Calendula for Sunburn

Marigold is a yellow to orange petaled composite flower (daisy-like). As a topical ointment for the skin, it shines. Effective and gentle, a simple infused oil of olive or coconut can be a life-saver. It is a vulnerary - plant that promotes healing- and it's specialty is the skin. This makes it liquid gold for sunburns. It works internally as an alcohol extract or tea but used on the surface tissue it's properties can be visually witnessed. As some may know, I spent the weekend at the beach. I was sure to pack my homemade oil to test it's efficacy and, lo and behold, no achy, hot skin.

The batch I made digested for four days out in the garden. We have had a relatively mild May so I was able to leave it for longer than I'd hoped! The result is a potent, sweet-smelling oil.




Note the golden color. When you make your own infused oil at home, you want the essence of the petals to transfer to the oil. You'll know that it has reached maximum potency when the plant material is less golden than the liquid.

Since I have given all the directions for manufacturing the oil (this can sometimes be the easiest part) the more useful information, then, would be getting the calendula from the oil onto you!


To use:

This oil would best be stored in a opaque or amber container. This doesn't show off it's beautiful color, but it will preserve better this way. In addition, add 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of Vitamin E oil per ounce of infused coconut oil. Vitamin E is a master skin healer as well as a preservative to the oil. You can also add lavender essential oil or rosemary essential oil if you have it. Lavender is my favorite aroma of all time and rosemary is a close second and both of these are preservative to the oil as well. They are both also antiseptic!


After this, the oil is ready to use! To treat a sunburn simply rub a nickel sized amount between the palms and massage onto the face, arm or shoulder. Don't forget the ears!


IMPORTANT
Calendula is not a substitute for proper sun protection. If it means applying sunblock lotion, wearing a hat, or staying in the shade do what you know is appropriate for your skin health. Calendula heals damaged and vulnerable tissue, it is not a sunblock.

For an herbal/nutritional measure to prevent sunburn look forward to the next post! Hint: it's easy to get and you should begin today, Desert Dwellers!



Marta, Herbalist