21 Healthy Uses And Benefits Of Castor Oil

Castor oil has an incredible range of uses and natural benefits, but many people have misconceptions about castor oil or aren’t aware of just how amazing it truly is.

Over time, we’ve moved away from natural ingredients like this because of the convenience of store-bought products but there’s a reason why our grandmas loved this stuff.

Just like baking soda, castor oil offers so many benefits and uses that deserve a place in the homes of everyone seeking a healthier, more natural way of life.

Let’s get into it!

TL;DR

Castor oil, made from the cold-pressed seeds of the castor plant, is a versatile oil used to promote skin and hair health. It can also serve as a natural remedy. Unlike other seed oils such as vegetable, soybean, and palm oils, which are often highly processed and contain omega-6 fatty acids, castor oil retains its natural properties. Its use provides anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and moisturizing benefits.

What Is Castor Oil?

Castor oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). It’s a pale yellow liquid with a distinct taste and odor.

Rich in ricinoleic acid, castor oil has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and moisturizing properties, which means it’s beneficial for your skin and hair, and works great as a natural remedy for conditions like constipation and minor skin infections.

…But that’s only the start of it. Castor Oil has many uses and can be combined with other ingredients and oils to make more natural products.

21 Healthy Benefits And Uses Of Castor Oil

1. Improves Hair Strength & Health:

Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which helps to improve blood circulation to the scalp, promoting healthy and stronger hair.

While this can lead to hair growth, no conclusive evidence shows that castor oil directly promotes hair growth. However, increased blood circulation helps hair follicles to get adequate blood flow which can lead to hair growth.

2. Moisturizes Dry Scalp:

Just by pouring it on your skin, you can start to feel how hydrating it can be. If you’re not used to it, it can even feel sticky or super thick.

All you need is a small amount to help soothe and moisturize a dry, flaky scalp and reduce dandruff. Apply a bit to the tip of your finger and massage it into your scalp, or add a few drops directly to your scalp. Be careful not to use too much, as it can make your hair greasy.

3. Give Your Hair A Shine:

Applying castor oil to your hair can add a nice shine, making it look healthier but trust me you only need a little. I only use castor oil on updos or slick back buns and other styles.

Castor oil can be heavy especially if you use too much which could result in it weighing down your hair. All you need is enough to cover one finger, at the very most.

4. Treats Split Ends:

Using castor oil on the ends of your hair can help reduce split ends. Just rub a small amount in your palms to warm the oil and then apply it to your ends.

You can leave the castor oil on for about 30 minutes or overnight for extra treatment. Just be sure to protect your pillowcase with a head wrap or bonnet.

5. Promotes Eyebrow and Eyelash thickness

Castor oil can be used to thicken eyebrows and eyelashes as well as promote healthier, darker, fuller-looking eyelash and eyebrow hair.

6. Boosts Skin Hydration:

Just like your scalp, your skin can benefit from the natural moisturizing properties of castor oil. It can be used to treat dry skin and help keep it hydrated and smooth.

…But a little goes a long way. I wouldn’t use it like it’s lotion or body oil but more as a moisturizing agent.

I like to pair it with lighter oils(coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil) for easier application, or mix it into my lotions and then apply it to my skin. You can apply warm castor oil to dry patches to treat specific areas.

7. Reduces Acne:

The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil help reduce acne. It can also help reduce any puffiness and swelling. I like applying it under my eyes to reduce eye bags.

8. Soothes Sunburn:

Applying castor oil can help soothe and heal sunburned skin. Mixing it with aloe vera gel can give you an after-sun gel that can help relieve any tingling and discomfort.

9. Treat Minor Wounds

Castor oil’s antibacterial properties can help treat minor wounds. You can apply it 1-2 times daily, or as needed until the wound has healed.

While castor oil is suitable for minor cuts, and scrapes, for deep or severe wounds, or if the wound shows signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional.

10. Reduces Wrinkles:

Castor oil helps to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

11. Treats Stretch Marks:

Regular application of castor oil can help fade stretch marks over time.

Its rich fatty acids can get deep into the skin, leading to collagen production and skin elasticity. You just have to be consistent with it. Over time, castor oil can improve skin texture and gradually reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

12. Relieves Joint Pain:

When used as a massage oil, castor oil can help reduce pain and inflammation in joints and muscles. Its anti-inflammatory benefits soothe sore areas, while its thick consistency allows for deep tissue massage, improving blood circulation.

Regular use can even provide relief from conditions like arthritis and muscle soreness.

13. Boosts Immunity:

Castor oil can help support the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections.

When applied topically or taken internally, castor oil stimulates the lymphatic system, leading to increased lymphocyte count and activity.

This boost in white blood cells can improve the body’s ability to defend against pathogens and support overall immune health.

14. Laxative:

Castor oil is a well-known natural laxative that can help relieve constipation. All you need is about 1 to 2 tablespoons but I’ll warn you, it doesn’t taste great but it’s a great option for anyone wanting a natural laxative option.

15. Induces Labor:

Castor oil is sometimes used under medical supervision to induce labor in pregnant women.

Its strong laxative effect stimulates bowel movements, which can lead to uterine contractions. However, this method should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

16. Reduces Menstrual Pain:

One of my favorite uses of castor oil is using it to reduce mental cramps.

I hate taking medicine every time I start cramping and sometimes a heat pad is not always convenient but castor oil is super easy to apply and effective at soothing menstrual cramps.

I just massage it on the lower abdomen and sometimes my lower back.

17. Treats Fungal Infections:

Its antifungal properties make it effective in treating fungal infections like ringworm. However, if you see a fungal infection getting worse or not healing contact a medical professional.

Always pay attention to any changes to your skin in case an infection, rash, or wound gets worse.

18. Lymphatic Stimulant

Castor oil acts as a lymphatic stimulant, helping to improve lymphatic circulation and detoxification.

When applied topically, it gets lymph fluid moving, which can reduce swelling and remove toxins from the body.

19. Detoxifies the Skin:

Castor oil helps detox skin by deeply penetrating and drawing out impurities from the pores.

This helps reduce breakouts and improve your overall skin health. I like to massage a small amount to my face after I wash my face.

20. Reduces Scars:

Castor oil can help heal and reduce the appearance of scars. It can penetrate deeply and boost cell regeneration.

For best results, apply castor oil to the scar daily. You could also mix it with beneficial oils like rosehip oil or vitamin E oil for added scar-healing properties.

21. Heals Cracked Heels:

Castor oil can be used to soften and heal cracked heels. Just warm a small amount, apply it to your heels, and put on socks overnight. You can also mix it with other oils and body butter to add extra benefits.

The Difference Between Castor Oil And Other Seed Oils

People who avoid consuming seed oils like vegetable, palm, and soybean oil might also have concerns about using castor oil, even for skincare and health. And I dont blame them!! I try to avoid seed oils at all cost but castor oil is NOT like other seed oils.

Castor oil differs in that it is not overly processed like other seed oils high in omega-6 fatty acids. It’s actually cold-pressed with very minimal processing causing it to retain more of it’s natural properties.

The primary issues with other seed oils involve dietary intake and industrial processing, concerns that do not apply to castor oil.

Final Thoughts

While castor oil may be a seed oil, it’s minimally processed retaining much of it’s natural properties.

Whether you use it as a home remedy or to spice up your natural beauty routine, castor oil is a great option for anyone wanting to use natural ingredients to improve their overall health.

…but remember it’s thick and a lot goes a long way! Using too much can make your skin or hair look greasy so make sure you test it out first using only a small amount.

Frequently Asked Questions