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):
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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.
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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 Journal of International Toxicology also found that castor oil may have positive effects against occupational dermatitis.
Colic:
Okay, while you’re not exactly spoon feeding your infant castor oil, the treatment, when warmed between hands and rubbed on the belly, can aid in alleviating painful gas and other tummy troubles.
Hemorrhoids:
According to experts, castor oil does wonders for external hemorrhoids, working as both a pain reliever and size reducer. For best results, soak a cotton ball in the oil and apply directly to the infected area. Let the solution sit for about 15-minutes, repeating multiple times a day.
Corns and calluses:
When applied directly onto the affected areas, castor oil may alleviate pain, swelling and ultimately cure this unsightly skin condition. For best results, massage a bit of the oil into the corns (or calluses) daily.
Birth control:
Containing a protein-rich toxin called Ricin, when administered in very low dosages, castor oil acts as a germicidal substance. It is also used as a spermicide in spermicidal gels, and lotions.
Warts and other skin conditions:
Believe it or not, the carrier for popular essential oils – including Roman chamomile oil or peppermint oil -- can be used to remove warts and skin tags. For best results, apply to the infected area every day for two weeks and you should see your unappealing skin woe disappear.
It can also be used for varicose vein removal. Here how to do it, step by step:
1. Massage your legs on a daily basis using the oil. You can feel relief from swelling and pain if you happen to have a long day.
2. During the night, rub the oil andcover it upon sleeping, so that your legs have more time to absorb the oil. You can also try mixing it with other oils if you want to.
3. To remove the remaining oil, a good bath is usually enough. But you can also use water mixed with baking soda.
It’s important to note, while castor oil appears to provide a long list of benefits, some studies have reported nausea, induced contractions, fatigue, diarrhea, and vomiting following use. Consult with your doctor before taking castor oil.
