Castor Oil: Uses, Benefits and Side effects

Castor Oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It is abundantly grown in India, South America, and Africa. Produced by cold pressing and heating castor seeds, it has been historically used as a natural laxative and to induce labor.

According to 2022 research, castor oil contains ricinoleic acid as its major component. This acid works as a moisturiser and provides nourishment to your skin. Since we have entered December and winters are only going to peak from here, castor oil benefits in preventing dry skin and promoting hair growth. 

Besides this, castor oil has several benefits, most of which we’ll get to know in this blog. So, without further ado, let’s get started

Uses of Castor Oil 

Did you know? Castor oil is a widely used component in Ayurveda- the ancient mode of medicine in India. It has been a trusted remedy for centuries and is known for its healing properties. Here are some of the top uses of castor oil; 

A Powerful Laxative 

Approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a natural laxative, castor oil is used for temporary constipation relief. However, excessive usage can cause diarrhoea and induce abdominal pain. Therefore, it is always advised to use it in moderation or after consultation with your general physician.

Moisturiser for Dry Skin 

Castor oil is a great moisturiser for dry and damaged skin during winter. Applying castor oil provides much-needed nourishment and builds a protective layer that helps keep the skin moisturised and protected from harsh weather conditions. 

Cleaning And Storage Of Dentures 

Oral hygiene becomes significant for individuals with dentures. Avoiding proper cleaning can promote the growth of bacteria and fungi, including Candida fungi, which commonly grow on dentures. 

Excessive growth of this fungi can lead to a condition known as denture stomatitis, an infection that causes redness, swelling, and irritation in the mouth. Here, castor oil can act as a saviour in this situation. It not only helps keep the dentures clean but also prevents bacterial and fungal growth. 

Benefits of Castor Oil 

Also known as Arandi in India, castor oil offers a wide range of benefits for skin and hair. Some of these benefits are covered below; 

Castor Oil Benefits for Hair 

From reducing dandruff to enhancing the hair growth rate, castor oil has numerous benefits that helps in hair nourishment. 

• Reduces Dandruff : Castor oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help nourish your hair and balance the PH of your scalp. For example, if you have a dry scalp, you are more likely to have dandruff. Applying castor oil can keep your scalp highly moisturised and healthy. On the other hand, in the case of an oily scalp, it enhances the PH balancing of oil secretion in your hair. Thus prohibiting dandruff formation. 
• Increases Blood Flow : Castor oil is abundantly rich in ricinoleic acid, a long fatty acid that induces the production of necessary vitamins and omega 3, 6, and 9 proteins in hair follicles. These vitamins and proteins enhance blood circulation and maintain overall scalp and hair health. 
• Provides Nourishment : With our busy lives, it can sometimes be difficult to care for our hair's overall health. Castor oil nourishes the scalp by eradicating dandruff and increasing blood flow, making it less itchy and healthier. 
• Enhances Hair Growth Rate : Castor oil is believed to increase hair growth up to five times the usual rate. Therefore, it comes with a whole package deal of nourishment, dandruff reduction, and enhanced blood flow. This complete combination of care and protection promotes a healthier scalp. 

Castor Oil Benefits for the Skin 

Whether it comes to fine lines reduction, acne reduction or easing sunburn or nourishing dry lips, castor oil is a bundle of goodness for your skin.

• Prevents Wrinkles : Developing wrinkles is natural with age. We can’t slow down the ageing process, but we can apply castor oil to our skin. Being rich in antioxidants, it helps fight free radicals in the body that boost the ageing process. Its anti-inflammatory effects also soothe the skin, reducing irritation and puffiness that may lead to fine lines and wrinkles. 
• Reduces Acne : Acne occurs when dead skin cells get plugged into hair follicles. It can lead to whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples. Another major cause of acne is excessive sebum secretion ( an oily substance secreted by the sebaceous gland) and bacterial growth. Castor oil's antibacterial properties prevent the formation of Cutibacterium acnes (acne-causing bacteria), keeping the skin healthy and nourished. 
• Eases Sunburn : Excessive exposure to the sun can cause sunburn, resulting in inflamed and hot skin that is highly painful to touch. Since castor oil is anti-inflammatory, it helps in soothing inflamed skin and offers relief from pain. 
• Nourishes Dry Lips : Another common problem during winter is dry lips. Besides offering glowing and nourished skin, castor oil can also be used as a natural lip balm for your skin. 

Fun fact: Castor is present in most cosmetics and personal care products such as lipsticks and lip balms, soaps and skin care products. 

How to Use Castor Oil in Your Hair? 

The best way to apply castor oil to your hair is to mix a few drops of it with carrier oils such as coconut oil. When applied solely, castor oil usually becomes sticky, so it is advisable to mix it with other carrier oils before applying it to your scalp. Once the mixture is created, start by lightly massaging your hair’s midsection and dead ends. 

Leaving the mixture in your hair for too long can also dry out your scalp. Therefore, wash the castor oil from your scalp after about two hours of massage. Most experts also recommend not using castor oil more than once a week. Doing so leads to oil buildup on the scalp which further leads to hair entanglement. 

How to Use Castor Oil on Your Skin? 

If you’re into skincare, castor oil should be part of your routine. Applying castor oil to your skin is no different from applying it to your hair. The first step involves mixing it with coconut or jojoba oil. For extra nourishment, you can add shea butter. 

After washing your face before bed, apply this mixture. You can either wipe it off with a clean and warm cloth after 1 to 5 minutes or leave it overnight. 

Side Effects of Castor Oil 

Since every coin has two faces, castor oil also has certain side effects. Some of the most common side effects include; 

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Skin rash
• Shortness of breath 
• Chest pain, etc.

Key Precautions to Take When Using Castor Oil 

If you’re already planning to include castor oil in your skin and hair care regime, you should keep certain precautions in mind to avoid any drastic side effects. Some of these include:

Avoid Castor Oil During Pregnancy 

Although castor oil is popularly known as a laxative, it is sometimes also used to induce labour. It causes spams in the intestines, further activating the bowels and vagal nerves. These spasms result in heavy uterine contractions that ease the labour process. 

Since it is already used by medical professionals, pregnant individuals are advised to avoid using it. 

Applying In A Small Amount

Castor oil might induce an allergic reaction in some individuals. Hence, it is advisable to use it minimally for the first time. Also, it should always be mixed with other carrier oils before applying to skin and hair. 

Avoid Excessive Usage 

Although castor oil is an effective solution for constipation and other gastrointestinal problems, excessive usage can lead to harmful side effects such as dizziness, abdominal cramps and bloating. '

>>Read More: 6 Amazing Flaxseed Oil Benefits You Must Know

Bottom Line 

Castor Oil can have a wonderful effect on your skin during winter and can also help promote hair growth. However, it should not be used excessively and should be initially used in a small amount to avoid causing allergic reactions. You can make the best use of this wonderful product by following the necessary precautions. 

While castor oil is known for its natural healing properties, from reducing inflammation to promoting skin and hair health, its antimicrobial benefits have made it a staple in many households for generations. 

However, while natural remedies like castor oil can support wellness, unexpected health conditions can still arise, increasing the importance of a health plan. With rising healthcare costs, having a plan can ensure that medical expenses are not burning the hole in your pocket. From pre-hospitalisation to post-hospitalisation, everything gets covered. 

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Verifying the policy details and coverage with the official policy documents is essential when purchasing health insurance. Also, kindly consult a professional medical expert to confirm the details of your health concerns.