Thanks for our friends at the Herb Society of America for sharing some fantastic information on Calendula.
Calendula is one of the most versatile of the healing herbs. It is traditionally made into a mineral rich herbalists’ infusion of the dried petals and water which is then drunk to help soothe the stomach spasms caused by inflammatory bowel disorders. For canker sores, you can use this same tea cooled and with raw honey added as a mouth rinse to soothe gums. Or use that same calendula infusion (without the honey) as a cooling splash for sunburned skin.
Infused calendula oil can be used on its own, but blended into a creamy salve made with beeswax and coconut oil it becomes a soothing dry skin remedy.
Many of our salves contain Calendula, including our All Purpose Salve (or Green Salve).
Calendula has a spicy, interesting, and delicious flavor when used as a culinary herb. Use the fresh petals sprinkled onto deviled or scrambled eggs, steamed vegetables, and salads. It has a very important history of usage as a winter tonic. Traditional German folk medicine calls for the dried flower heads to be used in soups and stews in the colder months, because calendula has been historically used to boost immunity. Add dried calendula petals, dried stinging nettle, leeks, and butternut squash to a bowl of steaming chicken broth into which you can whisk a beaten egg. These additions turn a simple bowl of soup into a mineral rich and comforting tonic that always helps to rescue from the winter.
You can also make…
Calendula Infusion or Tea
- 1 heaping teaspoon dried petals or 2 teaspoons fresh petals
- 6 ounces boiling water
Place the calendula petals into a large mug or teapot and pour over the boiling water. Cover and steep for ten minutes. Strain before use.
You can use the infusion as a tea or a facial toner. Its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties make calendula wonderful to use for a sore throat, canker sore or urinary tract infection.
As always, we recommend seeking the advice of a healthcare practitioner.