Calendula (Pot marigold) - How to make a cream
Calendula cream or ointment is good for cuts, wounds, varicose veins and various inflammatory conditions. It can also be used for ringworm, athlete’s foot, nappy rash and sunburn. It soothes nipples that are sore from breast-feeding. You can also make a compress or poultice of the flowers for burns, scalds or stings.
Ingredients
100ml home-made infused calendula oil (recipe below)
15 g beeswax, either grated or as pellets
100ml herbal tea e.g. chamomile or calendula tea or tincture
Method
1. Put the infused oil and beeswax into a small Pyrex bowl and place in a saucepan of cold water.
2. Likewise, put the herbal tea in a small Pyrex bowl and place in a saucepan of cold water.
3. Bring the water in both saucepans to the boil and then remove from the heat.
4. Allow the beeswax to melt.
5. Then very carefully, take the bowl with the herbal tea and add a few drops to the oil/beeswax mixture using a hand-held electric mixer at the lowest speed.
6. Continue whisking and adding the drops very slowly. When all the water is blended fill the cream in the storage jars and label the jars.
NOTE
Avoid using Calendula cream or ointment on dirty wounds, as rapid healing can trap dirt or pus.
How to make cold infused Calendula oil - Method
1. Pack the jar with calendula flowers or petals and cover completely with oil. I use cold pressed extra virgin olive oil.
2. Put the lid on and leave on a sunny windowsill or in a greenhouse for 2 weeks.
3. Pour the mixture into a muslin or jelly bag lining a jug.
4. Then squeeze the oil through the bag or muslin into the jug.
5. Bottle up and label or use immediately for making Calendula cream.
