30 Outstanding Castor Oil Uses and Benefits | One Agora Health (2024)

30 Outstanding Castor Oil Uses and Benefits

For centuries, health care providers and folk healers have been using castoroil because of the many benefits it provides. Many think that the ancientEgyptians were the first to discover the manycastor oil usesandcastor oil benefits.

In fact, many believe that Cleopatra used the pale yellow liquid to brightenthe whites of her eyes. Castor oil is simple to use and isn't harsh onyour skin, making it an excellent remedy for many different ailments.

Castor oil is considered a vegetable oil that is pale yellow in color and isproduced by crushing the seeds of the castor oil plant. Many of the benefitsgained by using castor oil are a result of its chemical composition. Castoroil is a particular type of triglyceride fatty acid, with nearly 90 percent ofits fatty acid substance is ricinoleic acid, which is an unsaturated omega-9fatty acid.

Castor Oil Uses

• Skin Conditions
• Infections
• Constipation Relief
• Immune System Support
• Anti-Inflammatory Agent
• Antimicrobial Agent
• Lymphatic Stimulant

Castor oil has traditionally been used as a remedy for treating various skinconditions and infections, relieving constipation, and increasing the healthof hair. However, recent studies have shown that castor oil can be used tosupport the immune system, and an anti-inflammatory agent, antimicrobialagent, and lymphatic stimulant.

You can use castor oil in a couple of different ways. Apply it directly to theskin, use it through a castor oil pack, or mix it with other oils to use it asa topical remedy. Orally, add it to milk or lukewarm water or taken in theform of a supplement.

Topical Uses for Castor Oil

• Arthritis Treatment
• To Strengthen and Grow Hair
• Acne Treatment
• Skin Moisturizer
• Deep Cleanser
• To Improve Immunity Function
• To Eliminate Fine Lines and Wrinkles
• Reduce Swelling and Inflammation
• Support Lymphatic System
• Increase Circulation
• Heal Wounds and Abrasions
• Relieve Menstrual Cramps

Oral Uses for Castor Oil

• Relieve Constipation
• Clean Out Intestines Before Surgery
• Induction of Labor

1. Natural Arthritis Remedy

Castor oil's anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent massage oilfor arthritic joints, sore muscles, and inflammation of your nerves. Thericinoleic acid that castor oil contains possess the ability to boostanti-inflammatory properties within the body and is considered a safe remedyfor arthritis pain. Here are the various ways you can use castor oil to treatarthritis pain.

Directions

• Take a piece of unbleached cotton flannel fabric and fold it to create threeto four layers. Soak it in castor oil and place it over the affected joints.Wrap the cloth with saran wrap and put a heating pad or hot water bottleover the area. Leave it for at least 45 minutes. Do this once a day to helpreduce pain and inflammation in your joints.
  • The saran wrap will prevent the heating pad or water bottle from gettingoily.
  • Reuse the pads by placing them in a Ziploc bag in the refrigerator untilyou're ready to use them again.
• Take it orally by adding a tablespoon of castor oil to your favoritebeverage.
• Massage warm castor oil into the affected joints. To promote properabsorption, massage into the skin before you go to bed and leave it onovernight.
  • To avoid scalding the skin, make sure the castor oil is not too hot whenapplying to the affected area.
• When treating severe arthritis pain, add a pinch of ginger powder to aboiling glass of water. Once the water has cooled, add two tablespoons ofcastor oil. Be sure to mix the concoction well before drinking.
  • This remedy works best when you drink it when you first wake up or rightbefore you go to bed.
• If you dislike the taste of castor oil, take a castor oil supplement orpill. However, this won't be as useful as pure castor oil.

2. Getting Rid of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are often caused by pregnancy and rapid weight gain, but canalso be a result of aging, hormonal imbalance, sudden weight loss, andswelling. Castor oil is known as one of the best treatments for a variety ofskin conditions. Its rich contents and various fatty acids make it anexcellent moisturizer and effective treatment for getting rid of unsightlystretch marks.

• Using your fingers, massage enough castor oil over the stretch marks tocover the entire affected area.
  • For added moisture, mix two tablespoons of coconut or almond oil withone tablespoon of castor oil.
  • Avoid applying the treatment to the broken skin.
• Use a thin cotton cloth to cover the area.
• Leave the cloth on the area for about 15-20 minutes to help ensure the oilpenetrates deeply.
  • Covering the area with a heating pad or hot water bottle will speed upthe results.
• Repeat this process on a regular basis to see a significant reduction in theappearance of your stretch marks.

