For centuries, calendula salve has been a go-to remedy for irritated skin—and for good reason. This vibrant, golden balm harnesses the anti-inflammatory powers of calendula, a flower proven to speed up wound healing and soothe conditions like eczema, sunburn, and dry, cracked skin. Unlike synthetic creams, this DIY calendula salve recipe uses only natural ingredients: dried calendula flowers steeped in skin-loving carrier oils like olive oil or sweet almond oil, combined with nourishing shea butter and beeswax.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to craft your own healing salve at home, using tools as simple as a glass jar and a makeshift double boiler. Plus, we’ll share sourcing tips for organic ingredients from trusted brands like Mountain Rose Herbs to ensure your salve is both pure and potent.
If you’re short on time or prefer a ready-made option, check out these high-quality calendula salves available on Amazon. They’re perfect for soothing dry, irritated skin and are made with natural ingredients.
Why This Calendula Salve Recipe Works
This calendula salve recipe combines the anti-inflammatory powers of calendula with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil to create a versatile balm for dry skin, cuts, or eczema. Perfect for DIYers who prefer organic ingredients from trusted suppliers like Mountain Rose Herbs, this guide ensures you master the process—from infusing dried calendula flowers to pouring the salve into glass jars.
Ingredients for Your Calendula Salve Recipe
- 1 cup dried calendula flowers (grow calendula at home for fresher petals!)
- 1 cup carrier oil (choose olive oil, sweet almond oil, or coconut oil)
- 1 oz beeswax pastilles
- 1 tbsp shea butter (adds richness and moisture retention)
- 10–15 drops lavender essential oil (or other essential oils like chamomile)
- A small amount of vitamin E oil (optional for preservation)
Tools Needed: Glass jars for storage, a measuring cup, and a makeshift double boiler.
Step-by-Step Calendula Salve Recipe
1. Infusing the Oil: Patience Pays Off
The key to a potent salve is a well-infused oil. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine dried calendula flowers with your chosen carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
- For a cold infusion, let the mixture steep for 4–6 weeks in a cool, dark place. Shake daily to redistribute the petals.
- Short on time? Use a makeshift double boiler: Simmer the jar in a bowl of water for 2–3 hours over low heat. Strain thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer, pressing the flowers with a spoon to extract every drop of oil.
2. Crafting the Salve Base
- In your double boiler, melt 1 oz beeswax with 1 cup calendula-infused oil and 1 tbsp shea butter.
- Pro Tip: Test the consistency by dripping a small amount onto a cold plate. If it’s too soft, add more beeswax; if too firm, add more oil.
- Stir in a small amount of vitamin E oil (½ tsp) for preservation.
3. Adding Essential Oils
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly (2–3 minutes) to preserve the potency of lavender essential oil. Stir in 10–15 drops.
4. Storing Your Salve
- Pour the liquid into sterilized glass jars or metal tins and let it solidify overnight. Label each jar with the date and ingredients for future reference.
Benefits of This DIY Calendula Salve
- Anti-Inflammatory Relief: Calendula’s natural compounds reduce redness, while sweet almond oil softens rough patches.
- Deep Moisturizing: Shea butter and coconut oil lock in hydration.
- Chemical-Free: Avoid additives with this homemade calendula salve.
5 Ways to Use Your Calendula Salve
This versatile salve tackles countless skin concerns:
- Dry Skin Savior: Massage into cracked heels or elbows before bed.
- Post-Sun Soother: Apply to sunburned skin for instant cooling relief.
- Diaper Rash Rescue: A natural alternative to zinc-based creams (patch-test first).
- Cuticle Treatment: Soften ragged cuticles with a pea-sized amount.
- Pet-Safe Balm: Use without essential oils on minor scratches or hot spots.
Why This Recipe Outshines Store-Bought Salves
- No Fillers: Commercial balms often contain petroleum or parabens. This calendula salve recipe uses only plant-based ingredients.
- Customizable: Swap lavender essential oil for chamomile for sensitive skin, or add powders of calendula for extra potency.
- Cost-Effective: One batch costs roughly 5–5–7 to make but retails for 15–15–20.
FAQ: Troubleshooting Your Calendula Salve
Q: Can I use fresh calendula flowers instead of dried?
A: Dry calendula is best—fresh petals contain moisture that can spoil the oil.
Q: How long does the salve last?
A: Stored in glass jars away from heat and light, it stays fresh for 6–12 months.
Q: My salve feels gritty. What went wrong?
A: This happens if beeswax isn’t fully melted. Reheat the mixture gently and stir thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
This calendula salve recipe is more than a DIY project—it’s a gateway to chemical-free skincare. With simple tools like a measuring cup and ingredients from Mountain Rose Herbs, you’ll create a healing balm that’s gentle enough for kids and effective enough for gardeners’ hands. Share your results in the comments or tag us on social media to show off your homemade salve!
