Calendula

Calendula, known for its vibrant orange or yellow flowers, is widely regarded for its soothing properties and its use in natural remedies for skin care and inflammation reduction. Here's how to use Calendula in teas and tinctures:

In Teas:

1. Flower Tea: To prepare a Calendula tea, steep about one to two teaspoons of dried Calendula flowers in a cup of boiling water for about 10 minutes. This tea has a mild, slightly bitter taste and is often sweetened with honey or blended with other herbs such as chamomile or mint to enhance its flavor and therapeutic benefits.
2. Herbal Blends: Calendula can be combined with other soothing herbs like lavender or lemon balm to create a relaxing and healing tea blend, perfect for evening consumption to promote calm and relaxation.

In Tinctures:

1. Alcohol Extraction: Fill a jar one-third full with dried Calendula flowers, then cover the flowers entirely with high-proof alcohol (like vodka or brandy) to extract their beneficial compounds. Seal the jar and place it in a dark, cool area, shaking it daily for about 4 to 6 weeks. Strain the flowers out, and your Calendula tincture is ready for use, typically applied in small doses directly to the skin or diluted in water.
2. Glycerin Tincture: For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, use glycerin instead of alcohol. The preparation remains the same, with glycerin providing a sweeter base, making it an excellent choice for creating a skin-soothing tincture that's gentle enough for frequent use.

Calendula tea can be enjoyed regularly as part of a routine for its gentle health benefits, particularly for soothing the digestive tract and supporting skin health from the inside. The tincture is often used topically to aid in healing cuts, scrapes, and to soothe irritated skin, though it can also be taken internally in diluted form for its anti-inflammatory effects. As always, it’s wise to start with small amounts to test for any sensitivities and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or are using other medications.