When it comes to cooking, many of us tend to focus on the ingredients we can find at our local grocery store or farmer’s market. However, there are countless plants growing in nature that have been used for centuries to create delicious and nutritious dishes. One such plant is calendula, a bright yellow flower that is not only beautiful but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
In this article, we’ll explore the many ways you can use calendula in your cooking, from soups and salads to baked goods and beverages. Whether you’re looking for a new ingredient to add some excitement to your meals or seeking out natural remedies for common ailments, calendula is an excellent choice. So let’s get started on this culinary journey and discover the vibrant flavors of calendula!
Calendula and Honey Healing Salve
This soothing salve harnesses the gentle power of calendula and honey to calm and comfort dry, irritated skin. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create your own natural remedy at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup calendula infused oil (see note)
– 1/2 cup raw honey
– 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax pellets over low heat.
2. Add the calendula infused oil and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the raw honey until fully dissolved.
5. Pour into a clean glass jar or tin.
6. Let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
Tips:
– Store in an airtight container to preserve shelf life.
– Use within 6 months of making.
– Apply topically as needed, or use after bathing to lock in moisture.
Calendula Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with the warm, sunny flavor of calendula-infused olive oil. This recipe is perfect for using in marinades, salad dressings, or as a finishing touch for pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup dried calendula petals (Marigold)
– Cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the dried calendula petals and olive oil.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it infuse in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the mixture every few days.
3. After the infusion period, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth into another container. Discard the solids.
4. Store the infused olive oil in an airtight container at room temperature.
Cooking Time:
– Infusion time: 2-3 weeks
– Total preparation time: approximately 5 minutes (plus infusion time)
Calendula Tea with Lemon and Ginger
This recipe combines the gentle warmth of calendula with the invigorating zing of lemon and ginger to create a soothing tea perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried calendula petals
– 1 cup boiling water
– Juice of 1/2 lemon
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
Instructions:
1. In a teapot or infuser, combine the dried calendula petals and boiling water. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
2. Strain the tea into a cup to remove the solids.
3. Add the lemon juice and stir well.
4. Slice the fresh ginger thinly and add it to the tea.
5. Enjoy your soothing Calendula Tea with Lemon and Ginger!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Calendula Flower Petal Salad
This vibrant salad celebrates the beauty of calendula flowers, adding a pop of color and delicate flavor to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning and healthy dish perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh calendula flower petals
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the calendula petals gently with cold water, pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, feta cheese (if using), and chopped nuts.
3. Arrange the calendula petals on top of the greens mixture in a decorative pattern.
4. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Calendula and Chamomile Soothing Balm
This gentle balm combines the anti-inflammatory properties of calendula with the calming effects of chamomile to provide a soothing remedy for irritated skin. Perfect for use on minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup beeswax
– 2 tablespoons dried calendula flowers
– 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers
– 10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax over low heat.
2. Add the dried calendula and chamomile flowers to the melted mixture.
3. Stir until the herbs are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Strain the balm through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar.
6. Add the lavender essential oil and stir well.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
This soothing balm is perfect for minor skin irritations, and can be applied topically as needed. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Calendula and Coconut Oil Skin Cream
Nourish your skin with the soothing power of calendula and the moisturizing benefits of coconut oil.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup distilled water
– 2 tablespoons calendula infused oil (see note)
– 2 teaspoons beeswax
– 2 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax over low heat.
2. Remove from heat and let cool until it reaches a consistency similar to honey.
3. Add the distilled water and calendula infused oil. Stir well to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar.
5. Let it cool and thicken at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Notes:
– To make calendula infused oil, steep 1 tablespoon of dried calendula petals in 1/2 cup of carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) for 2-3 weeks.
– This cream is best used within 6 months and stored in the refrigerator to prolong shelf life.
Tips:
– Apply after cleansing and toning your skin, or use as a spot treatment for dry patches.
– A little goes a long way – start with a small amount and adjust to your desired level of moisturization.