3. Castor Oil For Treating Acne

The common skin condition, acne, is a result of impurities accumulating inyour pores, causing the skin to become irritated and inflamed. Many of theacne remedies on the market today contain benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid,which tend to dry out the skin. Castor oil, similar tousing neem oil, is a natural resource that will draw out dirt, dead skin cells, excessoils, and bacteria without drying out your skin.

Directions

• Place a bowl of boiling water on a stable surface and grab a towel.
• Holding the towel over your head, lean over the bowl of water.
  • Doing this opens up your pores, which allows the castor oil to penetrateyour skin deeply.
• Keep your face over the bowl for several minutes.
• Take a washcloth and moisten it with warm water, and apply a small,dime-sized amount of castor oil to the cloth.
• Gently rub the affected area with the washcloth.
• Use small circular motions when applying the castor oil to the area.
• Leave the castor oil on your skin overnight.
• When you wake up, remove the castor oil using a damp towel to wipe away theoil.
• Using cold water, splash your face several times.
• Cold water will shrink your pores, while warm water will open up your pores.
• Pat your skin dry and use a facial cleanser to clean away the remainingcastor oil.

For the best results, repeat these steps on a daily basis for between 10 and14 days. You can use castor oil to prevent acne by following this process acouple of times a week.

4. Deep Facial Cleanser

Along with treating acne, you can use castor oil as a deep facial cleanser.Unlike the harsh chemicals in over-the-counter and prescription facialcleansers that dry out your skin, using castor oil as a deep cleanser will getrid ofpimplesfast, deep-clean your skin of dirt, bacteria, dead skin cells, and excess oilswhile keeping your skin soft, supple, and flawless.

Directions

• Using a generous amount of the oil blend in the palm of your hand, rub themtogether to warm up the oil.
• Using slow, firm motions across your skin, massage the oil into your face,paying particular attention to any areas that may be a problem.
• When your pores are thoroughly saturated, take a clean washcloth and soak itin hot water.
• Place the washcloth over your face. Leave it on until it has become cool tothe touch.
• Gently wipe your face with the washcloth, and then rinse it in hot, runningwater.
• Repeat these steps several times to thoroughly clean your face.
• Be sure to not scrub your face hard during the final step of the process.

5. Eliminating Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Castor oil is great for reducing fine lines and wrinkles because it penetratesdeep into your skin, which stimulates the production of elastin and collagen.These two components in the skin are responsible for its elasticity andtautness. Castor oil's emollient properties allow the skin to quicklyabsorb it, keeping your face hydrated and plump, which is also important inreducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. To ensure you get the mostout of the castor oil treatment follow these steps.

Directions

• Clean your face with your regular facial cleanser and cold water.
• Using a towel, pat your skin dry.
• Remove any traces of the cleaner with a cotton ball soaked in toner.
  • If you don't have toner, you can use rose water orwitch hazel.
• Allow the toner to dry, then pour a small amount of castor oil into the palmof your hand, rubbing hands together to warm up the oil.
• Gently massage the oil into your face using small, circular motions.
• Repeat the process every day.
  • For maximum benefits, apply the oil to your face at night, before goingto bed.

6. Castor Oil For Hair Growths

Castor oil, and more specifically, Jamaican Black Castor oil, has become apopular treatment for growing healthier, thicker hair. When regularly used onyour roots, it can increase hair growth, reduce hair damage from products andstyling, hydrate hair, make hair shinier and fuller, prevent dry scalp, andimprove the overall health of your hair. When you apply it to the ends of yourhair, the castor oil can help reduce frizz and repair split ends. Follow thesteps below to help strengthen and grow your hair.

Directions

• Apply castor oil to your scalp and roots using your fingertips.
  • Make sure to distribute it on your scalp evenly.
  • Try to avoid getting the oil into the strands of your hair. Due to itsthickness, it can be difficult to remove.
• Cover your hair with a plastic shower cap and wrap your head with a towel.
• Allow the oil to remain on your hair for at least fifteen minutes.
  • For best results, leave in overnight.
• To remove the castor oil, wash your hair thoroughly with shampoo.
• For the best results, repeat the process every week for 6 – 8 weeks.

7. Relieving Constipation

Castor oil is a popular way to relieve constipation. The various components inthe natural constipation remedy act as a powerful laxative, stimulating boththe small and large intestines and purging the colon walls, allowing impactedfecal matter to move through the colon. The fatty acids in the castor oil alsowork to prevent liquid from being absorbed by the intestinal tract, helpingthe bowel to retain its moisture, which allows it to pass through the coloneasier. (See additional info about Castor oil for constipation)

Follow the steps below to use castor oil to relieve constipation.

