Ingredient Spotlight: CASTOR OIL

Ingredient Spotlight  CASTOR OIL
Pexels

I grew up using castor oil as a child. I remember my grandmother making it and using it in my hair. For the longest time until my early teens, it was just about the only hair product I knew and used in my curls; so I grew up loving the scent of castor oil. So, in reminisce of my childhood, I thought I’d add castor oil as a spotlight article today.

Castor oil is a vegetable oil that’s extracted from the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis L.).  Castor seeds contain between 30%–50% oil, which is extracted from the beans by several methods, including mechanical pressing, solvent extraction, or a combination of the two. It is a colourless or pale-yellow liquid with a distinct taste and odor.

This vegetable oil, has been used in both medicinal and non-medicinal applications for centuries and boasts many purported benefits ranging from beauty to health. Here are some common castor oil uses:

Skin health

The main active ingredient in castor oil is ricinoleic acid, an antioxidant-rich fatty acid that may help moisturize dry skin and lessen the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Castor oil is also thought to have antibacterial properties, which can help with acne and even wound healing.

Hair growth

One of castor oil’s biggest claims to fame is that it is thought to help hair grow. It’s commonly mixed with a carrier oil like jojoba and then applied to the scalp and hair, as castor oil can be very sticky and heavy on its own. As I mentioned above, growing up, it was the only oil (product) used in my hair.

People also put it on their brows and lashes. To do this, use a clean mascara wand or brow brush to apply a tiny bit of oil, making sure that it doesn’t get in your eyes.

Dandruff

Castor oil has been used as a home treatment for dandruff, in part because it’s believed to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s commonly mixed with a carrier oil for this application as well.

Constipation relief

Castor oil is perhaps best known for being a laxative. It is considered safe in small doses to treat occasional constipation, but it’s not recommended for long-term use. Ingesting castor oil can have some not so good side effects, so it’s important not to misuse it and to check with your healthcare practitioner before taking it.

Lymphatic drainage

Castor oil packs (pieces of cloth soaked in castor oil and applied to the skin) are said to help stimulate the lymphatic system and boost lymphatic drainage.

Pain relief

Some studies have shown that, when applied topically, ricinoleic acid has an analgesic effect.

Full-Size Anti-Aging Body Balm with purchase of $135+ at Osea Malibu.

The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Face to Curls is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. You understand and agree that Face to Curls shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

RELATED ARTICLES

Avoid These Terrible Travel Tips, According to Experts
Lifestyle & Wellness

Avoid These Terrible Travel Tips, According to Experts

What NOT to Do on Your Holiday Trip Traveling can open a whole new world of experiences, cultures, and memories. But leading up to the great adventure is usually a path filled with ‘dos and don’ts’. Here, we take a look at some of the common travel myths, show you why they just don’t work, […]

How Lip Balm Can Protect Your Taste Buds on High-Altitude Flights Expert Tips
Lifestyle & Wellness

How Lip Balm Can Protect Your Taste Buds on High-Altitude Flights: Expert Tips

Flying at high altitudes can be a dry and uncomfortable experience, particularly affecting your sense of taste. Dehydration is a common issue on flights, and most passengers don’t realize that this can extend to their mouths, influencing how they perceive flavors. Alexandra Browman, a Travel Advisor at Truely Travel eSim, puts it simply: “Lip balm […]

Autumn-inspired household items to brighten up your home on darker days
Lifestyle & Wellness

Autumn-inspired household items to brighten up your home on darker days

As autumn approaches, the days get shorter, the evenings darker and the weather colder.  As we retreat indoors, reluctantly, at first, it’s a good time to look around your home. It is time to enjoy snuggling up under a blanket with the fire going and eating soups and strews, while reading a great book or […]