Calendula cream is a gentle, natural remedy made from the flowers of Calendula officinalis (pot marigold). Known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and healing properties, calendula cream is perfect for treating minor wounds, burns, rashes, and dry skin. The best part? You can make it at home with a few simple ingredients. Here’s how to create your own calendula cream.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Dried Calendula Flowers: 1 cup
- Carrier Oil (Olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil): 1 cup
- Beeswax: 2 tablespoons (to thicken the cream)
- Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: 1 tablespoon (optional for extra moisturizing)
- Essential Oils (Optional): A few drops of lavender or tea tree oil for added soothing or antibacterial properties
- Vitamin E Oil (Optional): 1 teaspoon (acts as a natural preservative and skin nourisher)
Tools You’ll Need:
- A double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water
- A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- A glass jar or container with a lid for storing the cream
- A small pot or glass bowl for mixing
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Calendula Cream:
1. Infuse the Oil with Calendula Flowers
- What to do: Combine 1 cup of dried calendula flowers with 1 cup of your chosen carrier oil (olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil) in a double boiler or a heatproof bowl. Heat the mixture on low for about 1-2 hours to allow the calendula to infuse into the oil. Stir occasionally to prevent the flowers from sticking or burning.
- Why it works: Infusing the oil slowly extracts the healing compounds from the calendula flowers, creating a potent, skin-healing base for your cream.
2. Strain the Infused Oil
- What to do: Once the oil has been infused with the calendula, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. Strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the flowers, leaving behind a pure, golden calendula-infused oil.
- Why it works: Straining ensures that your cream is smooth and free of any flower particles.
3. Melt the Beeswax and Add Butters
- What to do: In the same double boiler, melt 2 tablespoons of beeswax and, if desired, 1 tablespoon of shea butter or cocoa butter. These ingredients help thicken the cream and add moisturizing benefits. Stir until fully melted and combined.
- Why it works: Beeswax not only thickens the cream but also forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture.
4. Mix the Infused Oil and Beeswax
- What to do: Slowly pour the calendula-infused oil into the melted beeswax mixture, stirring continuously until everything is fully combined. Keep stirring until the mixture starts to cool and thicken slightly.
- Why it works: Combining the oil and beeswax creates the base for your calendula cream, giving it a smooth and creamy consistency.
5. Add Essential Oils and Vitamin E
- What to do: Once the cream mixture has cooled a bit but is still soft, add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or tea tree oil (optional) for added fragrance and skin benefits. You can also mix in 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil as a natural preservative.
- Why it works: Essential oils enhance the cream’s healing properties, while vitamin E oil helps preserve it and adds skin-nourishing benefits.
6. Pour Into Jars
- What to do: While the cream is still liquid, carefully pour it into a clean glass jar or container with a lid. Allow it to cool completely before sealing the jar.
- Why it works: Letting the cream set ensures that it reaches the right consistency before use. Once cooled, your homemade calendula cream is ready!
How to Use Calendula Cream:
- For minor wounds and burns: Gently apply a small amount of calendula cream to the affected area 2-3 times a day to promote healing.
- For dry, irritated skin: Use the cream as a daily moisturizer to soothe and hydrate dry or sensitive skin.
- For rashes and skin irritations: Calendula cream can provide relief for conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or diaper rash.
Storage Tips:
Store your calendula cream in a cool, dry place. If stored properly, it can last for up to 6 months. The addition of vitamin E oil helps extend its shelf life, but you can refrigerate it for longer use if desired.
Benefits of Using Homemade Calendula Cream:
- Natural and chemical-free: Unlike store-bought creams, your homemade calendula cream is free from harsh chemicals and preservatives.
- Cost-effective: Making your own cream at home is often more affordable than buying commercial products.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your skin’s needs by adding essential oils, butters, or extra moisturizing agents.
Final Thoughts:
Making your own calendula cream is a rewarding way to harness the healing power of this versatile herb. Whether you’re using it to treat cuts, burns, or dry skin, this DIY cream offers a natural, soothing solution for a variety of skin conditions. Plus, it’s simple to make and can be customized to suit your preferences.
Give it a try and enjoy the benefits of calendula’s time-tested healing properties!
