How to make calendula salve

Calendula is a beautiful yellow or orange flower traditionally grown as an ornamental plant, but with amazing medicinal properties as well. It can be used in teas, but also to make infused calendula oil or calendula salves. In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about how to make calendula salve at home.

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A calendula salve is extremely easy to make and it can be used like a cream that has all the amazing benefits of calendula. Here’s everything you need to know about calendula salve!

What is calendula salve?

Salves are essentially creams made from herbs, beeswax, and other ingredients. They’re used as topical ointments to treat skin conditions like acne. They can also be used on minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.

To make calendula salve, you’ll need calendula oil. I explained the step-by-step method above, so in case you don’t have it already, you can easily make it at home.

Supplies needed

mason jars or other containers with lids (such as empty cream containers)
a double broiler – if you don’t have a double broiler, you can use a pot/stainless steel/glass bowl within a pot

Ingredients needed

If you want a firm calendula salve, here’s what you’ll need:

1 part beeswax
4 parts calendula oil

Optional: shea butter for extra moisturizing properties and/or essential oils (3-4 drops) for a better smell. In case you want to add essential oils, I strongly recommend choosing a certified organic oil such as eucalyptus, peppermint, lemon, or anything else you prefer.

Instructions for making calendula salve at home

This is a great DIY project for anyone looking to make their own herbal products. It’s easy and fun, and you can use the salve on your whole family. Here are the step-by-step instructions for making calendula salve at home:

Combine all ingredients in a double broiler pot or a pot within a pot over medium heat on the stove. Make sure you add enough water to the bottom pot. It’s important to use the double broiler method because we don’t want to overheat the calendula oil; overheating will cause the oil to lose some of its healing properties;
Heat on medium-low heat until the beeswax melts completely while stirring occasionally;
Remove from heat. While the mixture is still hot, pour it into the containers without lids;
Wait for the salve to harden and then put the lids on the glasses/containers.

How to use calendula salve

Apply a small amount of salve to the affected area and allow it to soak in. You can use calendula salve twice daily for up to two weeks in case you have a rash – or as needed depending on your problem and desired result.

After using calendula salve on dry skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis for two weeks straight (or as directed by your doctor), it should be safe for you to stop applying it altogether. However, if symptoms recur, it is advised to speak to your doctor.

DIY calendula salve storage and shelf life

Once your salve is ready, you should store it in a cool, dark place where it will be away from heat, sunlight, and moisture. If you have a pantry or cabinet that has good airflow, this would be an ideal spot for your homemade calendula salve!

I hope this post has helped you learn more about calendula and how to benefit from its unique healing properties. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below and I will do my best to offer you the best answers!