What are you extracting from calendula?

Calendula yields flavonoids, triterpenoids, glycosides, saponins, carotenoids, volatile oil, amino acids, steroids, sterols and quinones. Ligulate flowers are particularly rich in triterpene alcohols, fatty acid esters, coumarins, hydrocarbons, essential oils, and fatty acids. Specific flavonoid derivatives include quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol aglycones. Triterpenoid saponins, calendulosides A through F, are present at variable levels between 2-10%, with roots containing a higher concentration than flowers. Key lipophilic actives are faradiol, arnidiol (and their fatty-acid esters), rubixanthin/lycopene-type carotenoids and calendic acid.

Extraction targets these compounds for topical anti-inflammatory applications; bioassay indicates triterpenoids are most important, with the faradiol monoester being particularly relevant due to its abundance. Unesterified faradiol demonstrates activity equal to indomethacin, while other monools like ψ-taraxasterol and lupeol show less activity. CO₂ extracts and triterpene fractions reduce edema in models, with inhibition correlating to faradiol monoester content, suggesting it’s a useful quality control marker.

We can extract calendula using several methods. [Ethanol extraction] offers versatility; a 60-70% ethanol/30-40% water mixture suits alkaloids and glycosides, while 40-50% ethanol / 50-60% water is better for flavonoids and general use. A 25-30% ethanol / 70-75% water ratio works for saponins and mucilage. Food-grade ethanol is essential; avoid denatured alcohol. Alternatively, a [glycerin extraction] can be used, though potency will be lower and shelf life shorter (1-2 years).

Consider the target compounds when [choosing a method]. Solvent polarity dictates which molecules are extracted. After extraction, [filtering and clarifying] removes particulate matter. Proper [storing extracts] is vital for longevity; alcohol tinctures last 5+ years, while glycerites have a shorter shelf life. Always prioritize [solvent safety].

Which extraction method suits calendula, and why?

Calendula’s complex chemistry dictates careful consideration when [choosing a method]. The plant contains flavonoids, triterpenoids, and carotenoids, among other compounds. Ethanol is the most versatile solvent for capturing this range of molecules.

A tincture offers an effective approach. Calendula extracts well into alcohol percentages between 40-50% ethanol with corresponding water content of 50-60%, ideal for flavonoids and phenolics. This ratio balances extraction efficiency with preservation of delicate compounds. A 60-70% ethanol solution with 30-40% water would also work, though may yield a slightly different profile. Using food-grade ethanol is essential; denatured alcohol is unacceptable due to toxicity.

CO₂ extraction also proves valuable, specifically targeting lipophilic actives like faradiol and arnidiol, and their fatty-acid esters, as well as carotenoids. Bioassay analysis shows triterpenoids are the most important anti-inflammatory principles, with faradiol monoester being particularly relevant due to its abundance. The method’s ability to isolate these compounds is significant; edema inhibition tracked faradiol monoester content in testing.

Glycerin [glycerin extraction] isn't ideal as a primary extraction solvent. While it extracts some compounds, it does so less efficiently than ethanol and results in lower potency with a shorter shelf life (1-2 years). It’s best reserved for specific applications where alcohol is undesirable.

Water [water extraction and decoction] will extract polar molecules but misses many of calendula's key constituents. Oil infusions [oil infusion] are possible, though they don’t offer the same level of standardization or potency as a carefully prepared ethanol or CO₂ extract. Proper solvent evaporation [evaporating solvent] and clarification [filtering and clarifying] are vital for final product quality.

What solvent and ratio should you use for calendula?

Calendula extractions benefit from careful solvent selection to capture its bioactive compounds. The plant contains flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins, specifically calendulosides A-F, which guide the [choosing a method] based on polarity.

A 40-50% ethanol solution with 50-60% water is suitable for general-purpose extraction of calendula, targeting its flavonoids and phenolics. This ratio balances effective compound capture with practical considerations. Use food-grade ethanol only; denatured alcohol is unsafe. Everclear or organic grape alcohol can be diluted with distilled water to reach this percentage.

Alternatively, a 60-70% ethanol solution with 30-40% water also works well for alkaloids and glycosides present in calendula. This may be preferable if prioritizing those compounds. The table shows these percentages are standard for herbs like chamomile and passionflower.

Tinctures made this way require storage according to best practices [storing extracts] for a shelf life of five or more years. Glycerin extraction [glycerin extraction] is possible, using 60% glycerin / 40% water, but results in lower potency and a shorter (1-2 year) shelf life. It’s not a direct substitute.

CO₂ extraction concentrates triterpenoids, the most important anti-inflammatory principles, and the faradiol monoester is best for quality control. Bioassay shows these compounds reduce edema when present, so this method yields desirable results.

Avoid vinegar or oil infusions as primary extraction methods; they target different compound classes and are not general replacements. Proper [filtering and clarifying] will remove particulate matter after extraction.

How do you make a calendula extract step by step?

Calendula extracts begin with properly prepared plant material. Thoroughly drying herbs is essential before extraction begins. Calendula flowers are rich in triterpene alcohols and flavonoids; the chosen solvent will influence which compounds predominate.

For a traditional alcohol tincture, follow these steps. First, select your ethanol percentage based on target compounds. For calendula’s general-purpose use, a 40-50% ethanol solution is suitable. Use food-grade ethanol only for solvent safety. If starting with 190 proof (95%) ethanol, dilute with distilled water to reach the target percentage. A ratio of 60-70% ethanol and 30-40% water will extract alkaloids, glycosides, and bitters effectively.

