BATH & BODY
Do you grow Calendula officinalis in your garden? Not only is it a beautiful flowering plant, but it also has a long list of beneficial properties, both in bath and body products AND in your magickal practices.
Research studies have show that calendula, often called pot marigold, shows antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties (just to name a few). It can help reduce redness and inflammation, and its fatty acids help moisturize and hydrate your skin. Calendula is also natural and gentle. I use the same calendula for tea that I use in soap making.
The bright yellow colors of the calendula flower lends itself to light work, sun magic, and spells that use fire energy. Historically, it has been used for protection, strength, good luck, dreamwork, communicating with spirits, psychic enhancement, love spells, and even money spells. Of course every witch knows that calendula will keep you beautiful forever, right?
My calendula soap starts with making a strong calendula tea to use in place of water, then I finely chop the petals to mix into my batter right before pouring. I also use very finely ground oats in this soap for a little bit of scrubbiness, and I add a couple nice butters, usually shea and mango, to really make this nice on your skin.
Other ingredients you’ll see in my soap are:
- Coconut Oil – known for its cleansing, moisturizing, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties
- Olive Oil – has a natural ability to hold in moisture, also makes a lovely lather
- Canola Oil – has essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants
- Sunflower Oil – can protect skin from the environment by providing a protective barrier
- Shea Butter – has vitamin A and E, easily absorbed, moisturizing and soothing
- Mango Butter – rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, promotes collagen, increases skin elasticity
- Castor Oil – humectant, moisturizer, antioxidant, creates creamy lather and bubbles
I’ve been making soap for 7 years now, and my calendula is still my favorite. Though I am very careful to never make medical claims of any kind, I can say I love how it makes my skin look and feel. I always keep a bar just for my face! So be sure to grab you a bar! I’m sure you’re going to love it as much as I do. See you again soon!
Disclaimer: No medical or healing claims for diagnosis, treatment, or cure are being stated or implied in this post. I am not a medical professional. The ingredients used are for their reputation and reported benefits, and item descriptions are for general informational purposes only. If you are experiencing health problems or conditions, seek medical attention from a licensed healthcare professional.