Calendula and Oatmeal Bath Soak
Soften and soothe your skin with this nourishing bath soak recipe, featuring the calming properties of calendula and the gentle exfoliating power of oatmeal.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons dried calendula flowers
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon Epsom salt
• 1/4 cup carrier oil (such as coconut or sweet almond oil)
• 2 cups warm water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the dried calendula flowers and rolled oats.
2. Add the baking soda and Epsom salt to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Slowly add in the carrier oil while stirring with a spoon until a thick paste forms.
4. Gradually add the warm water to the mixture, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency for a bath soak.
5. Pour the soak into a bathtub filled with warm water and soak for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: None (bath soak)
Calendula and Lavender Herbal Pillow
Create a calming and soothing herbal pillow with the gentle properties of calendula and lavender. This pillow is perfect for promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried calendula flowers (Marigold)
– 1/2 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon beeswax
– 2 cotton cloths or a clean, soft towel
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the dried calendula and lavender.
2. Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
3. Add the herbal mixture to the melted oil and wax, stirring until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture onto one of the cotton cloths or towel, spreading it evenly.
5. Place the second cloth or towel on top of the mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres.
6. Allow the pillow to cool and harden completely (about 30 minutes).
7. Use your Calendula and Lavender Herbal Pillow as needed for relaxation and stress relief.
Cooking Time: None
Calendula and Rosehip Facial Toner
This refreshing toner combines the soothing properties of calendula with the antioxidant-rich benefits of rosehip to leave your skin feeling smooth, calm, and revitalized.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup witch hazel
– 1/4 cup calendula infused water (see note)
– 1 tablespoon rosehip oil
– 10 drops tea tree essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the witch hazel and calendula infused water.
2. Stir in the rosehip oil until well combined.
3. Add the tea tree essential oil and stir gently.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Tips:
– To make calendula infused water, steep 1 tablespoon of dried calendula flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes, then strain and cool.
– Shake the toner well before each use.
– Use a cotton pad to sweep the toner across your face, avoiding the eye area.
Calendula and Aloe Vera Sunburn Relief Gel
A soothing blend of calendula and aloe vera helps to calm and hydrate sun-kissed skin, providing fast relief from redness, itching, and discomfort.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried calendula flowers
– 1 cup aloe vera gel
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. Combine the dried calendula flowers and aloe vera gel in a small bowl.
2. Let it sit for 2 hours to allow the calendula to infuse into the aloe vera.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, squeezing as much liquid as possible from the solids.
4. Add the coconut oil and vitamin E oil to the liquid mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the gel into a sterilized jar or container.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.
Calendula and Mint Lip Balm
Soften and moisturize your lips with this all-natural lip balm infused with calendula and mint. This soothing recipe is perfect for dry, chapped lips.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon of beeswax
• 1 teaspoon of calendula extract
• 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint essential oil
• 1/4 teaspoon of vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax over low heat.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the calendula extract, peppermint essential oil, and vitamin E oil.
3. Pour the mixture into lip balm tubes or small tin containers.
4. Let it cool and harden completely before use.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tips:
– For a more intense color, add a few drops of yellow or orange food coloring to the mixture.
– Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Calendula and Citrus Herbal Vinegar
This recipe combines the soothing properties of calendula with the uplifting essence of citrus to create a unique herbal vinegar perfect for dressing salads, marinating meats, or using as a natural remedy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup dried calendula flowers
– 1/4 cup sliced orange peel (remove any white pith)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Combine apple cider vinegar, dried calendula flowers, and sliced orange peel in a clean glass jar.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cover the jar with a lid and let it sit at room temperature for 2-4 weeks, shaking the mixture daily.
4. Strain the vinegar through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
5. Add lemon juice and honey to the vinegar. Stir until dissolved.
6. Transfer the herbal vinegar to a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
Cooking Time: 2-4 weeks (steeping time)
Calendula and Turmeric Anti-Inflammatory Paste
This soothing paste combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with the calming effects of calendula, making it a perfect remedy for skin irritations, minor cuts, and scrapes. This natural concoction promotes healthy skin and reduces inflammation.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons calendula oil
– 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon beeswax
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat.
