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In alternative medicine, calendula oil is a well-known remedy for treating skin problems. How to prepare it at home?
Calendula, with a scientific name Calendula officinalis, It is a plant that is used for medicinal purposes due to its properties. In particular, Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, healing and soothing qualities are attributed to it. Do you want to learn how to prepare calendula oil?
For years, this derivative of calendula has been one of the most popular natural remedies to soothe skin problems. In fact, some studies speak of its beneficial properties for skin care. In the next space we will tell you how to make it.
Properties and benefits of calendula oil
To prepare calendula oil, the flowers of the plant are taken and infused in a carrier oil. Once the preparation is obtained, this It is added in ointments, creams, and a variety of other topical products.
Flowers, as one review shared on National Center for Biotechnology Information, They contain triterpenic glycosides and aglycones, carotenoids, and essential oils. Hence much of its beneficial effects on the skin. What is it for?
Solar protection
One of the most outstanding characteristics of calendula oil is its ability to protect the skin from the effects of solar radiation. On this, a laboratory study disclosed in Journal of Young Pharmacists determined that Calendula oil cream formulation has good sun protection activity. Still, more studies are required.
In any case, this derivative of calendula can be useful as a complement to facial care. The important thing is not to use it as a substitute for conventional sunscreen.
Wound recovery
In traditional medicine, calendula oil has been used as an ally to accelerate the healing of superficial wounds. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties They contribute to a better healing process for these types of injuries.
A research shared in Journal of Caring Sciences found that applying an aloe vera and calendula oil ointment helped speed up episiotomy recovery time. The latter is the incision that is made in the perineum during childbirth.
The researchers linked the use of this product with a decrease in redness, swelling and bruises. Even so, more studies are required and it should not be considered a first-line treatment.
Dermatitis
Skin disorders must be addressed by the dermatologist. However, products that contain calendula oil can be a supplement to relieve symptoms. In this regard, a I study in Journal of Clinical Oncology found that calendula is effective in preventing acute dermatitis in people receiving radiation therapy for breast cancer.
Acne
Since ancient times, the oil and other derivatives of calendula have been a remedy for fighting acne. Its antiseptic properties They help clean pores and reduce the presence of bacteria associated with this disease. In addition, its anti-inflammatory effects help reduce comedones.
Although the evidence is quite limited, a laboratory study found that calendula extract has positive effects in the treatment and prevention of acne vulgaris. Thus, the oil can be used in creams, ointments and other localized approaches.
How to prepare homemade calendula oil?
Right now, calendula oil is available in drug stores, cosmetic stores, herbalists, and online stores. However, the plant is easy to grow and with its petals you can prepare the oil at home. Simply, a carrier oil is required, be it olive, coconut, almond or jojoba.
In this case, we propose the jojoba one. Its composition will help to reinforce the properties of calendula.
As detailed by a I study in Polymers, this variety has antioxidant, anti-acne, anti-psoriasis, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial effects. Do you dare to make the recipe?
You need the following
- 150 grams of dried calendula petals.
- 200 milliliters of jojoba oil.
- Sterilized glass jar with airtight lid.
Instructions for preparing calendula oil
- To start, fill the jar halfway with the marigold petals.
- Next, pour the oil over the petals until the jar is almost full.
- Now, secure the lid and put the mixture in a warm place for a month. Ideally, put it where the sun hits it.
- From time to time, shake the jar to redistribute its contents.
- When the recommended time elapses, pass the oil through a strainer and put it in a clean jar.
- The final product can be stored in any furniture with a dry and cool environment.
How to use
- Take a few drops of the oil and rub it on your skin to hydrate.
- In case of acne, apply the product on the lesions and let it act without rinsing.
Are there any risks when using this product?
For most people, calendula oil is safe and not a problem. However, its application should be avoided in case of a history of allergy to the plants of the family. Asteraceae / Compositae.
Ideally, do a small test of the product on an area of the skin before applying it in its entirety.
What to remember about calendula oil?
Calendula oil is credited with a wide variety of skin benefits in popular literature. However, its effects are not immediate or miraculous.
Evidence has determined that has potential as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and soothing. However, more studies are required to corroborate all this.
For the above, should be used only in specific cases, as a complement to take care of the skin and not as a first-choice remedy. In case of acne, psoriasis, eczema or any other skin disease, it is best to follow the treatment suggested by the dermatologist.
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