Are you aware of the remarkable calendula benefits that can support and transform your skin and hair?
As a certified aromatherapist, I often get asked about the essential oils, carrier oils and herbal infusions that are best for various skin conditions. While there are many options, one of my absolute favorites is calendula-infused herbal oil.
If I did not have access to essential oils where I lived, this is the one oil that I would make sure I had in my collection instead. Let’s dive into the world of calendula and explore its amazing benefits.
What is Calendula?
Calendula, also known as garden marigold or English marigold, has the botanical name Calendula officinalis. This vibrant plant is easily grown in home gardens, boasting cute, bright yellow or orange flowers. These flowers can be harvested to create an infused oil or used to make a natural coloring for food. Calendula-infused oil contains flavonoids and carotenoids, which contribute to its effectiveness.
What is Calendula Infused Oil?
Calendula-infused oil is made by infusing the flowers of the calendula plant into a carrier oil. This process extracts the beneficial properties of calendula into the oil, making it perfect for various skin applications. It’s important to note that while the calendula plant provides many benefits, the carrier oil used for infusion also plays a crucial role. Common carrier oils for calendula infusion include olive oil and sunflower oil, both known for their skin-nourishing properties. You may also find it infused into fractionated coconut oil, as this carrier oil has a long shelf life.
Calendula Benefits for Skin
1. Supportive for delicate skin:
One of the standout features of calendula-infused oil is its skin-healing properties. Known throughout history as a skin soother, calendula has been a staple in formulations for lotions, body butters, salves, and ointments. It’s especially good for delicate skin, making it an excellent choice for young children. Always remember to do a patch test before using any new product on your skin.
2. Calendula for burns and wounds:
Calendula benefits include being antiseptic, soothing, healing, and anti-inflammatory. It’s particularly effective for sensitive skin and is beneficial for burns, wounds, inflamed skin, and various skin conditions. Make calendula-infused oil a priority to have on-hand and add it to hand and body lotions, as well as body butters so that you are already prepared for soothing relief when you need it.
3. Calendula for chapped skin:
Calendula-infused herbal oil is a fantastic remedy for chapped skin. Its natural anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties make it perfect for soothing and healing dry, cracked skin. The infusion of calendula flowers into a nourishing carrier oil, such as olive or sunflower oil, provides deep hydration, restoring the skin’s moisture balance. Calendula benefits also include its ability to accelerate skin cell regeneration, which helps repair damaged skin and reduce discomfort. Regular use of calendula oil can leave your skin feeling soft, supple, and protected against further dryness and cracking.
4. Lip Balm for chapped lips:
Don’t forget about dry lips. Calendula oil can be used in homemade lip balm recipes to keep lips soft and hydrated. It helps heal chapped lips and protects them from harsh environmental conditions.
5. Dealing with Eczema:
For those dealing with eczema, rashes, or dermatitis, calendula may be very helpful. Its wound-healing properties are also notable, and it may aid in scar healing over time.
6. Calendula and Collagen Production:
One of the remarkable calendula benefits is its potential to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and strength, and boosting its production can help keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
7. Nail Care:
Applying calendula oil to cuticles and nails may strengthen them and may prevent fungal infections. Its moisturizing properties keep the nails and surrounding skin healthy. Calendula-infused herbal oil is known to have antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties making it a great choice for formulations for not only our hands but also our feet,
8. Using calendula for diaper rash:
Add calendula to your formulation for diaper rash. Its gentle yet powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help soothe and heal irritated skin quickly. Calendula may benefit delicate skin by reducing redness, swelling, and discomfort caused by diaper rash. As always, be sure to do a patch test before using any new product.
9. Apply before using SPF:
It’s an excellent choice for applying to the skin before using SPF in the summertime, offering an extra layer of protection and care. However, you must also use a reliable SPF product as calendula will not be strong enough to protect you on its own.
10. Calendula for Hair Growth:
Calendula isn’t just great for your skin; it may also help stimulate hair growth. Incorporating calendula-infused oil into your hair care routine could lead to healthier, stronger hair.
Powerful Components of Calendula
Calendula contains flavonoids and carotenoids, both of which are powerful compounds that offer several benefits:
- Flavonoids: These provide anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-allergic effects. They also help protect your skin from free radical damage.
- Carotenoids: These are precursors for vitamin A, antioxidants and may provide support the immune system.
Essential Oils vs. Herbal Infused Oils
It’s important to distinguish between essential oils and herbal-infused oils. Essential oils are the concentrated essences of plants, extracted through steam distillation. They are incredibly potent and should never be used directly on the skin without being diluted in a carrier oil like olive, coconut, or sunflower oil. Undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritations, contact dermatitis, and increase the risk of allergic reactions.
In contrast, herbal-infused oils, such as calendula, St. John’s wort, and arnica, involve infusing plant parts into a carrier oil. This method extracts the plant’s benefits into the oil, making it safe for topical application.
Proper Storage of Calendula Oil
To maximize the shelf life of your calendula-infused oil, which is typically one to two years, store it in a dark-colored container in a cool, dry and dark place. This helps preserve its beneficial properties and ensures it remains effective for as long as possible.
Cautions and Considerations
While calendula-infused oil is generally safe, there are some precautions to keep in mind:
- Always do a patch test when using a new product.
- Avoid using calendula if you are pregnant or nursing without consulting a professional first.
- Do not use calendula on deep open wounds.
- If you are allergic to daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed, you should avoid using calendula.
- Consult a professional if you are currently taking medication to ensure it’s safe to use calendula.
Calendula-infused herbal oil is a versatile and powerful addition to any skincare routine. Its numerous benefits, including its skin-healing properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and potential to stimulate collagen and hair growth, make it a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their skin and hair health naturally. Remember, while calendula offers many advantages, it’s always best to consult a professional if you have any concerns or conditions that might require special attention. Embrace the calendula benefits and enjoy the natural goodness it brings to your skincare and wellness regimen.