Combine dried calendula flowers with the chosen solvent in a clean glass jar. A common plant to solvent ratio is 1:5, but this may vary based on desired potency. Ensure all plant material is fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for several weeks, shaking daily. This process allows the alcohol to dissolve the active compounds.

After sufficient maceration time, filtering and clarifying the liquid from the plant matter is necessary. Use cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer, followed by coffee filters if greater clarity is desired.

Alternatively, a glycerin extraction can be performed using a 60% glycerin / 40% water solution. This method yields a milder extract suitable for sensitive applications, but potency will be lower and shelf life shorter.

Finally, consider CO2 extraction to isolate triterpenoids as the most important topical anti-inflammatory principles. Bioassay-guided fractionation identifies these compounds. The faradiol monoester is particularly relevant due to its abundance. Proper storing extracts in airtight, dark glass bottles will preserve potency and extend shelf life. For more information on extraction methods, see choosing a method.

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Who should be careful with calendula?

Calendula is generally well-tolerated, but certain individuals should exercise caution. Those with allergies within the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family, which includes ragweed, marigolds, daisies, and chrysanthemums, may experience cross-reactivity.

The active compounds in calendula include flavonoids like quercetin, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol derivatives; triterpenoid saponins (calendulosides A-F) present at variable levels between 2-10% depending on harvest time; and key lipophilic actives such as faradiol and arnidiol. These compounds contribute to calendula’s properties, but also dictate extraction choices. For maximum capture of these constituents, an ethanol tincture using 40-50% ethanol and 50-60% water is suitable for flavonoid and phenolic extraction. A 60-70% ethanol / 30-40% water mix targets alkaloids and glycosides, though calendula does not heavily feature these.

Individuals on blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare professional before using calendula due to potential interactions. While research indicates triterpenoids are important anti-inflammatory principles, with faradiol monoester being particularly relevant, the impact on coagulation is not fully understood.

Those with known sensitivities to any component of calendula, or those undergoing significant medical treatment, should perform a patch test before widespread use. Extraction method matters; glycerin extraction yields a different product than an alcohol-based extract and may have reduced potency. Remember that shelf life varies: alcohol tinctures can last 5+ years with proper storing extracts, while glycerites are best used within 1-2 years. Always use food-grade ethanol, avoiding denatured alcohols due to toxic additives and prioritizing safety through solvent safety. The roots contain higher concentrations of triterpenoid saponins than the flowers.

Before any solvent work: use glass or stainless steel rated for the solvent, work outdoors or beside a fan pulling the vapor away from you, heat ethanol only on an electric or induction hot plate (never an open flame or a gas burner), and do not breathe solvent vapor. This guide is education, not medical advice: check with a doctor before using any herbal extract alongside medication, during pregnancy or for a child.

How do you store a calendula extract, and how long does it keep?

Calendula extracts require careful storage to maintain potency and prevent degradation. The ideal conditions depend on the solvent used during creation; understanding this is key for longevity. [Storing extracts] properly protects your work.

Alcohol-based tinctures, created using an [ethanol tincture], benefit from protection against light, heat, and air. Use dark glass bottles and store in a cool, dark place. Properly stored alcohol extracts can last five or more years. Ethanol percentages of 25-30%, 40-50%, 60-70% or 90-95% all follow the same storage guidelines.

Glycerin extractions, created via [glycerin extraction], are susceptible to microbial growth and oxidation. These should also be stored in dark glass bottles, but refrigeration is recommended. A glycerite typically has a shelf life of one to two years.

Oil infusions, made through [oil infusion], oxidize over time. Store these in a cool, dark place, away from heat and light. Refrigeration can extend the shelf life, though it may cause clouding.

Water extractions require special attention due to their high water content. These are prone to mold and bacterial growth. Refrigeration is essential, and the addition of an alcohol preservative (like ethanol) may be necessary for longer-term storage. Water extracts have a limited shelf life, generally less than six months without preservation.

Regardless of extraction method, ensure containers are tightly sealed to minimize air exposure. Always label your extract with the date of production and ingredients. Proper [drying herbs] before extraction is also crucial; moisture content impacts stability. Consider [filtering and clarifying extracts] to remove particulate matter which can accelerate degradation. Remember that these guidelines assume proper solvent selection and technique during initial creation, as detailed in [choosing a method].

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Which guides go with this one?

How to Filter and Clarify an Extract: Carbon, Bentonite and Silica

Which guides go with this one?. Drying herbs; Solvent safety; Filtering and clarifying; Glycerin extraction; Co2 extraction; Storing extracts.
Figure 1. Which guides go with this one?, from the Which guides go with this one? section of this guide. The first 6 of 8 are shown; the full list is in the text.

From coarse straining to fine filters, and how activated carbon, bentonite clay and silica clean up an extract.

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  2. acne, RESULTS: In the mask-covered area, the percent reduction in inflammatory acne lesions from the treatment group was significantly greater than t
  3. wound healing, A significant improvement in wound healing was observed in both groups throughout the follow-up period (p < 0.001). (
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  6. Spray skin protectant versus standard moisturiser in the prevention of radiodermatitis in patients with anal canal and rectal cancer: A randomised cli (2024)
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  9. TRADITIONAL Eclectic / European herbal medicine - Slightly stimulant and diaphoretic. Used for similar purposes with saffron, but less activ
  10. TRADITIONAL Documented medicinal use - Antiphlogistic Antiseptic Antispasmodic Aperient Astringent Cholagogue Diaphoretic Emmenagogue Homeop
  11. TRUSTED general - Preparation: Tincture ( 1:5 in 60%): Take 1-4 ml in a little water twice a day. Infusion: To make an infusion, pour 1 cup
  12. MSK About Herbs ,