How To Make Calendula Infused Oil (Folk Method & Slow Cooker Method)
Calendula infused oil is one of the most versatile and beginner friendly herbal preparations you can make at home. Known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties, this beautiful golden oil is a staple in natural skin care, herbal remedies, and homemade salves. I have fallen in love with it as a go to for my homemade diaper balm and for regular use whenever any of my kids get a cut or bee sting.
If you have ever wanted to learn how to make calendula infused oil, this guide will walk you through both the traditional folk method and a quicker slow cooker method so you can choose the best way for your lifestyle.
This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure policy.
What is Calendula (Calendula Officinalis)
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is a bright orange annual herb loved for its powerful healing properties. The calendula flowers and calendula petals contain beneficial compounds that make it ideal for topical use, especially for dry skin, sensitive skin, and irritated areas.
This wonderful herb has been used for generations in herbal medicine cabinets to create soothing calendula oil, calendula salve, lip balm, and other skincare products.
Calendula Infused Oil Benefits
Calendula infused oil is one of the most widely used herbal oils in natural skin care thanks to its gentle yet effective properties. Made from calendula flowers, also known as calendula officinalis or pot marigold, this oil is rich in beneficial compounds that support overall skin health.
Understanding the full range of calendula infused oil benefits can help you use it more intentionally in your daily routine and herbal preparations.
Calendula Infused Oil Skin Benefits
One of the biggest reasons people love this herbal oil is for its calendula infused oil skin benefits. It is especially helpful for dry skin and sensitive skin, as it helps lock in moisture while calming irritation.
Its natural anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for soothing redness, rough patches, and areas of discomfort. Because it is so gentle, it can be used regularly as part of a simple, natural skin care routine.
Calendula-infused oil also supports the skin barrier, helping the skin stay hydrated and protected. This makes it a great option for daily topical use, especially during colder months or when skin feels extra dry.
Soothing and Healing Properties
Another key part of calendula infused oil benefits is its reputation for supporting minor skin concerns. It has long been used in herbal remedies and herbal medicine cabinets to help with small cuts, scrapes, and general irritation.
Its healing properties make it a popular ingredient in calendula salve, healing salve recipes, and other skincare products designed to comfort and protect the skin.
Gentle and Family Friendly
Calendula infused oil is known for being mild and well tolerated, which makes it a great option for the whole family. It is commonly used in products designed for delicate or sensitive skin due to its calming nature.
When paired with a high quality carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, or cold-pressed olive oil, it becomes a nourishing and versatile addition to everyday skin care.
Supports Massage and Circulation
Calendula oil is often used in massage oils because of its soothing feel and its connection to the lymphatic system. It works well on its own or blended with other carrier oils to create relaxing oil blends for body care.
A Staple Herbal Oil
Among the many calendula infused oil benefits is its versatility. It can be used on its own, added to skincare products, or used as a base for other herbal preparations.
Whether you are making homemade salves, creating oil blends, or simply looking for a natural way to support your skin, calendula infused oil is a reliable and effective option.
Calendula Infused Oil Uses
There are many calendula infused oil uses, making this gentle herbal oil a staple in natural skin care and herbal preparations.
Everyday Skin Care
One of the most common calendula infused oil uses is as a daily moisturizer. It can be applied directly to the skin to support dry skin and sensitive skin, helping to lock in moisture and calm irritation. Carrier oils like jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, or cold-pressed olive oil can be chosen based on your skin care needs.
Salves and Balms
Calendula-infused oil is widely used to make calendula salve, healing salve, and lip balm. When combined with beeswax and optional ingredients like shea butter or essential oils, it creates simple and effective skincare products.
Massage and Body Uses
Another popular calendula infused oil use is in massage oils. It can be used on its own or blended with oils like grapeseed oil or avocado oil, and pairs well with essential oils for customized oil blends.
Bath and Topical Uses
Calendula oil can be added to a bath or applied after bathing to help seal in moisture. It is also commonly used for minor skin irritation and as a gentle herbal oil for everyday topical use.
Additional Uses
Calendula infused oil can be used on the scalp for dryness, as a base for other herbal preparations, or even in small amounts in salad dressing when made with a food-safe oil.
