How To Make Calendula Oil + Benefits & Uses

Unlike complex DIY products that need special tools, calendula oil infusion is incredibly simple. You just soak dried calendula petals in your favorite carrier oil and let time (or gentle heat) do the work.

Whether you’re creating a luxurious body oil, prepping ingredients for a sugar scrub, or building a soothing scalp oil, homemade calendula-infused oil is a beautiful starting point.

What Is Calendula Oil?

Calendula oil is a herbal infusion made by soaking dried calendula petals in a carrier oil over a period of time. The oil gradually absorbs the color, scent, and beneficial compounds from the flower petals,

reating a golden, lightly fragrant oil that’s perfect for natural self-care recipes.

This type of calendula oil infusion has been used traditionally in handmade skincare and body oils thanks to its nourishing feel and skin-soothing reputation.

While we avoid making health claims, many DIYers love it for:

• Adding a soft, silky texture to lotions and body butters
• Enhancing the ritual feel of massage or bath oils
• Creating comforting blends for sensitive or dry skin
• Mixing into salves, scrubs, or even scalp oils

Making your own calendula-infused oil also gives you full control over what goes in – no artificial fragrances, preservatives, or unknown additives. You can customize it based on your preferences, whether you want a lightweight oil for facial use or a rich base for healing balms.

In short: Calendula oil = dried calendula + carrier oil + time (or gentle heat) = natural beauty in a bottle.

Calendula Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair

One of the best things about calendula-infused oil is how versatile it is in your natural beauty routine.

This golden oil offers a soft, nurturing feel for both skin and hair, whether you’re crafting a DIY body oil, treating your scalp to a warm oil massage, or mixing up a gentle balm.

Let’s take a closer look at how you can enjoy the lifestyle benefits of using calendula oil for skin and hair, no complicated ingredients or claims, just natural comfort and care.

Calendula Oil Benefits for Skin

Calendula oil is a favorite in handmade body care for its lightweight feel and soothing scent. While everyone’s skin is different, here are some of the ways you can enjoy using it:

• Adds a soft, silky texture to homemade body oils and butters
• Feels gentle on sensitive skin, making it a go-to for baby oils and minimalist skincare blends
• Lovely after-sun or post-shave oil, thanks to its calming touch
• Great base for facial oils when combined with jojoba or almond oil
• Pairs beautifully with lavender or chamomile essential oils for a relaxing massage oil

If you enjoy a slow, self-care ritual at the end of the day, calendula oil is the perfect base to personalize your blends.

Calendula Oil Benefits for Hair

While calendula oil is best known for its skincare uses, it can also be part of your natural haircare routine, especially if you’re looking for a gentle oil to add softness and shine.

Here’s how you can use calendula oil for hair:

• Scalp massage oil: Warm slightly and massage into the scalp before shampooing. Use as part of a relaxing pre-wash ritual.
• Leave-in shine oil: Apply a tiny amount to dry ends to smooth frizz and add light shine (choose lighter oils like jojoba or grapeseed for this use).
• DIY hair masks: Combine with coconut oil, honey, or aloe for a nourishing treatment
• Part of an herbal oil blend: Mix with rosemary- or lavender-infused oil for a natural hair serum

Pro tip: Strain your calendula oil well and use a fine mesh or cheesecloth if applying near your scalp, no one wants petal bits in their hair!

Ingredients & Supplies to Make Calendula Oil

Making your own calendula oil infusion doesn’t require any fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients. In fact, you likely have most of these items at home already. The process is simple. Using clean, dry materials is key to making an oil that smells and feels fresh for months.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Dried Calendula Petals: Look for bright yellow to orange dried petals — they should be crisp, not damp or faded.
Carrier Oil: This is the base of your infusion. Choose the oil based on how you plan to use your finished calendula oil.

