Castor Oil Benefits for Skin, treating constipation, helping with wound healing,and More

What is castor oil? Castor oil is a non-volatile fatty oil that is derived from the seeds of the castor bean (Ricinus communis) plant.

It can be used topically and also taken internally in small amounts, for a short duration of time.

Benefits of castor oil uses include: treating constipation, helping with wound healing, preventing skin ulcers, moisturizing dry skin, reducing joint/arthritis pain, and naturally inducing labor.

Benefits for hair include aiding in growth, fighting scalp infections, and making hair shinier.

Studies suggest that many of castor oil’s benefits come down to its chemical composition. It’s classified as a type of triglyceride fatty acid, and almost 90 percent of its fatty acid content is a specific and rare compound called ricinoleic acid. Ricinoleic acid is not found in many other plants or substances, making the castor plant unique since it’s a concentrated source.

Aside from its primary constituent, ricinoleic acid, castor oil also contains other beneficial salts and esters that mainly act as skin-conditioning agents. This is why, according to a report published in the International Journal of Toxicology, this oil is used in over 700 cosmetic products and counting.

Types

Castor oil can be used in several ways: orally (taken by mouth), applied topically on the skin, applied to the hair, or massaged into the skin in the form of a castor oil pack.

Remember, any oil you ingest or consume (and even the kinds you apply directly to your skin) should really be of the highest quality to ensure safety and effectiveness.

*Where can you buy castor oil products? Ideally look for a reputable brand of cold-pressed, pure, organic castor oil at your local health food store.

                                  

To make your own castor oil pack:

Some people believe that the most effective use of castor oil is castor oil packs or poultices. These might be able to help increase topical absorption through the skin’s pores. You can make your own easily, or purchase a pre-made kit.

To make your own pack you’ll need a bottle of castor oil and a soft piece of fabric, such as flannel that can be found in health stores and online.

To make your own pack, saturate a piece of flannel and place it over your abdomen or other painful areas. It takes approximately 3–4 ounces of castor oil to make one pack the size of a washcloth or small hand towel.

Wrap castor oil cloth around any painful area. Cover the oiled cloth with another hand towel or a plastic wrap to prevent oil getting on clothes or furniture.

You may want to also apply heat to support absorption.

Let the pack sit for one hour or more.

You can also massage the oil into any area where soothing is desired.

Risks and Side Effects

Castor oil is classified by the Food and Drug Administration as generally recognized as safe for both topical and internal use. However drinking castor oil may still potentially cause side effects.

Side effects can include:

abdominal cramping

nausea

vomiting

diarrhea, especially when used in large amounts

Castor oil falls into category X for pregnant women, so if you’re pregnant you should not take it to induce labor without speaking to your doctor first. You also avoid using it to relieve constipation during pregnancy.

Allergic reactions to castor oil (used topically or internally) are possible, so seek emergency medical care if you believe you are having a serious allergic reaction.

When using castor oil topically, it’s still best to start slowly and perform a skin patch test on a small area of your skin before applying larger amounts, and also keep it away from your eyes, inside of your nose, children and pets.

Can castor oil kill you? Taking too much castor oil internally is definitely a risk and can cause digestive issues like diarrhea or cramping, along other problems. Some people experience nausea and signs of mild irritation in their gut lining when taking castor oil. That being said, it’s very unlikely to cause severe reactions as long as someone is not allergic and doesn’t overdose.

If you’re currently taking medication or have any medical condition, always speak with your doctor before using castor oil.

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects after ingesting castor oil: persistent nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, muscle cramps/weakness, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, decreased urination, mental/mood changes (such as confusion) or rectal bleeding.