Calendula Tincture Recipe: Easy Guide for Natural Healing

Calendula, often known as pot marigold, is a vibrant, sunny flower beloved not only for its beauty but also for its impressive medicinal properties. Creating your own calendula tincture at home is a rewarding way to harness these benefits in a concentrated, easy-to-use form.

This tincture can soothe skin irritations, promote healing, and even support digestive health. Whether you’re a seasoned herbalist or a curious beginner, making calendula tincture is a straightforward process that yields a versatile remedy you’ll be proud to have in your natural wellness toolkit.

By infusing the petals in alcohol, you extract the powerful compounds that make calendula such a healing hero. This recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring that your tincture is potent, safe, and effective.

Plus, we’ll share tips on usage and variations, making this guide your go-to resource for calendula tincture making.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to try making your own calendula tincture. First, it’s incredibly cost-effective compared to store-bought tinctures, and you get to control the quality by using fresh, organic ingredients.

The process is simple and requires minimal equipment, making it accessible even if you’re new to herbal preparations.

Additionally, this tincture preserves the healing properties of calendula for long-term use. It’s a multipurpose remedy — great for soothing cuts, burns, rashes, and inflammation.

Plus, it has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making it a fantastic addition to your first-aid kit.

Finally, crafting your own tincture connects you with nature and tradition, offering a satisfying hands-on experience and a deeper appreciation for herbal medicine.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh calendula petals (dried petals can also be used but fresh is preferred)
• 1 cup high-proof vodka or grain alcohol (at least 40% ABV/80 proof)
• Optional: A small glass jar with a tight lid

Equipment

• Glass jar with airtight lid (mason jars work great)
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for filtering
• Measuring cups
• Funnel (to pour tincture into bottles)
• Dark glass dropper bottles for storage
• Label and pen for marking date and contents

Instructions

1. Harvest and prepare the calendula petals. Pick fresh petals from healthy calendula plants, ensuring they are free from pesticides or dirt. Gently rinse the petals and pat dry with a clean towel.
2. Fill the jar with petals. Place the petals loosely into your glass jar until it is about half full. Do not pack too tightly as you want the alcohol to fully saturate the petals.
3. Add the alcohol. Pour the vodka or grain alcohol over the petals until they are completely submerged, filling the jar almost to the top, leaving about half an inch of headspace.
4. Seal and label the jar. Close the jar tightly and label it with the date and contents to keep track of the infusion time.
5. Store the jar. Place the jar in a cool, dark place for 4 to 6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every couple of days to help extract the medicinal compounds.
6. Strain the tincture. After the infusion period, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, pressing gently to get as much liquid as possible.
7. Transfer to storage bottles. Using a funnel, pour the tincture into dark glass dropper bottles. Label bottles with the date and contents.
8. Store properly. Keep your calendula tincture in a cool, dark place. It can last for several years if stored correctly.

Tips & Variations

“For a stronger tincture, use a 1:2 herb to alcohol ratio or extend the infusion time to 8 weeks.”

While fresh petals offer the best potency, dried calendula petals can be used at a ratio of 1:5 herb to alcohol because dried herbs are more concentrated. If you prefer an alcohol-free version, glycerin can replace vodka, but this will result in a sweeter, less potent tincture.

You can also blend calendula with other herbs like lavender or chamomile for a synergistic effect. This is particularly useful if you want a tincture aimed at calming skin irritations or promoting relaxation.

When harvesting petals, avoid flowers that are fully mature and starting to wilt. The best time to harvest is mid-morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Since tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts, they generally contain low amounts of macronutrients but are rich in bioactive plant compounds.

Serving Suggestions

Calendula tincture is most commonly used topically. Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil or water and apply directly to minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites, or irritated skin for soothing relief.

It can also be added to homemade skincare formulations like balms and lotions.

Internally, calendula tincture can support digestion and immune health. Consult a healthcare professional before internal use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or on medication.

Typical dosage is 1–2 ml (about 20–40 drops) diluted in water up to three times daily.

For first-time users, perform a patch test by applying a small amount diluted on the skin to check for sensitivity or allergic reactions.

Conclusion

Making your own calendula tincture is a gratifying way to tap into the natural healing power of this beautiful flower. This recipe is simple, requiring just a few ingredients and a bit of patience while the tincture infuses.

The end result is a versatile, potent herbal remedy perfect for soothing skin issues and supporting overall wellness.

By crafting your own tincture, you gain control over the quality and purity of your herbal remedies. Plus, the process offers a wonderful chance to connect with traditional herbal practices and deepen your appreciation for nature’s pharmacy.

Whether used topically or internally, calendula tincture is a staple worth having in your natural medicine cabinet.

For more herbal inspiration, check out our other guides such as “Lavender Oil Recipe”, “Chamomile Tea Blend”, and “Homemade Echinacea Syrup” to expand your natural wellness repertoire.

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