Optional Additions

Vitamin E Oil: A few drops can support freshness and extend shelf life
Other Herbs: Rose petals, chamomile flowers, or lavender buds can be infused along with calendula for a custom herbal oil

Supplies

Glass Jar with Lid: A mason jar or any clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
Fine Mesh Strainer or Cheesecloth: For straining the petals after infusing
Dark Glass Bottle: Amber bottles help protect the oil from sunlight, extending shelf life
Label: Always label your oil with the date and ingredients used
Optional: Funnel or Dropper: For easy pouring and use

You’ve got your ingredients and tools and are all set to begin your calendula oil infusion. In the next section, I walk you through two easy methods to make calendula-infused oil – a slow, sun-infused method and a faster heated method for when you’re short on time.

Fresh vs. Dried Calendula Flowers: Why Dry Is Best for Infused Oils

If you’ve got calendula blooming in your garden, you might wonder whether you can use fresh petals for your calendula oil infusion.

While it’s tempting to go straight from flower to jar, it’s highly recommended to use dried calendula flowers for oil infusions.

Here’s why:

• Moisture from fresh petals can spoil the oil: Fresh flowers contain water, and when sealed in oil, that moisture can lead to bacterial growth, mold, or fermentation, especially over time.
• Dried petals are shelf-stable and safer: Drying removes the moisture content, making them ideal for long infusions without the risk of contamination. The final oil will last longer and stay fresher.
• Dried calendula still holds its vibrant color and properties: When dried properly (out of direct sunlight, with good airflow), calendula petals retain their golden hue and infuse beautifully.

Tip: Yes, you can use calendula flowers from your garden with these tips for the best results. Harvest the flowers in the morning, pat gently with a dry cloth to remove any moisture, and dry flat in a well-ventilated area away from sunlight. Store in a glass jar once fully dry.

In short, for a safe and long-lasting calendula oil infusion, dried petals are the way to go. Choose organic calendula if possible to avoid pesticides, especially for skincare use.

Best Oils for Calendula Oil Infusion

There are several carrier oils you can choose from. Choose one that suits your skin and your purpose:

Jojoba Oil: Lightweight and close to the skin’s natural sebum — ideal for facial use

Sweet Almond Oil: Smooth and versatile, works well for both skin and hair

Grapeseed Oil: Light and non-greasy, great for scalp oils or massage

Fractionated Coconut Oil: Clear, stable, and non-greasy with a long shelf life

Olive Oil: Rich and traditional, great for body oils and balms

Want to make a scalp-friendly calendula oil for hair? Try jojoba or grapeseed oil for a non-greasy finish.

How to Make Calendula Oil: Two Easy Methods

There are two simple ways to make calendula-infused oil at home, one slow and sun-kissed, the other quick and heat-assisted. Both are effective, so you can choose the method that fits your time and style best.

These methods let you enjoy the golden goodness of calendula in your own DIY creations, from skincare lotions to nourishing scalp treatments.

Method 1: Solar Infusion (Traditional Method)

This hands-off method uses time and sunlight to slowly infuse the calendula petals into your carrier oil. It’s the most traditional approach and allows the oil to gently absorb the flower’s scent, color, and beneficial properties.

Step-by-Step to Make Calendula Oil by Slow Infusion:

1. Fill a clean, dry glass jar halfway with dried calendula petals.
2. Pour your chosen carrier oil over the petals until they are fully submerged. The petals must stay fully submerged to avoid mold or spoilage
3. Stir gently to release any trapped air bubbles, then seal the jar tightly.
4. Place the jar in a warm, sunny windowsill for 3 to 4 weeks, shaking gently every few days.
5. After infusing, strain the oil using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer.

Store the finished oil in a clean, amber glass bottle away from direct sunlight.

With this cold infusion method, you get a long-lasting calendula oil with a vibrant golden color

This method is best for traditionalists who enjoy slow, intentional herbal projects. However, it does take time to obtain the infusion, so plan ahead if you want to use it for a project or gift.

Method 2: Quick Heat Infusion – How to Make Calendula Oil Fast

Short on time? You can still make calendula oil fast using gentle heat. This is called the hot method.

