Calendula Soap

DISCLAIMER! If you have never made soap before please learn how to make basic batches before dealing with an 8 pound batch such as this. I am not an expert, I am just a simple soap maker. Safety is up to you!

These calendula petals are widely used and appreciated. The calendula flower is a type of marigold and it's name means, "little calendar". The flowers are beautiful when growing in a field but they are incredibly beneficial after they are harvested. The plants are ingested for health benefits but I will not discuss that here as I am not going to recommend you go out and add calendula flowers to your diet. That will be up to you. What I will say is that used on the skin,in the form of lotions and soaps, the calendula flower has been known to fight acne and reduce inflammation. It is said to have wonderful soothing properties.

***Please Note*** The calendula flower should be avoided by pregnant woman.

                                            

                            Calendula Soap Recipe

1 lb. 3 oz. lye
3 lb. water
4 lb. 8oz. olive oil
2 lb. coconut oil
1 lb. 8 oz. palm oil
8 tbs. Castor oil
1/2 cup dried calendula petals

Add the dried calendula petals to 8 oz. of olive oil. Infuse for 2 to 4 hours. Strain the oil through several layers of cheesecloth and add to your other oils. 

Mix lye and water. SAFETY FIRST!

Bring both lye and oils to 120 degrees and combine.

Bring to a medium trace and pour into molds. I left this batch uncolored and and unscented as the calendula petals add to the simplicity of this soap.

Cover the mold with plastic and wrap in a towel to insulate. Do not touch for 24 hours.

Cut into desired bars and place on wire racks for 4 to 6 weeks to cure. 

Enjoy!