calendula ointment

3 tablespoons fresh calendula petals

1/3 cup light olive oil

2 tablespoons chopped beeswax

1 capsule vitamin E, 400 IU

Put the calendula petals in a double boiler and crush slightly with the back of a spoon. Add the olive oil and simmer for two hours over low heat.

Strain the liquid into a bowl, pressing against the strainer with the back of a spoon to extract all the oils.

Return the liquid to the double boiler. Over medium heat, add the chopped beeswax and stir until it melts. Remove from the double boiler and beat the mixture until it cools and becomes creamy and thick. Pierce the vitamin E capsule with a needle, squeeze in the contents, and mix.

Spoon into a sterilizer 135-ml jar with a tight top, seal, and keep in a cool, dark place for up to two weeks.