Homemade Calendula Ointment

Here is a simple, traditional way to prepare calendula ointment at home:Fresh or dried calendula flowers are collected. The flowers are then left to dry slightly if they are fresh, to remove excess moisture. The dried flowers are gently heated in a natural fat, traditionally lard, but vegetable oil can also be used. The mixture is kept on very low heat for some time, allowing the active substances from the flowers to infuse into the fat. After heating, the mixture is left to rest for several hours or overnight. It is then reheated slightly and strained to remove the plant material. Finally, beeswax is added to the warm infused oil to thicken it into an ointment. The mixture is poured into clean containers and left to cool and solidify. The ointment is then ready to be used for soothing and healing the skin.