Castor Oil Constipation Relief Recipe

• Castor Oil (30 to 60 Grams)
• Lukewarm Milk (or Water)
• A Glass
• Ginger (Optional)

Directions

• Add between 30 and 60 grams of castor oil to a glass of lukewarm milk.
• Substitute a glass of lukewarm water if you don't like milk.
• Drink the entire glass.
• Add some ginger to the concoction if you find the smell too strong.
• In about an hour, you will begin to feel the effects of the castor oil.

8. Improving Immune Function

Using castor oil regularly is believed to improve various immune systemfunctions, including lymphatic drainage, thymus gland health, and blood flow.The lymphocytes, which is a type of white blood cell found in the body'simmune system, attack perceived threats to the body and outside invaders likebacteria and toxins. The use of castor oil helps the body produce the properlevels of lymphocytes, which are stored and released into the lymphatic tissuefrom the lymph nodes, thymus gland, and tissue from the small intestine. Applycastor oil packs to your abdominal area to increase the body's absorptionof the oil.

9. Treating Ringworm

A relatively common skin condition, ringworm is caused by a fungus and growsinto a ring-shaped, red rash. Studies show that nearly 20 percent of thepopulation has suffered from ringworm at least once in their life. While itcan be a pain to deal with, castor oil is an excellent treatment for ringworm.The undecylenic acid found in the castor oil acts as an antifungal agent thatkills the infection.

10. Minimize Appearance of Scars

Castor oil is great for reducing and preventing the appearance of scars. Themany fatty acids found in the oil help stimulate the lymphatic system in thebody, which is essential for preventing scars. While it can't eliminatescars that you already have, it can reduce their appearance.

11. Heal Dry, Cracked Heels

Castor oil's miraculous ability to hydrate the skin makes it a perfectremedy for treating cracked heels. It is rich in vitamins, and essentialnutrients help to hydrate dry, cracked skin. Simply rub castor oil on yourfeet, put on a pair of socks, and leave on overnight. You'll notice adramatic difference.

12. Induce Labor

Castor oil helps induce labor. When taken orally, castor oil works tostimulate the bowels. Castor oil tends to irritate the uterus, which causescontractions to begin. (See additional information)

13. Relieve Sunburn

With the same cooling sensation as aloe, castor oil is great for alleviatingpainful sunburns. The ricinoleic acid will protect any blisters that pop upfrom becoming infected and reduce the inflammation associated with sunburns.

14. Castor Oil For Thicker Eyebrows

Castor oil has been proven to be an effective way to grow and strengthen yourhair. But did you know that it can also work to thicken your eyebrows? Theantioxidants, proteins, vitamins, fatty acids and nutrients it contains allwork to nurture the hair follicles and fight against bacteria that may be afactor that hinders growth.

15. Lengthen Eyelashes With Castor Oil

The vitamin E, proteins, minerals, and antibacterial properties of castor oilcan help strengthen and lengthen your eyelashes when applied on a regularbasis. It penetrates deep into the skin when applied to the area, moisturizingand refreshing the area to help the eyelashes grow quicker and prevent themfrom breaking.

16. Remove Moles and Skin Tags

When mixed with a littlebaking soda, castor oil can be an excellent way to get rid of unsightly moles andskin tags. You simply have to apply the paste to the affected area and cover it with abandage. Doing this daily for four to six weeks will eliminate the moles andskin tags.

17. Soften Cuticles and Eliminates Brittle Nails

Castor oil has a high concentration of vitamin E, which works wonders forbrittle, dry nails. Massaging it into your nails and cuticles every eveningwill result in soft cuticles and healthy looking nails.

Fern Invigoration Recipe

• Warm Water (4 Cups)
• Castor Oil (1 Tbsp)
• Baby Shampoo (1 Small Drop)

18. Perk Up Your Ferns

Castor oil has many uses, but did you know that you can use it to liven upyour ferns? The high amount of minerals and vitamins will do wonders if yourferns look unhealthy. Combine warm water, castor oil, baby shampoo, and addseveral drops of the mixture to the soil. Follow up with regular watering, andwithin a couple of days, your ferns will be perky once again.

19. Repel Moles in Your Yard

If you have trouble with moles trashing your yard, castor oil could be justwhat you need to send them on their way. Mix two gallons of water and a half acup of castor oil and pour it down the mole holes. The solution won't killthe moles, only make it unpleasant enough that they will find another place todig.

