Calendula flower tea is a delightful and gentle way to enjoy the soothing properties of Calendula Officinalis. This herbal infusion is suitable for daily relaxation, skin wellness support, and a comforting moment of calm. Below is a detailed guide on how to prepare and enjoy your own calendula tea at home.
Ingredients:
1 to 2 teaspoons of dried whole Calendula flowers
1 cup (240 ml) of boiling water
Optional: honey, lemon, or your favorite natural sweetener
Instructions:
Measure the flowers: Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers per cup of tea. Adjust the amount depending on your taste preference and desired strength.
Boil fresh water: Bring fresh, filtered water to a rolling boil. Using fresh water helps retain the full flavor and beneficial compounds of the flowers.
Steep the flowers: Place the dried calendula flowers in a teapot or infuser. Pour the boiling water over the flowers and cover the container to keep the heat in.
Let it steep: Allow the flowers to steep for 10 to 15 minutes. The longer you steep, the richer and more aromatic the tea becomes. During this time, the water extracts the gentle compounds that contribute to calendula’s soothing and antioxidant qualities.
Strain the tea: Once steeped, strain out the flowers using a fine mesh strainer or remove the infuser. The tea will have a warm golden-yellow color and a mild, slightly floral aroma.
Add optional flavoring: If desired, sweeten your tea with a teaspoon of honey or add a slice of lemon to enhance the flavor and provide an extra vitamin C boost.
Enjoy warm: Sip your calendula tea slowly to fully appreciate its calming and refreshing qualities. It’s perfect for relaxing moments, before bedtime, or anytime you want to unwind and nurture your body.
Additional Tips for Using Calendula Flowers:
Cold Infusion: For a lighter, refreshing tea, you can cold-infuse calendula flowers by placing 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers in a jar with cold water. Let it steep in the refrigerator for 4-6 hours before straining and drinking.
Topical Use: Calendula tea can also be used as a gentle facial rinse or compress. Cool the brewed tea and apply it to the skin with a clean cloth to enjoy its soothing effects.
Blending: Feel free to blend calendula with other gentle herbs such as chamomile, lavender, or lemon balm to create personalized herbal blends that suit your mood and needs.
Storage and Shelf Life:
Store your dried Calendula flowers in a cool, dark, and dry place, ideally in an airtight container. Properly stored, they retain their quality and aroma for up to one year, allowing you to enjoy their benefits any time.
By incorporating calendula flower tea into your routine, you invite a moment of natural calm and gentle nourishment to your day. This simple yet elegant herbal preparation is a wonderful way to experience the timeless charm of Calendula Officinalis.