Calendula Oil Scented With Lavender: A Gardener’s Golden Elixir
The memory of my grandmother’s garden is forever intertwined with the scent of calendula and lavender. She had a knack for coaxing the most vibrant blooms from the earth, and her hands, perpetually stained with soil, always carried the calming fragrance of lavender and the slightly honeyed aroma of calendula. Every summer, she’d carefully harvest these flowers, transforming them into healing balms and oils that she generously shared with the community. This Calendula Oil Scented With Lavender recipe is an homage to her wisdom and a way to bring a bit of that sun-drenched garden magic into my own life.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Infusion Time: 2 weeks
- Total Time: 14 days, 15 minutes
- Yields: Approximately 11 ounces
- Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free
Ingredients
- 11 ounces organic lard or sunflower oil (choose one)
- 1 tablespoon vitamin E oil, as a preservative
- 1 cup dried organic calendula flowers
- 10-15 sprigs organic dried lavender flowers
Ingredient Notes:
- Lard provides a richer, more moisturizing texture, while sunflower oil is a lighter, vegan-friendly alternative. Ensure whichever you choose is high-quality and organic.
- Vitamin E oil is crucial for extending the shelf life of your infused oil.
- Always use dried flowers to prevent mold growth in your oil infusion. Fresh flowers contain too much moisture.
- Make sure your calendula is Calendula officinalis and not just any marigold.
Equipment Needed
- Small pot
- Sterilized glass jar with lid
- Cheesecloth
- Sterilized jar for finished oil
Instructions
- Begin by choosing your oil base: either organic lard or organic sunflower oil. The lard needs to be rendered if it is not already.
- In a small pot, gently heat the chosen oil over a very low flame. It’s crucial to maintain a low temperature to avoid damaging the beneficial compounds in the flowers. Do not use a microwave oven for this step. We want to gently warm the oil, not cook it.
- While the oil is gently warming, prepare your sterilized glass jar. Add the 1 cup of dried organic calendula flowers and 10-15 sprigs of dried organic lavender flowers to the jar.
- Once the oil is warmed (it should feel comfortably warm to the touch, not hot), carefully pour it over the flowers in the jar. Ensure the flowers are completely submerged in the oil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of Vitamin E oil to the jar. This acts as a natural preservative, helping to prevent the oil from going rancid.
- Secure the lid tightly on the jar.
- Place the jar on a countertop out of direct sunlight. For the next two weeks, give the jar a gentle shake once a day. This helps to evenly distribute the essential oils and ensure a potent infusion.
- After two weeks, it’s time to strain the oil. Line a sterilized jar with several layers of cheesecloth.
- Carefully pour the infused oil through the cheesecloth, squeezing the cheesecloth to extract as much oil as possible from the flowers. This step can be a little messy, so do it over a bowl to catch any drips.
- Transfer the strained oil to a clean, sterilized jar.
- Label and store the jar in a dark, cool cabinet. The oil should last for approximately 4 months.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Infusion Temperature: The key to a successful oil infusion is maintaining a low temperature. High heat can degrade the beneficial properties of the herbs and even cause the oil to become rancid. A slow and gentle warming process is ideal.
- Sunlight Exposure: While some herbalists advocate for infusing oils in sunlight, I find that it can sometimes degrade the oil quality. Infusing in a dark place yields a more stable and potent result.
- Flower Quality: The quality of your flowers directly impacts the quality of your infused oil. Always use organic, dried flowers from a reputable source. Ensure they are properly dried to prevent mold growth.
- Lard vs. Sunflower Oil: For dry, irritated skin, lard is a fantastic choice due to its rich moisturizing properties. For those with sensitive skin or who prefer a lighter oil, sunflower oil is an excellent alternative.
- Double Infusion: For a more potent oil, strain the infused oil after two weeks and then add fresh flowers to the same oil. Infuse for another two weeks. This will result in a more concentrated oil.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
This Calendula Oil Scented With Lavender is a versatile addition to your skincare routine. Use it as a soothing massage oil, a moisturizing body oil after showering, or as a base for homemade salves, lip balms, and creams.
Store the oil in a dark, cool cabinet away from direct sunlight and heat. Properly stored, it should last for approximately 4 months. If you notice any changes in smell or appearance, it’s best to discard the oil.
Nutritional Information
While this is a topical oil and not intended for consumption, here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown based on a single tablespoon serving (using sunflower oil as the base):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal | 6% |
| Total Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g | 8% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 9g | – |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3.5g | – |
| Vitamin E | 5.6mg | 37% |
Note: Nutritional information is estimated and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Variations & Substitutions
- Olive Oil: You can substitute sunflower oil with olive oil, but be aware that olive oil has a stronger scent that may compete with the lavender and calendula. Use a light, refined olive oil to minimize the scent.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other beneficial herbs like chamomile, rose petals, or plantain.
- Unscented Oil: If you prefer an unscented oil, simply omit the lavender.
- Vegan Lard Substitute: Consider using a vegan lard alternative made from coconut oil and shea butter for a richer texture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Why use dried flowers instead of fresh?
A: Fresh flowers contain a high water content, which can lead to mold growth in your infused oil, shortening its shelf life and potentially causing skin irritation.
Q: Can I use this oil on my face?
A: While calendula and lavender are generally considered safe for facial use, always do a patch test on a small area of skin first to check for any allergic reactions. Avoid contact with eyes.
Q: How can I tell if my oil has gone bad?
A: Rancid oil will have a distinctly unpleasant smell and may appear cloudy. Discard it immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Q: Can I speed up the infusion process by heating the oil for a longer time?
A: No, prolonged heating at higher temperatures can degrade the beneficial compounds in the flowers and the oil itself. A slow, gentle infusion is key.
Q: Is vitamin E oil really necessary?
A: Yes, vitamin E oil acts as a natural antioxidant, helping to prevent the oil from oxidizing and going rancid. It significantly extends the shelf life of your infused oil.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own Calendula Oil Scented With Lavender is a deeply rewarding experience, connecting you to the wisdom of nature and providing a gentle, effective remedy for various skin concerns. I encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with different herbs, and discover the joy of crafting your own botanical beauty products. Share your creations and experiences with others, and let’s spread the healing power of plants! Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below with your feedback or questions.