Castor oil may bring up memories of your grandmother’s home remedies and, of course, who can forget the taste? The oil, which comes form the castor plant, Ricinus communis, is commonly used as a natural laxative. However, packed with vitamin E, castor oil also provides a host of other health and beauty benefits from simple everyday uses. Get the most out of castor oil by trying it for:
Gut health:
Mixing just one teaspoon with orange or cranberry juice daily, can help keep your bowels moving. However, it’s important NOT to overdo it, as castor oil is a natural laxative.
Hair and scalp (including stopping split ends):
When it comes to split ends, hair growth, scalp health, maintaining your vibrant dye job, or locking in moisture, this unique vegetable oil has been known to reduce breakage, boost growth, thickness, and rid your scalp of flakes and itchiness.
For best results, massage 3 tablespoons of castor oil and 1 tablespoon Jojoba or Argan oil into the scalp –each time you shampoo – while your coif is wet — watch your hair reach Rapunzel lengths.
Pain relief:
Whether you’re bogged down by arthritis, sore muscles, or abrasions, castor oil is the key to relief. Just a few drops of healthy oil may promote healing, blood circulation, as well as reduce common aches, pains, and muscle soreness.
In fact, a 2009 study published in Phytotherapy Research found that the oils healthy properties helped relieve pain among patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Acne: Say goodbye to embarrassing cystic acne! Not only has castor oil been known to decrease inflammation, but it kills the acne-causing bacteria, delivering clear skin faster. For best results, apply before bedtime.
One study published in the