With so many calendula infused oil uses, it is a simple and versatile way to incorporate natural ingredients into your skin care routine and herbal remedies.
Calendula Infused Oil Recipe Ingredients
For this calendula infused oil recipe you will need
Ingredients
- Dried calendula flowers or dried calendula petals
- Carrier oil such as extra virgin olive oil, cold pressed olive oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil, argan oil, or castor oil
- vitamin E oil (optional for skin benefits and to extend shelf life)
Ingredient Notes
Always use dried flowers instead of fresh plant material since moisture can lead to spoilage. Whole flower heads or loose flower petals can both be used, though the flower petals are ideal because they increase surface area and improve extraction.
Choosing a high quality oil such as a cold pressed oil will give you the best finished calendula oil.
How to Make Calendula Infused Oil Using the Folk Method
The folk method is a traditional approach to making calendula infused oil that relies on time instead of heat.
Instructions for the Folk Method
1. Fill Mason Jar with Petals
Fill a clean glass jar or mason jar a little over half way with calendula flower petals
2. Add Your Carrier Oil
Pour your carrier oil of choice over the plant material until it is completely covered, leaving about one inch of space at the top of the jar. Use a clean utensil to gently press down the flower petals and release any trapped air bubbles. Make sure all plant material is fully submerged in the oil.
3. Place In A Warm Spot & Allow to Infuse for 4-6 weeks
Seal the jar and then place it in a warm spot such as a kitchen window while avoiding direct sunlight. Allow the calendula oil infusion to sit for a couple of weeks or up to six weeks, gently shaking the jar every few days to keep the herbs coated and evenly infused.
4. Strain the Oil
After the infusion process is complete, place a paper coffee filter or cheesecloth in a strainer set over a clean bowl or measuring cup. Slowly pour the infused calendula oil through the filter, allowing it to fully strain. This may take some time depending on the thickness of the oil and plant material.
5. Store Your Calendula Oil
Store your calendula-infused oil in a cool dark place at room temperature to preserve its shelf life and quality.
Folk Method Tips
- Store the final infused oil in a cool dark place if your home is warm
- Keep plant material fully submerged
- Avoid excess UV light exposure
How to Make Calendula Infused Oil Fast with The CrockPot Or Instant Pot
If you’re in a pinch for time and want to make calendula infused oil fast, this method uses very low heat to create hot oil infusions more quickly. There are many ways to do a heat infusion. I researched then to death when I was learning to make infused oils. You really just have to chose one and stick to it, but this method is one of the easiest and most straight forward.
The first couple of steps are exactly the same as the Folk Method. So you can refer to the step by step photos above.
Step 1: Fill Mason Jar with Petals (refer to photo in the folk method)
Fill a clean glass jar or mason jar a little over half way with calendula flower petals.
Step 2: Add Your Carrier Oil (refer to photo in the folk method)
Pour your carrier oil of choice over the plant material until it is completely covered, leaving about one inch of space at the top of the jar. Use a clean utensil to gently press down the flower petals and release any trapped air bubbles. Make sure all plant material is fully submerged in the oil.
Step 3: Place in the Instant Pot
Set a trivet inside your Instant Pot and place the jar on top of it. Add warm (not boiling) water to the pot until the water level reaches about half way up the mason jar or to the top of the oil line. Leave the lid off of the mason jar.
Step 4: Turn Instant Pot on Yogurt Mode and Start the Infusion Process
Select the yogurt. The goal is to maintain very low heat (around 110°F), not high temperatures. Let the calendula infuse in the instant pot for 6-8 hours. You can extend up to 24 hours for a stronger infused calendula oil if desired.
If you don’t have an Instant Pot you can use a crockpot set on the lowest heat setting. The ideal temperature for the water bath is 95°F to 120°F (35°C to 49°C). Don’t exceed 120°F.
Step 5: Strain The Oil
After the infusion process is complete, allow the oil to come to room temperature. Then place a paper coffee filter or cheesecloth in a strainer set over a clean bowl or measuring cup. Slowly pour the infused calendula oil through the filter, allowing it to fully strain. This may take some time depending on the thickness of the oil and plant material.
Step 6: Store Your Calendula Oil
Store your calendula-infused oil in a cool dark place at room temperature to preserve its shelf life and quality.
