Castor Oil

Castor Oil Benefits

Castor oil is a vegetable oil produced by pressing the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). In terms of composition, it is a triglyceride fatty acid and nearly 90% of its fatty acid substance is ricinoleic acid, an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid. Other vital components include oleic acid and linoleic acid.

This oil was once a folk remedy and was widely used to boost immune function at the first sign of a cold, flu, or other infection, as well as to ease constipation and induce vomiting in cases of poisoning. The first recorded use of this oil dates back to the ancient Egyptians, who apparently used it to treat eye infections, and in various skin care applications. While this oil offers many uses, its most common application remains as an effective constipation reliever, whether taken internally (so long as the product is food-grade) or via the application of Castor oil packs. 

This oil is also known for its robust antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, digestive, immune and lymphatic stimulating, and skin healing properties. This explains why it is often featured in natural skin and hair care products. It also makes an outstanding carrier oil for essential oils in aromatherapy. Indeed, 4-5 drops of your choice of essential oil(s) mixed into 2-3 tablespoons of castor oil can be massaged into the skin daily for moisture and hydration, to prevent water loss and boost wound healing. 

Benefits Of Castor Oil 

• Anti-Inflammatory & Antimicrobial
• Laxative
• Immune System Support / Lymphatic Stimulant
• Skin Health

Common Uses For Castor Oil

Castor oil has a wide variety of potential applications. Some of the most common uses include:

• Acne Prevention & Treatment
• Arthritis Treatment (Pain Relief)
• Boosting Immune Function
• Deep Skin Cleansing
• Eliminating Fine Lines and Wrinkles
• Healing Wounds and Abrasions, Including Sunburns
• Helping Prevent Skin and Scalp From Drying Out (Retaining Moisture)
• Improving Circulation / Lymphatic Drainage
• Preventing infection – effective against many types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Relieving constipation
• Strengthening and Growing Hair
• Reduce Swelling and Inflammation
• Relieving Menstrual Cramps

Selecting A Quality Oil

There are three basic types of castor oil available in stores and online. These include:

Cold-pressed castor oil — This type is produced by cold-pressing the castor bean seeds to extract their natural oil content. The result is a slightly viscous, clear, colourless to pale liquid with little to no scent. This type of high-quality oil is the type recommended for internal use so long as it's formulated for internal use. Oils made for aromatherapy use are not to be ingested. 

Yellow castor oil — This type is made from the castor bean, usually through pressing with no heat, although some brands use chemicals. As a frame of reference, the lighter the oil is, the purer the product should be.

Jamaican black castor oil — This oil is made by first roasting the castor beans, which results in a dark colour and the characteristic burnt smell. This is the method that is traditionally used in Jamaica. Keep in mind that heating may have denatured the oil to a certain extent. However, the ash in this type of oil results in a more alkaline pH, which offers more clarifying properties.

Beyond selecting the type of castor oil that best responds to your particular needs, you’ll want to look for one that is pure, certified organic, and free of pesticides, parabens, phthalates and artificial colours or fragrances. You should also note, oils intended for aromatherapy use should not be ingested, only food-grade oils are safe for consumption.