This method speeds up the infusion process and is perfect when you need your calendula oil ready for a weekend project or gift basket.

Step-by-Step to Make Calendula Oil Fast by Hot Infusion:

1. Combine dried calendula petals and carrier oil in a heatproof glass jar or bowl. Use 1 part dried petals to 2–3 parts oil.
2. Place the jar in a double boiler setup or a small saucepan filled with 1–2 inches of water.
3. Warm gently over very low heat for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. The oil should feel warm, not hot. Be careful not to allow the oil to simmer or boil.
5. Once infused, remove from heat and let it cool completely.
6. Strain and bottle just as you would for the solar method.

This method offers fast results and is great for last-minute DIY gifts or small-batch projects

Use caution when using this method to make calendula oil fast. Overheating can degrade the oil or give it a burnt scent. Gentle heat is the key. You’re warming the oil just enough to help it absorb the calendula without cooking the petals.

How to Strain and Store Your Calendula Infused Oil

Once your calendula petals have released their golden goodness into the oil, it’s time to strain, bottle, and store it properly. This final step is simple but important — the way you store your calendula oil infusion can affect both its scent and shelf life.

Straining the Calendula Infusion

You want your finished oil to be clear, petal-free, and ready to use in any DIY skincare or haircare recipe.

To strain the infusion, place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a clean bowl or glass measuring cup.

Slowly pour the infused oil into the strainer, allowing the oil to filter through and leaving the petals behind.

For a clearer finish, you can strain a second time through fresh cheesecloth. Gently squeeze out the cloth (if using) to extract every last drop of oil.

Tip: Avoid using coffee filters. They’re too slow and may absorb too much oil.

Optional Additions to Enhance Your Calendula Oil

While calendula-infused oil is lovely on its own, you can personalize it with a few simple additions , especially if you plan to use it in DIY skincare or haircare recipes. These extras add beauty, aroma, or shelf-life benefits, depending on your needs.

Here are a few optional ingredients to consider:

Vitamin E Oil: A few drops of vitamin E act as a natural antioxidant and can help extend the shelf life of your oil. It’s especially useful if you’re using oils with a shorter lifespan, like grapeseed or sweet almond oil.

Other Herbs or Flowers: Want a more complex infusion? Try combining calendula with dried rose petals, chamomile flowers, or lavender buds before infusing. This can deepen the color and aroma of your oil naturally.

Essential Oils (Optional and to be added after straining): If you enjoy scented oils, add a few drops of essential oil after your infusion is complete and fully cooled. Stick to skin-friendly oils and use sparingly — just 3–6 drops per ounce of infused oil is enough for most uses.

Popular essential oil pairings:

• Lavender: calming and classic
• Roman Chamomile: gentle and soothing
• Frankincense: grounding and resinous
• Geranium: floral and uplifting
• Rosemary: ideal for hair oil blends

⚠️ Always patch test if using on the face or sensitive skin.

Botanical Finishes (For gifts or display): Once your oil is infused and strained, you can add a pinch of dried petals back into the bottle for visual appeal — just make sure they’re completely dry and only use this for short-term display oils or gifts.

Storing Homemade Calendula Infused Oil

Now that your oil is infused and strained, proper storage will keep it fresh and fragrant for longer.

Use a dark glass bottle or jar (amber or cobalt blue are ideal) to protect the oil from sunlight.

Label your bottle with the type of carrier oil used and the infusion date.

Store in a cool, dark place like a cabinet, drawer, or shaded shelf.

Shelf life: Typically 6 to 12 months, depending on the carrier oil used and storage conditions.

Want to extend shelf life? Add a few drops of vitamin E oil — it acts as a natural antioxidant.

How to Use Calendula Infused Oil

Now for the fun part , using your golden calendula oil infusion! Its soft scent, gorgeous color, and skin-loving texture make it perfect for a variety of natural beauty projects.