Tips for the Best Calendula Oil Infusion
- Use bright orange dried flowers as high quality raw material
- Avoid direct sunlight and excess UV light
- Keep herbs fully submerged in oil
- Label your jar with the start date
- Choose a quality oil based on your intended use
- Allow enough time for a full infusion process
How to Use Calendula Infused Oil
Calendula infused oil is a versatile herbal oil used in many skincare products and herbal preparations.
Popular Uses
- Homemade salves and healing salve recipes
- Calendula salve
- Lip balm
- Massage oils
- Oil blends with essential oils
- Mixed with shea butter for richer products
This soothing calendula oil is a great option for natural ingredients based skin care.
Growing Calendula for Oil Infusions
Calendula is an easy annual herb to grow from calendula seeds.
Growing Tips
- Plant in well drained soil
- Provide full sun
- Harvest flower petals regularly
Dry the flower petals in a paper bag and save seeds for next year so you can continue making your own calendula oil.
FAQ About Calendula Infused Oil
How long does calendula infused oil last?
The shelf life depends on the carrier oil used but is typically six to twelve months. Adding vitamin E can help extend shelf life.
Can I use fresh calendula flowers?
It is best to use dried flowers since fresh plant material contains moisture that can lead to spoilage.
What is the best carrier oil for calendula oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is a personal favorite but sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil are all great options depending on your skin care needs.
Can I speed up the infusion process?
Yes the slow cooker method or an instant pot can be used for hot oil infusions in just a few hours. Refer to my slower cooker method above.
How do I know when my calendula oil infusion is done?
The oil will develop a rich golden color and a mild floral scent.
Can I mix different oils together?
Yes blending oils such as olive oil with jojoba oil or grapeseed oil with avocado oil is a great way to customize your calendula infused oil.
What can I make with calendula infused oil?
You can use it to make calendula salve, lip balm, massage oils, bath bag blends, and other homemade salves and skincare products.
Is calendula safe for everyone?
Calendula is generally gentle but always test on a small area first. Consult a certified medical practitioner if you have concerns.
Final Thoughts on Calendula Infused Oil
Making calendula infused oil is a simple and rewarding way to create your own herbal oil using natural ingredients. Whether you choose the folk method or a slow cooker, you will end up with a soothing calendula oil rich in beneficial compounds and medicinal properties.
More Reader Favorite Natural Skincare Recipes
If you love this recipe then check out some of my other tallow skincare recipes:
- Tallow Lip Balm Recipe
- Homemade Diaper Rash Cream
- Calendula Infused Oil Salve
- Tallow Face Cream Recipe
If you do give this recipe a try, I want to know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @wholisticmandy on Instagram. Your reviews help support this blog and make it possible for me to continue to create the recipes you know and love.
How To Make Calendula Infused Oil (Folk Method & CrockPot Method)
Ingredients
- calendula flowers or calendula flower petals
- Carrier oil such as extra virgin olive oil you could also use sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or oil of choice
- vitamin E optional
Instructions
- Fill a clean glass jar or mason jar a little over half way with calendula flower petalscalendula flowers or calendula flower petals
- Pour your carrier oil of choice over the plant material until it is completely covered, leaving about one inch of space at the top of the jar. Use a clean utensil to gently press down the flower petals and release any trapped air bubbles. Make sure all plant material is fully submerged in the oil.Carrier oil such as extra virgin olive oil
- Seal the jar and then place it in a warm spot such as a kitchen window while avoiding direct sunlight. Allow the calendula oil infusion to sit for a couple of weeks or up to six weeks, gently shaking the jar every few days to keep the herbs coated and evenly infused.
- After the infusion process is complete, for the folk method, Alplace a paper coffee filter or cheesecloth in a strainer set over a clean bowl or measuring cup. Slowly pour the infused calendula oil through the filter, allowing it to fully strain. This may take some time depending on the thickness of the oil and plant material. Alternatively you can make the calendula oil quick using an instant pot or crockpot. Refer to the heat infusion method in the blog post
- Add the vitamin E if using and give it a stirvitamin E
- Store your calendula-infused oil in a glass jar in a cool dark place at room temperature to preserve its shelf life and quality.
