Benefits Of Castor Oils
Mar 23, 2023
Castor oil is a non-volatile fatty oil that is derived from the seeds of the castor bean (Ricinus communis) plant, aka castor seeds. The castor oil plant belongs to the flowering spurge family called Euphorbiaceae and is mainly cultivated in Africa, South America and India (India accounts for over 90% of castor oil exports globally).
Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). It has been used for many centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions, as well as for cosmetic purposes.
Castor oil has a high concentration of ricinoleic acid, which is believed to offer several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It also contains other fatty acids, such as oleic, linoleic, and stearic acids, as well as vitamin E.
Some of the common uses of castor oil include:
1. Promotes Hair Growth: Castor oil strengthens hair follicle, making them less prone to breakage, and promotes hair growth.
2. Reduces Skin Inflammation: It has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces skin inflammation when applied topically.
3. Improves Digestion: Castor oil can be used as a natural laxative to improve digestion and relieve constipation.
4. Boosts Immune System: The fatty acids found in castor oil have antiviral and antibacterial properties, boosting the immune system.
5. Treats Acne: Castor oil has a low comedogenic score, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores. It cleanses the skin and can help treat acne.
6. Reduces Joint Pain: It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that relieve joint pain and stiffness in conditions such as arthritis.
7. Moisturizes Skin: Castor oil can moisturize the skin, making it soft and supple.
8. Provides Relief in Menstrual Cramps: Castor oil can provide relief from menstrual cramps when applied on the abdomen with a warm compress.
9. Induces Labor: Castor oil can be used to induce labor as it stimulates contractions of the uterus.
10. Soothes Sunburns: Castor oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe sunburns and other skin irritations.
Other Benefits
There are many other alternative medicine benefits of castor seed oil, which include minimizing the factors that cause migraines, promoting good sleep, treating symptoms of colic among babies, preventing corns and cracked heels, and treating mouth sores and chapped lips.
Castor Oil Uses
You can use castor seed oil in a number of ways, depending on what health issues you are dealing with.
Castor oil can be consumed in small quantities as a laxative and to coat your stomach in case of nausea or chronic vomiting.
It can be used topically on skin and hair, in order to increase the luster and shine.
It is often used on wounds to speed healing and prevent infections