The calendula (Calendula officinalis) flowers are drying nicely.
At this point I can make an olive oil infusion with the flowers, or I can grind the flowers to make a powder.
I am going to make a powder. I doubt that I get much powder from this batch of flowers. I believe it would take many, many more flowers to produce even a cup of calendula powder.
The calendula powder, or flowers infused in oil, will be an ingredient in goat milk soap.
A few tidbits about calendula:
- considered a herb
- flowers are used in teas, tinctures, infusions
- used in cooking – cakes, frostings, bakery items
- can help soothe irritated skin – aids in digestion
- used in salves for minor cuts, abrasions, and chapped lips
- not to be confused with the common marigold (Tagetes species)
A few years ago I used the calendula in a recipe for cleanser (here and here), and ended up using it all winter as a salve. Working on a farm with water buckets, birthing kids, cold weather, occasionally causes small cracks in the skin of my fingers. The salve worked great for the skin problem, and then I discovered how wonderful it was for lips as well. And it smelled wonderful!
I will post photos of the calendula goat milk soap here. It will likely be a small batch, definitely a limited edition!
Annie’s Goat Hill Handcrafted Soaps – Smell and Feel the Goodness!
Annies Goat Hill Handcrafted Soaps 