Castor Oil Benefits

Castor oil is widely known to be an excellent natural remedy for constipation,but can also be used to benefit your hair, skin, and face. Scientists anddoctors believe that the high concentrations of unsaturated fatty acids thatare present in Castor oil are the reason for its incredible health benefits.Below are some of the most common benefits of using castor oil.

20. Support the lymphatic System

Your lymphatic system is responsible for expelling metabolic waste from yourbody. When you have drainage problems or flow disruptions, castor oil can helpto get things moving again. Applying castor oil packs to your lymph nodesallows your body to absorb the oil quickly.

21. Reduces Skin Inflammation

Castor oil has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that helpto heal bug bites, rashes, and itches. To relieve skin inflammation within asmall area on the skin, simply soak a bandage with castor oil and apply it tothe affected area. For larger areas, soak a cotton ball in castor oil andapply it to the affected area. Rinse it off after an hour, repeating severaltimes throughout the day.

22. Fights Toenail Fungus

The undecylenic acid found in castor oil is an active ingredient that is greatfor relieving fungus in the body. To treattoenail fungus, soak your feet in warm water andEpsom saltfor five minutes. Follow the soak by liberally applying castor oil to theaffected toenail.

Castor Oil Chapstick Recipe

• Castor Oil (1 tsp)
• Glycerin (1 tsp)
• Lemon Juice (Several Drops)

23. Hydrates Chapped Lips

The fatty acids found in castor oil help to hydrate and moisten dry, chappedlips. Apply castor oil to your lips several times a day to hydrate andmoisturize. You can also create a soothing topical treatment by mixing castoroil, glycerin, and lemon juice. Apply before bed to hydrate chapped lips.

24. Relieves symptoms of migraines

A natural pain reliever, castor oil is great for relieving headaches andmigraines. To help relieve symptoms of migraines and headaches, rub a teaspoonof the oil into your forehead for about a minute. You should start feeling theeffects within two to three minutes.

25. Reduces menstrual cramps

Massaging warm castor oil over your abdomen can be an excellent way to relievethe symptoms of menstrual cramps and period pain. The ricinoleic acid incastor oil works as an anti-inflammatory and is an analgesic agent which helpsrelieve pain. Castor oil packs are perfect for relieving menstrual cramps.

26. Soothe Mouth Sores

The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil make it theperfect natural remedy for treating mouth sores. To address sores in yourmouth, apply a small amount of castor oil orpeppermint oilto the area. After several minutes, rinse your mouth out with water and repeatseveral times throughout the day.

27. Soothe Muscle Aches and Pains

When rubbed directly onto the skin, the ricinoleic acid is better able topenetrate deeper, helping to relieve inflammation in the tissues. To gainrelief from sore and painful muscles, place a castor oil pack on the affectedarea and cover with a heating pad or hot water bottle. The heat helps deliverthe castor oil to the inflamed joints and tissue.

28. Relieve Insomnia

If you suffer from insomnia, castor oil can help you fall asleep. Instead oftaking harmful (and sometimes habit-forming) medication to help your insomnia,rub castor oil along your eyelids before going to bed. Your body absorbs theoil and promotes healthy circulation, helping you to become more relaxed,inducinghelp you sleep.

29. Eliminate Corns

Corns on your feet can be painful and irritating. The hydrating abilities ofcastor oil can help to remove them. To treat corns, soak your feet in warmwater for about fifteen minutes. Dry your feet and apply castor oil to thecorn. After about ten days of treatment, you should be able to peel the cornsaway easily.

30. Anti-Fungal Properties

Castor oil contains the biochemical agent undecylenic acid, which is used tostop fungal growth. The undecylenic acid makes the natural remedy ideal fornumerous types of fungal infections including yeast infections, athlete'sfoot, and ringworm. Mix with coconut oil and apply it to the affected area andleft on overnight until the fungus heals.

Regular Castor Oil vs. Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Users believe Jamaican black castor oil to be one of the mostpotent mixtures you can get. The increased potency that the Jamaican castoroil offers is as a result of how they process it. Unlike regular castor oil,Jamaican black castor oil is produced by roasting andgrinding the organic seeds manually, before being boiled to extract 100% puredark oil.

Cooking the beans for an extended amount of time results in an increasedproduction of ash content. When castor oil contains a high concentration ofash, it is believed to be more efficient because the ash increases the potencyof the oil. The darker the oil appears; the more ash it contains.

How is Castor Oil Made?

Castor oil comes from pressing the seeds of the Ricinus Communis (castor oil)plant. The plant is highly toxic and contains protein and alkaloid ricin. Tomake castor oil, take the beans from the castor oil plant and roast them.Next, press the beans to release the oil.

