Crafting a Calendula Tincture: A Step-by-Step Guide
Calendula's Calling
Calendula (Calendula officinalis), also known as "pot marigold," has been treasured for its vibrant blooms and powerful healing properties.
It is widely used for supporting skin health, soothing inflammation, and promoting overall wellness. Making a calendula tincture at home allows us to harness these benefits in a natural, more intentional way.
What You’ll Need:
Dried Calendula Flowers – About 1 cup
(Use organic flowers to avoid pesticides.)Alcohol – 80–100 proof vodka or brandy
(For children, replace alcohol with vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar.)A Clean Glass Jar – With a tight-fitting lid
Cheesecloth or Strainer – For filtering
A Dark Glass Dropper Bottle – For storage
Step 1: Preparing Your Calendula Flowers
Add 1 cup of dried calendula flowers to a clean glass jar.
Fill the jar halfway to allow space for the solvent to fully saturate the flowers.
Mindful Tip: As you prepare the flowers, take a moment to appreciate their bright hues and the energy they bring.
Reflect on the connection between nature and healing, setting an intention for this process—whether it’s for self-care, nurturing others, or simply creating something meaningful.
Step 2: Adding the Solvent
Pour alcohol (or your chosen solvent) over the calendula flowers until they are fully submerged by about 1–2 inches.
Stir gently to release any trapped air and seal the jar tightly.
Scientific Note: Alcohol acts as a natural preservative and helps extract the calendula’s active compounds, including flavonoids and carotenoids. These compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Mindful Tip: As you seal the jar, consider your goals for the tincture.
Whisper a small intention, such as “May this tincture bring balance and healing.”
Step 3: Letting It Infuse
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks,
allowing the alcohol (or glycerin) to extract the medicinal compounds.
Shake the jar gently every few days to ensure even infusion.
Scientific Insight: The extraction process works by drawing out calendula’s beneficial compounds, including triterpenoids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects.
Mindful Tip: During this waiting period, reflect on the importance of patience.
Like the calendula growing under the sun, good things take time to unfold.
Step 4: Straining the Tincture
After 4–6 weeks, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into a clean container.
Squeeze the flowers to extract all the remaining liquid.
Mindful Tip: As you strain the tincture, consider the parallels with releasing things that no longer serve you.
What can you let go of to make space for growth and healing in your life?
Step 5: Storing and Using Your Tincture
Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle with a dropper.
Store it in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency!!
Properly stored, the tincture can last for up to 2 years.
Dosages:
Adults: Take 30–40 drops (1–2 ml) in water or tea up to 3 times daily.
Children:
For ages 2–12, use 10–15 drops of glycerin-based tincture diluted in water or juice, up to twice daily.
For infants under 2 years, use calendula tincture topically only (diluted in water).
Benefits of Calendula Tincture:
Skin Health: Aids in wound healing, soothing rashes, and reducing irritation.
Anti-inflammatory: Supports calming inflamed tissues, both externally and internally.
Immune Support: Helps fight minor infections and boosts the body’s natural defenses.
Digestive Aid: Aids in reducing stomach discomfort and promoting gentle detoxification.
Making It Safe for Children:
Use glycerin or apple cider vinegar instead of alcohol as the base.
Always dilute the tincture before administering it internally.
Perform a patch test before using it topically to check for sensitivities.
Thoughts on Calendula
The process of making a calendula tincture is as much about creating a natural remedy as it is about connecting with the rhythms of nature.
Each step—from preparing the flowers to setting intentions and patiently waiting for the tincture to infuse—mirrors the growth and transformation we experience in life.
Stay intentional, stay patient, and allow the vibrant energy of calendula to support your journey toward balance and well-being.
