What is a Calendula Plant? 

Also known as Calendula Officinalis. It is a plant that was named by the ancient Romans who observed it blooming on the first day of every month. They looked upon the non-stop blooming plants as a symbol of joy and happiness. Ancient Egyptians used it as a rejuvenating herb. Hindus used it to decorate altars. Greeks used it for food flavoring. During the civil war, doctors used it to treat open wounds.

The main actions for use of the Calendula Plant are:

• Anti- Inflammatory
• Antiseptic
• Antibacterial
• Detoxifies
• Heals wounds
• Menstrual Regulator
• Relieves Muscle Spasms
• Prevents Hemorrhaging 

Calendula has antifungal and antimicrobial properties that help prevent infection, they can also help heal injuries to your body tissue. The Calendula flower is also known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components, which might help to fight cancer, protect against heart disease, and ease muscle fatigue.

What does it taste like?

Calendula flowers have a soft, and sweet aroma. Followed by a warm spice undertone. Their flavor is mild and sweetly vegetal to slightly bitter, and this becomes more intense when you dry them. A drop of honey is a pleasant complement.

Calendula Tea Recipe

Calendula can be used to make tinctures and infused oils but the tea is by far my favorite way to harness this flowers AMAZING healing power! Plus, it's so easy to make!

Simply pour 8 to10 oz. of boiling water over 1 to 2 tsp. of Dried Calendula Petals. Steep for 5 to 7 minutes, If you are a veteran to loose leaf tea there is no need to strain or use an Infuser as the petals are edible! If you prefer to sweeten your tea, I recommend a small spoonful of Elder Flower Infused Honey!

You can make small batches or you can brew up a large batch and sip on it for the next day or two. Just store the leftover tea in your refrigerator, Herbal tea does have a fairly short shelf life, so just make sure to discard any remainder after a two days.

More Ways To Use The Tea -

• Sore throat gargle.
• Wash your face with calendula tea nightly, if prone to acne and breakouts.
• Pour into a small spray bottle to make a disinfecting wound spray.
• Pour the tea in a foot bath, for fungal conditions such as athlete’s foot.
• Calendula tea can also help regulate those pesky irregular menstrual cycles.
• Calendula tea can help soothe an upset tummy, easy digestion and can be especially helpful for gastric ulcers.
• Calendula tea helps induce sweating, so it can be helpful when you need to reduce a fever.
• Make Calendula Ice Cubes- I always have a small bag of these ready in my freezer! My kids are constantly outside, and it seems like they are always winding up with funky rashes.  Not only is the cold from the ice "soothing" the Calendula has all those amazing healing properties we just talked about - Simply grab a cube and rub it over rashes, scrapes, or other little boo-boos as needed.

 Have you ever made Calendula Tea? What is your favorite use for it?