What To Do With Calendula Flowers

 
Calendula flowers ( Calendula officinalis) also known by its common name pot marigold, are not only beautiful to look at but also have a variety of practical uses. These vibrant flowers are not just for ornamental purposes; they can be harvested and used in different ways to enhance your daily life. In this blog post, I will explore some creative and beneficial ways to make the most of calendula flowers. The aerial parts are used as an oil or salve to heal wounds and as a tea to encourage digestion and reduce chronic ulcers. It is also distilled in water and used as an eye wash to reduce inflammation and soreness.

Calendula Flower Herbal Tea
One of the simplest and most popular ways to use calendula flowers is by making a soothing herbal tea. Calendula tea has been enjoyed for centuries for its calming properties and numerous health benefits. To make calendula tea, simply steep a handful of dried calendula flowers in hot water for about 10 minutes. You can add a touch of honey or lemon for added flavor. Enjoy this delightful tea to relax and unwind after a long day.
Homemade Salves and Balms
Calendula flowers are renowned for their skin-healing properties. You can harness these benefits by creating your own homemade salves and balms. To make a calendula salve, infuse dried calendula flowers in a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, for several weeks. Once the oil is infused, strain out the flowers and mix it with beeswax to create a healing salve. This salve can be applied to minor cuts, scrapes and skin irritations to promote healing and reduce inflammation. This salve assists healing wounds by promoting cell repair and growth.
Natural Dye
If you have a passion for crafts and DIY projects, calendula flowers can be used to create a natural dye. The vibrant yellow and orange petals of calendula can produce a beautiful dye that can be used to color fabrics, yarns, and even Easter eggs. To make the dye, simmer a handful of calendula flowers in water for about an hour. Strain out the flowers and use the resulting liquid to dye your chosen materials. Experiment with different concentrations and materials to achieve your desired color.
Culinary Delights
Calendula flowers are edible and can add a pop of color and flavor to your culinary creations. The petals have a slightly tangy and peppery taste, making them a great addition to salads, soups, and stir-fries. You can also use calendula flowers to infuse oils and vinegars, adding a subtle floral note to your dressings and marinades. Be sure to use only the petals and remove the bitter green base before using them in your dishes.
Skin Care Treatments
With their gentle and soothing properties, calendula flowers are widely used in natural skincare products. You can create your own homemade face masks, toners, and creams using calendula flowers. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of calendula can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote a healthy complexion. Incorporate calendula infused oils or dried petals into your skincare routine for a natural and radiant glow.
Companion Planting
Calendula flowers are not just beneficial for humans; they also have a role to play in the garden. These vibrant flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them excellent companion plants for your vegetable garden. By planting calendula near your vegetables, you can help improve pollination and increase crop yields. Additionally, calendula has natural pest-repellent properties, making it a great companion for deterring unwanted garden pests.
Calendula Dosage
Standard dosing for calendula is as follows:
Infusion (tea): Add 1 cup of boiling water to 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb and allow to infuse for 10-15 minutes in a covered cup (to capture the beneficial essential oils). Drink 1 cup 3x per/day.
Tincture (1:5): 1-4ml, 3x/day.
Topically (salve, ointment, or lotion) (1:5): Apply generously 3x/day.
Fluid Extract (1:1): 0.5 to 1 ml, 3x/day.
As you can see, calendula flowers have a wide range of practical uses beyond their aesthetic appeal. Whether you choose to enjoy them in a cup of herbal tea, create natural skincare products or incorporate them into your culinary adventures, calendula flowers are sure to bring beauty and benefits to your life.
 
This post may contain affiliate/referral links. Read my full Disclosure/Disclaimer Policy.
Like this:Like Loading…

Related