Physical Uses: Traditionally used to soothe burns and promote healing, especially of the skin. During the Civil War, battlefield doctors used an infusion of the flowers to treat open wounds.

A cooled tea applied to a sunburn will cool the burn and it is very effective in healing 'road rash'. (Once the skin is healed, apply Vitamin E to minimize scarring.) Calendula Tea helps to reduce the inflammation of acne.

Calendula ointments have been used to treat bedsores, diaper rash, chapped skin and lips. Also an aid to nursing mothers when used to treat cracked nipples.

We consider it to be effective in the treatment of the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. Calendula petals placed in a heat-sealable tea bag make a convenient poultice to apply to skin lesions as well as to make pre-measured doses for hand and foot baths.

Calendula has been used to reduce fever, ease pain from ulcers, and treat problems such as stomach ulcers, cramps, gastritis, liver problems, colitis and diarrhea. Used internally for difficult menstruation.

Calendula aids digestion and is used as a healing mouthwash and gargle.

PREPARATION:

TEA:

1. Boil 1 cup of water. Allow to stand 30 seconds.
2. Add 1 heaping teaspoonful of dried petals. Stir briefly and cover.
3. Allow to steep for 15 minutes.
4. Strain out herbs and discard.
5. Dosage: Internal - 1 cup. External: as needed.
6. NOTE: If there is any remaining, cover and keep refrigerated. Discard after 24 hours.

OIL:

WARM EXTRACTION:

1. Warm 1 pint of olive oil in a double-boiler.
2. Add 4 ounces of flower petals to the warmed oil. Stir and cover.
3. Continue to warm (not boil) for 1/2 hour.
4. Remove from heat and place contents of pan in container with lid.
5. Shake the container to continue to mix 3-4 times in 24 hours.
6. Strain out flowers and discard.
7. Add the contents of 1 capsule of Vitamin E. Stir and seal tightly.
8. Store in a cool dark place.

COOL EXTRACTION:

1. Place 40 gr. of Calendula petals in a wide-mouthed jar.
2. Pour 1.2 liters of olive oil over petals.
3. Place cover on jar and tighten.
4. Shake the jar thoroughly.
5. Place in a cool dark place.
6. Shake the jar vigorously 3x every day for 2 weeks.
7. Strain out the petals and discard.
8. For stronger oil, repeat steps 1-7, using the same oil.
9. Store in a cool, dark place.