Calendula, Latin name calendula officinalis, is a powerful member of the daisy family that works wonders on the skin.
Named in ancient Roman times, calendula is one of the oldest known skin healers in history. It was such a potent healer, in fact, that it was often used to treat the scorpion bites of ancient Romans.
Nowadays, calendula is used to treat skin irritations (including eczema and dermatitis), heal wounds, soothe burns, remedy bruising and fight varicose veins. I have also personally used it to lighten the dark circles under my eyes, the ones that I have been plagued with since I was a teenager.
So why does calendula work so well for skin? It contains very high levels of carotenoids and sterols, oil soluble compounds that heal and plump skin. The healing and plumping action of calendula is what allows it to repair skin cells and renew skin’s youthful glow.
Keep in mind, though, that your skin is the canvas upon which your body’s treatment is painted. In other words, if you abuse your body, it will show on your skin. So before you reach for that calendula cream, make sure you are treating your body right so it has the tools it needs to heal. Only then will you be able to effectively heal your skin with calendula.
So, how is calendula used? While typically the petals are used, in reality the entire calendula plant can be used. Calendula is also fairly versatile in terms of what forms it can take: lotions, creams, tinctures, oils, serums and sprays are all possibilities for skin care products.
The easiest way for many people to get calendula skin care products is to head to a local health store and start shopping. Calendula’s mainstream popularity in recent years has made finding commercially made products much easier now than it was in the past.
If you are more of a do-it-yourself type, head to Mountain Rose Herbs, and pick up some dried calendula. Dried calendula can be easily turned into infused oil for your delicate skin.
The easiest way to make calendula infused oil:
1. Fill a clean, dry jar with dried calendula.
2. Fill the remaining space in the jar with carrier oil (apricot, almond, olive, grapeseed, etc.).
3. Seal the jar, and shake it every day for a few weeks. Store in a cool, dry location.
4. After 2-4 weeks, strain your calendula oil, and start healing your skin!
Make sure to store your newly created calendula oil in a cool, dry, dark location. The next time you have some minor skin irritation, or just want a healthy moisturizer for your skin, you will be thrilled that you have calendula oil on hand.
Have fun, and happy skin healing!
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Sources:
Ritchason, N.D. (1995). The Little Herb Encyclopedia: The Handbook of Nature’s Remedies for a Healthier Life. Pleasant Grove, UT: Woodland Health Books.
Schar, D. (2011). Planet Botanic. Calendula Facts. http://www.planetbotanic.ca/fact_sheets/Calendula.htm