Here are some of the most popular ways to enjoy it:

As a Body Oil:

Use straight from the bottle as a light moisturizer after bathing or for massage. Warm a few drops in your hands and smooth over damp skin.

In Bath and Spa Blends

Add a tablespoon to your bathwater for a silky, sensory soak. It pairs beautifully with Epsom salts, dried flowers, or a few drops of essential oil.

As a Face or Scalp Oil

Gently massage a few drops into your face or scalp, especially after cleansing. Use a lightweight carrier like jojoba for facial blends and a non-greasy option like grapeseed for hair.

In DIY Beauty Recipes

Calendula-infused oil is an excellent base for many homemade skincare items. You get the benefits of both calendula and the carrier oil that you used for the infusion.

Infuse calendula flowers in your chosen carrier oil and use it in any or all of these recipes:

• Body butters or balms
• Sugar scrubs
• Facial serums or night oils
• Hair masks or leave-in oils
• Herbal salves

Infused oils are incredibly easy to make and can be used in so many different ways. Want to explore more? You’ll find detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to make rose oil wth dried and fresh petals, arnica-infused oil, and yarrow oil.

If you love the smell of coffee in the morning or any other time of the day, you’ll love this homemade coffee-infused oil. It’s easy to make, has a rich, full-bodied aroma, and can be used in a variety of caffeine skincare recipes. Use it in this delightful layered coffee bath salts or this eye cream for puffy eyes.

Make Calendula Oil a Staple in Your DIY Routine

Infusing calendula in oil is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to bring the beauty of herbs into your everyday self-care routine. It’s low-effort, budget-friendly, and endlessly versatile, making it ideal for crafting natural skincare, spa-style gifts, or hair oil blends that feel like a treat every time you use them.

Whether you’ve chosen the slow solar method or learned how to make calendula oil fast with gentle heat, your finished oil is a golden jar of sunshine ready to nourish and inspire.

Precautions When Using Calendula Oil

Calendula-infused oil is considered one of the gentlest herbal oils, but it’s still wise to keep a few precautions in mind:

Patch Test First: Always do a small patch test before using calendula oil on your face or sensitive skin — especially if you’re trying it for the first time or adding essential oils to your blend.

Avoid Use on Open Wounds: While calendula is often used in natural salves, avoid applying infused oils directly to broken or open skin unless advised by a trained herbalist.

Not for Internal Use: This oil is intended for external, cosmetic use only — it should not be taken internally or used in cooking.

Allergies: If you have known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae (daisy) family — like chamomile, ragweed, or echinacea — use calendula with care, as cross-reactions are possible.

Pregnancy & Children: While calendula is typically considered safe, always consult with a qualified practitioner before using herbal products on babies, during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding — especially if combining it with other ingredients.

Calendula-infused oil is a beautiful, gentle addition to any natural body care collection

Whether you go the traditional route or learn how to make calendula oil fast, it’s an easy, rewarding DIY
It’s versatile for skin, hair, and homemade gifts — all made with your personal touch

Calendula Infused Oil FAQs

Best Pre-Made Calendula Oil Options

Don’t have time to make calendula oil at home? Not everyone has the time or inclination to make calendula-infused oil at home, and that’s completely understandable. If you’re looking for premade options, here are a few that have gotten great reviews.

Gya Labs Organic Calendula Oil for Skin – 100% Pure Natural Calendula Carrier Oil for Face, Hair Health, Body Lotions, Soaps & Moisturizer (1 Fl Oz)

Everyday Beauty Organic Calendula Oil For Sensitive Skin – USDA Certified 100% Natural Plant Based, Lightweight & Unscented Gentle Soothing Oil For Sensitive Skin – For Face, Skin & All Over – 1 Fl Oz

Pranarom USDA Certified Organic French Calendula Virgin Plant Oil – 2 fl oz Glass Bottle – Gentle Soothing Oil for Sensitive Skin, Moisturizer