Herb in Focus: 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐚, a Golden Ally for Winter Skin

As winter settles in and the air grows cold and harsh, our skin can feel the effects. Wind lashed, dry, dull and in need of nourishment. Herbs can provide us support in this difficult transition, both internally and externally. From deep broths, teas and bath soaks, to ointments, oils and balms. 

This is the first part of a running series 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒃 𝒊𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒄𝒖𝒔, where I explore the uses and benefits of the herbs used in Lazuli remedies. Today we dive into 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐚, also known as pot marigold - a forever favourite, wonderful skin ally.

Calendula's bright orange flower heads open and close with the sun, absorbing its energy and light. In energetic terms, solar herbs are warming, uplifting, protecting and restorative. When applied to the skin, Calendula brings a sense of brightness that reflects its long-held connection to the sun, providing radiance and nourishment as winter wraps us in her cold embrace.  

Regarded as one of the best skin herbs, Calendula contains an array of medicinal compounds - triterpenes, flavonoids, glycosides, volatile oils and resins to name a few. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory resins are mainly found in the green bracts and the base of the flowers. 

This past hot and dry summer yielded baskets and baskets of the orange beauties - harvested at prime potency and dried on a very low heat to preserve their colour and medicine. Infused in organic, cold-pressed apricot oil - through heat and over time - to allow the carotenoids and other constituents to impart into the infusion. The result is a beautifully rich and golden oil, a powerhouse ingredient for inflammation, dryness and cracked skin; all the usual symptoms of a cold, harsh winter. 

You can find her in the Garden Flower Balm, Garden Flower Serum, Garden Flower Goats Milk Soap and the Blooms & Roots Salve - a curation of anti-inflammatory, nourishing products to provide support during the cooler months.