The Magic of Calendula: How to Make Your Own Multipurpose Oil

Calendula flowers have been used for centuries as a natural remedy. They are known for their healing, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties. Calendula is gentle enough for sensitive skin, yet effective enough to make a visible difference in both skin and hair health. Here’s why we love it and how to make your own multipurpose calendula oil at home.

Why Calendula Stands Out

Calendula, often referred to as marigold, is rich in natural antioxidants and plant compounds. These elements help calm irritation, protect the skin barrier, and support healing. You’ll find calendula in many “clean” beauty products, but you don’t need to buy anything fancy to enjoy its benefits.

6 Ways Calendula Supports Healthy Hair & Skin

1. Supports Scalp Health and Hair Growth

Massaging calendula oil into the scalp can boost circulation. It reduces flaking and creates the right conditions for stronger, healthier hair to grow. It also soothes an itchy or dry scalp.

2. Calms Irritated Skin and Scalp

Whether you're reacting to a product, sunburn, or eczema, calendula helps reduce redness, itching, and inflammation. Its calming properties make it a go-to remedy for various skin irritations.

3. Deeply Moisturises

The natural oils and fatty acids in calendula lock in moisture and soften dry patches. It’s especially effective for chapped lips, hands, or skin needing extra care in colder months.

4. Clears Breakouts

Calendula has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It helps keep pores clean and calm. Unlike most acne treatments, it doesn’t strip the skin or leave it feeling tight.

5. Protects Against Signs of Ageing

Calendula is packed with antioxidants that protect against environmental damage and signs of ageing. Used regularly, it can support your skin’s natural collagen production, keeping it smooth and plump.

6. Kind to Sensitive Skin

Calendula is gentle enough for babies and individuals with skin conditions like rosacea or eczema. If your skin reacts to everything, calendula could be a safe, calming option.

DIY Calendula Oil Recipe (For Hair + Skin)

You don’t need a shelf full of products to achieve results. This easy-to-infuse oil takes just one day to make. It can be used in many ways — as a scalp oil, pre-wash treatment, moisturiser, or massage oil.

What You’ll Need:

• ½ cup dried calendula petals

• 1 cup carrier oil (jojoba, sweet almond, avocado, apricot kernel, etc.)

• Optional: a few drops of vitamin E oil as a preservative or rosemary essential oil

• A slow cooker

• A sterilised glass jar with a tight lid

• A cheesecloth

  
  

Watch Our Calendula Oil Making Video

1. Ensure Your Petals Are Fully Dry: This is crucial to avoid mould. If you’re using fresh petals, let them air dry for 24 hours first.

2. Combine Oil and Petals: Add your flowers and oil(s) to the sterilised jar and fasten the lid.

3. Infuse with Heat: Gently infuse the calendula flowers and your chosen oil(s) in the slow cooker with the lid off. Keeping the lid off helps prevent moisture from building up and spoiling your oil. Keep the jar in the slow cooker on a low setting for around 6-9 hours.

4. Strain and Store: Empty the jar into the cheesecloth with a bowl underneath. Squeeze the flowers to extract every last drop of oil. Then pour the infused oil into a clean, sterilised dark glass bottle. Store it in a cool, dark cupboard and use within 6 months.

5. Optional Extras: If you think you might not use it quickly enough, consider using a preservative like a few drops of rosemary essential oil or vitamin E oil.

How to Use Calendula Oil

For Hair: Massage a small amount into your scalp and roots 30 minutes before washing. Alternatively, add a few drops to your conditioner for extra softness and shine.

For Skin: Use it as a light daily moisturiser, part of a facial massage routine, or mix it into your own DIY creams or balms.

The Benefits of Making Your Own Calendula Oil

Calendula is one of those simple ingredients that just works. It’s affordable, easy to use, and kind to both skin and hair. When you make your own infusion at home, you know exactly what’s in it — no fillers, no chemicals, no confusion.

We love using it as part of a weekly self-care routine or whenever our skin needs a reset. Let us know about your experience with calendula in the comments.