Please be advised that due to its high toxicity, making castor oil at home isnot recommended.

What are the Side Effects of Castor Oil?

Castor oil is a natural remedy and has been deemed safe to use in limitedamounts. However, you may still experience some mild to moderate symptoms ifyou take too much of it or consume it for an extended period.

Before applying a significant amount of castor oil to your skin or ingestingit, determine if you are allergic to it by conducting a patch test. Place asmall amount of castor oil on your forearm and let it sit for 24 hours. If youhave any reaction, even if it is slight redness or itching, avoid using castoroil for any reason.

When taking castor oil, it is important to exercisecaution. If you take too much castor oil, it could result inan overdose or poisoning, which could lead to more serious healthcomplications.

When Used Orally

• Dizziness
• Abdominal Cramps
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Electrolyte disturbance
• Low blood pressure
• Pelvic congestion

When Used Topically

• Itchiness
• Skin inflammation
• Uncomfortable Rash
• Stinging sensation
• Swelling of the face and throat
• Difficulty breathing

Additional Castor Oil Recipes

Oil Cleansing Method Recipes

Use castor oil to care for your skin. Whether you have oily, combination, ordry skin, castor oil is a useful treatment.

Castor Oil for Oily Skin Recipe

• Castor Oil (3 Tbsp)
• Sunflower or Extra Virgin Olive Oil (7Tbsp)

Oily Skin

Oily skin can be a problem for a couple of reasons.

The first problem is that oily skin can give your face a shiny appearance,which others may view as unattractive. Additionally, your face will be oily tothe touch.

The second problem is that the oil on your face can clog your pores. When yourpores are clogged, you start forming acne, which gives your skin anunattractive appearance at best and causes permanent scarring at worst.

Castor Oil for Combination Skin Recipe

• Castor Oil (2 Tbsp)
• Sunflower or Extra Virgin Olive Oil (8Tbsp)

Combination Skin

When you have combination skin, it means your face is dry in some areas andoily in other areas.

Many people have combination skin. You may have heard of the T-zone (so namedbecause the area looks like a ‘T'), which is the central part of theface consisting of the eyes, nose, and mouth. The T-zone is where the skintends to be oily; the cheeks and area under the eyes might be dry or evenflaky.

The recipe to treat combination skin resembles the recipe for oily skin,though you're using less castor oil and more sunflower (or extra virginolive) oil.

Dry Skin

Castor Oil for Dry Skin Recipe

• Castor Oil (1 Tbsp)
• Sunflower or Extra Virgin Olive Oil (9Tbsp)

Scaling, itchiness, and cracking characterize dry skin. In general, you'remore likely to experience dry skin in the fall and winter months, when the airis dryer. You might also experience it as you get older, as your body producesless oil.

More specifically, there are a few lifestyle changes available if you'reexperiencing dry skin. When you shower, use warm water (rather than hot) ashot water reduces the amount of oil on your skin. After showering, pat theskin dry rather than rub it. Consider showering every other day instead ofevery day, use soap with moisturizing properties, and apply lotion (also withmoisturizing properties) as soon as you get out of the shower.

Hair Serum Recipe

Castor Oil
Hair Conditioner Recipe

• Castor Oil (3 Tbsp)
• Jojoba/Argon Oil (1 Tbsp)
• Lemon Juice (1/2 Lemon, Optional)

As mentioned above, castor oil is fantastic for promoting hair growth. Even ifyou're not looking to promote hair growth, castor oil makes an excellentsubstitute for hair conditioners.

Castor oil possesses a variety of antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviralproperties, meaning it treats dandruff. Its heaviness helps tame frizzy hairand split ends, and its moisture-richness penetrates your hair and promotes abeautiful shine.

To use castor oil as a conditioner, mix castor oil and Jojoba (or Argon) oil.If you're treating dandruff, consider also adding the juice from half alemon.

Castor Oil Packs

• Take a piece of flannel, cotton, or wool fabric
• Soak in Castor oil
• Place over an affected area
• When finished, place in a plastic zip lock bag, to reuse later

How Much Castor Oil is Safe?

Your particular medical condition, your age, and your weight will determinethe right amount of castor oil to take. Talk to your healthcare professionalbefore taking any castor oil as they can provide you with the right dosage.

Castor Oil: Oil of Many Uses

Castor oil is often considered a remedy for relieving constipation; however,it can do so much more than that. From helping you regrow and strengthen yourhair, to treating arthritis, castor oil uses andbenefits are numerous. Since its first uses in ancient Egypt,the various castor oil uses and benefits are popular with people around theworld.

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