Making Calendula Infused Body Oil for Summer

I've been lucky enough to have an abundance of calendula blooming in the garden this spring. Their golden flowers have become one of my favorite sights each morning and naturally led me down a path of learning more about the plant and its many traditional uses.

Calendula has long been cherished in herbal traditions for its soothing, skin-loving properties. For centuries, it has been infused into oils, salves, and balms to help nourish dry or irritated skin. As the days grow warmer and Southern California settles into its long, dry summer season, I found myself looking for simple ways to care for my skin using what was already growing just outside my door.

The result was a calendula-infused body oil—an easy seasonal ritual that feels both practical and deeply connected to the garden.

Why Calendula?

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is often called "pot marigold," though it isn't actually a marigold at all. Its bright orange and yellow petals contain compounds that herbalists have traditionally used to soothe and support the skin. While I love calendula in teas and garden borders, I've always been drawn to its topical benefits.

An infused oil captures some of the plant's beneficial properties while creating a nourishing base for everyday skincare.

From Garden to Bottle

After harvesting enough blooms to fill a large mason jar over the course of a few months, I dried the calendula petals thoroughly and placed them into a clean glass jar, covering them completely with oil. I chose a combination of olive oil and organic jojoba oil, which creates a nourishing yet lightweight blend that absorbs beautifully into the skin.

The jar was then left to infuse slowly on my windowsill, allowing the petals to release their color and properties into the oil over several weeks. As the days passed, the oil transformed into a rich golden hue—the very color of summer sunshine.

A Simple Summer Ritual

Once strained, the finished oil became part of my evening routine. After a shower, while my skin is still slightly damp, I massage a small amount onto my arms, legs, and shoulders. Sometimes I add a little dried sage and lavender from the garden for a subtle herbal fragrance.

The result is hydration without heaviness—a welcome remedy for the dry California air and long days spent outdoors in the garden.

More than anything, this calendula oil serves as a reminder to pay attention to the seasons. A handful of flowers grown from seed became a simple luxury—one that connects daily care with the rhythms of the garden.

Sometimes the most meaningful things we make are also the simplest.