oil from Mountain Rose Herbs for around $14 for a 4 ounce jar, but I think you will have a good time making your own homespun batch.  You can purchase both whole and powdered Calendula flowers (Calendula officinalis) from Mountain Rose Herbs.  I choose to purchase the whole dried flowers for right around $2.00 per ounce and grind them at home in a spice grinder. I trust the quality of the USA grown Calendula flowers that Mountain Rose Herbs offers.

Lets begin..........

Measure out 1/2 ounce of dried Calendula Flowers.

Grind the flowers into a very fine powder. I use a spice grinder.

Place the powder in a sterilized jar. Make sure the jar is totally dry. Even a small amount of moisture can make your oil go rancid. 

Cover the powder with your oil of choice. I used grapeseed oil and I filled the jar with oil to within 1/4-inch from the top. I used a clean wooden stick to stir the powder into the oil. 

 

Label a brown paper lunch sack with the date you made the oil, the ingredients and their amounts. Also write down when the oil will be ready (usually two weeks later). Place the jar of oil inside the bag and close the top. 

Since I made this batch in October, I am placing it over a heater vent for the next two weeks (gently shake it up daily).  If it were Summer, I would place it in a window that receives direct sunlight.  DO NOT place it near a heat source that will catch the bag on fire!!! If it is really cool in your home, just allow the oil to infuse for an extra week or so.


After two weeks (or three, or four....) you simply strain the oil from the herb and press the remaining pulp. Bottle your oil in an amber colored glass jar, cap it tightly, place a label on it and keep it in a cool dark place. Use it up within 3 months if possible.  Stay tuned to Fresh-Picked Beauty for recipes on how to use your Calendula Infused Oil.