2. Add the turmeric powder and whisk until well combined and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the calendula oil and beeswax until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or tin and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Once set, use as needed by applying a small amount to affected areas with a cotton swab.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Calendula and Shea Butter Hand Cream
This rich and creamy hand cream combines the anti-inflammatory properties of calendula with the nourishing power of shea butter to leave your hands feeling soft, smooth, and pampered.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup shea butter
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons calendula infused oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax
– 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil
– 10 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the shea butter and coconut oil over low heat.
2. Remove from heat and add the calendula infused oil, beeswax, and vitamin E oil. Stir until the beeswax is fully incorporated.
3. Pour the mixture into a glass jar or tin and let it cool and solidify at room temperature.
4. Once set, use as you would any hand cream, applying a small amount to your hands and massaging in thoroughly.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
Calendula and Eucalyptus Chest Rub
This gentle chest rub combines the anti-inflammatory properties of calendula oil with the decongestant powers of eucalyptus essential oil to provide relief from coughs, congestion, and soreness.
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon calendula oil
• 5 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 1 teaspoon beeswax
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax over low heat.
2. Add the coconut oil and calendula oil to the melted beeswax. Stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and add the eucalyptus essential oil. Stir well.
4. Pour the mixture into a small tin or glass container.
5. Allow it to cool and harden completely (about 30 minutes).
6. Once hardened, use as needed to massage onto chest and back.
Cooking Time: None
Calendula and Green Tea Foot Soak
Relax and rejuvenate your feet with this nourishing soak, infused with the soothing properties of calendula and the antioxidant benefits of green tea. Perfect for pampering after a long day or as part of a self-care routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons dried calendula flowers
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf green tea (cooled)
– 1 tablespoon Epsom salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water and calendula flowers. Let it steep for 5-7 minutes to allow the beneficial compounds to infuse.
2. Strain the liquid into another bowl, discarding the solids.
3. Add the cooled green tea, Epsom salt, and coconut oil to the liquid. Stir until the salts are dissolved.
4. Soak your feet in the mixture for 15-20 minutes, relaxing and rejuvenating.
5. Rinse your feet thoroughly with warm water, then pat dry.
Cooking Time: None
Calendula and Witch Hazel Astringent
This gentle astringent recipe combines the soothing properties of calendula with the toning effects of witch hazel, perfect for sensitive skin. This homemade treatment can help to reduce inflammation, tighten pores, and leave your complexion feeling smooth and refreshed.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup distilled water
– 1/4 cup witch hazel
– 2 tablespoons calendula oil
– 10 drops tea tree essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the distilled water and witch hazel until well combined.
2. Add the calendula oil to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
3. If desired, add the tea tree essential oil for its antimicrobial properties.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None
Calendula and Beeswax Healing Candle
Harness the soothing powers of calendula and beeswax to create a natural healing candle that promotes relaxation and calms the mind and body.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup calendula petals (dried)
– 1/2 pound beeswax pellets
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the beeswax pellets over low heat.
2. Once melted, add the coconut oil and stir until combined.
3. Add the calendula petals and stir well to infuse the mixture with their calming properties.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Add the lavender essential oil and stir to combine.
6. Pour the mixture into a candle mold or a glass jar.
7. Allow the mixture to solidify completely before using.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on the size of your candle)
This calming candle is perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere in any room. The calendula promotes relaxation and reduces inflammation, while the beeswax provides a soothing, natural glow. Enjoy!
Summary
Discover the vibrant world of Calendula recipes! This article presents 18 innovative and natural recipes that combine the healing properties of Calendula with other ingredients to create unique remedies for skin, hair, and body care. From soothing balms and creams to herbal vinegars and teas, these recipes offer a variety of ways to harness the power of Calendula. Learn how to make a range of products, from salves and oils to bath soaks and toners, that can help alleviate symptoms of skin issues, inflammation, and stress. Get ready to unlock the potential of this amazing herb!
