Have you used Calendula?

Calendula  or Calendula officinalisis one of my favorite herbs.  Please do not confuse it with the ornamental marigold which is genus Tagetes.  It is my go to for skin care though it has a wide range of uses. It's anti inflammatory and antiseptic properties is what makes  it shines for many external skin problems and injuries. Calendula can help to heal burns, wounds, bruises, and sprains. It may decreases swelling, clears infection, speeds tissue regeneration, and prevents scarring.

I add it to almost all my skin care products for it tissue regenerating abilities as well as it soothing anti-inflammatory properties.  It is in every baby products to help sooth and calm baby's skin and to decrease dermatitis or eczema.

Much of the healing properties of calendula are because of its high levels of carotenoids (vitamin A like compounds). These compounds are oil soluble therefore, making an infused oil with the Calendula makes sense. 

It is really easy to make an infused oil. Fill a jar about half way with the dried petals (if using fresh petals make sure that your calendula is dry and that the oil completely covers the plant material to prevent mold growth) and cover with olive oil or sunflower oil (I use only organic oils).  Let this oil set in a sunny window for two weeks or more shaking it periodically to help extract the properties from the flowers. Or if you do not have a sunny warm window, you can place the jar in a pan of water or use a double boiler and very gently simmer for several hours.  When ready to use filter the oil through cheesecloth. You can use this oil directly in a balm or just use the infused oil. This infused oil can help with skin regeneration, diaper rash, sunburn, and other inflammatory skin conditions.   

If you have used calendula before please share your experience.  If not I hope you will try it.