Castor oil is a multi-purpose vegetable oil that has been used for thousands of years. It’s made by extracting oil from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. In ancient Egypt, castor oil was used as a natural remedy for skin ailments and today it is very popular with natural beauty products. Castor oil is packed with nutritionally beneficial ingredients. With ricinoleic acid (a monounsaturated fatty acid), omega-6, 9 additional fatty acids, vitamin E, and minerals castor oil is really healthy for hair and skin.
Benefits to Skin
The natural fats in castor oil act as humectants and can be used to moisturize the skin. Humectants retain moisture by preventing water loss through the outer layer of the skin.
Castor oil promotes hydration so it’s no surprise that it’s often used in natural lotions, makeup, and cleansers. Castor oil also has been to know to reduce inflammation-related symptoms associated with acne. Castor oil has antimicrobial properties that may also help fight bacterial overgrowth when applied to the skin.
Castor oil is thick and it has a strong scent so it’s frequently mixed with other skin-friendly oils like almond, olive, and coconut oil to make an ultra-hydrating moisturizer.
A word of caution: Castor oil is generally considered safe for use on your skin but it can cause an allergic reaction to some so it’s important to test on the skin prior to consistent use. Choose a small area on your skin and/or scalp and apply castor oil. Wait about 12 hours and check to see if you have had any skin irritation, if not, proceed.
Benefits to Hair
Many people use castor oil as a natural hair conditioner. Dry or damaged hair can especially benefit from an it’s intense moisturizing properties.
Benefits of Castor Oil Include:
- Controls Hairfall
- Encourages Hair Growth
- Minimizes Dandruff
- Reduces Split Ends
- Thickens Hair
- Naturally Conditions Hair
- Darkens Hair
- Increases Shine
- Protects Hair from Damage
Organic/Cold Pressed Castor Oil
Extracted directly from the castor seed with no heat involved; a process called expeller pressing
The cold pressing ensures there is no degradation of any of the nutrients present in the seed
It is pale yellow in color
If you have curly hair and an itchy or dry scalp that is prone to irritation, unrefined castor oil would be your best option.
Castor oil is an amazing ingredient to treat hair loss and to boost hair growth but, its texture and strong smell might not appeal to some. In this case, you can combine castor oil with other beneficial oils to create a hair oil solution that is optimal for your need. An example is when you combine Organic Castor Oil with Organic Jojoba Oil you will help to get results faster. Jojoba oil is more alkaline and it helps to clarify and open cuticles so the Castor Oil can penetrate into hair faster. It will also modify the scent.
FAQ’S
How is castor oil made?
Castor oil is derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. Crushing the seeds is followed by pressing or solvent extraction to produce the oil. It is subsequently processed to remove impurities, yielding a versatile and valuable oil with a wide range of industrial and therapeutic applications.
What is castor oil good for?
Castor oil is useful and versatile. When used as a laxative, it promotes hair growth, treats dry skin, and relieves constipation. It also has antibacterial qualities, making it useful in the treatment of acne. The natural therapeutic properties of castor oil also assist to reduce inflammation and relieve a variety of skin ailments. Its uses range from beauty to health, making it an invaluable natural cure.
What are the beauty benefits of castor oil?
Castor oil has numerous beauty benefits. Because of its rich, moisturising characteristics, it is an excellent natural cure for dry skin and hair. It encourages hair development, strengthens lashes and brows, and combats dandruff. Castor oil can also be used to treat acne, remove scars, and moisturise the lips. Castor oil is a flexible and economical addition to your cosmetic routine because of its multiple benefits.
How does castor oil work for scars and stretch marks?
Castor oil includes fatty acids and antioxidants that permeate the skin, supporting skin healing and collagen synthesis. It can moisturise, soften, and eventually reduce the look of scars and stretch marks when applied to them. Consistent use can result in smoother, more even-toned skin.
Benefits of drinking castor oil with hot water?
Castor oil mixed with hot water is a natural therapy that might improve intestinal health. It relieves constipation by lubricating the bowels and can help with detoxification. This combination may help with nutrient absorption, metabolism, and occasional stomach pain. Remember to use it sparingly and to seek personalised guidance from a healthcare expert.