Infusing oils is as rewarding as it is simple. Our ancestors used this tradition for centuries to reap the benefits of the plants they used and it is a great base for skin products. There are a few different ways to infuse oils, but I like to use the solar-infused method (the power of the sun). It takes a tad bit longer, but to me it feels more natural.

Most herbs can be infused either dry or fresh. With calendula, I prefer using dry flowers though it is truly a question of preference.

Directions

1. Optional: Massage calendula flowers for better nutrient absorption into the oil.

2. Place calendula flowers in a clean jar. Make sure to leave at least 2 inches of open space above your flowers, which you will cover with oil.

3. Fill jar with oil of choice. For me, I love to use coconut oil. If the coconut oil is hard, heat it up in a double boiler until it liquifies. Once liquid, pour it over the flowers in the jar, making sure to cover herbs in at least 1 inch of oil. Do not allow flowers to poke out over the oil. Should this happen, keep adding more oil. You’ll thank me later.

4. Using a thin utensil such as a chopstick, make sure to stir any air bubbles out of the mix. This will prevent the chance of your product soiling. Cap the jar tightly and shake well.

5. Cap the jar. Shake well. Place in a sunny place, such as a windowsill. Shake from time to time (every 2-3 days).

6. After 3 to 4 weeks (or 2 to 3 weeks in summer), strain the herbs out of the oil into a measuring cup or bowl. I like to use cheesecloth, though you can use a mesh strainer as well. The flowers will have absorbed some of the oil, so squeeze liberally!! 

7. Pour the oil into a clean glass jar or bottle. If you see any sediment on the bottom of the jar or bottle, strain one more time for purer oil. Discard the cheesecloth and strained calendula flowers.

8. Store in cool dark place. Enjoy! Check out my calendula salve recipe for some inspiration on how to use this product.