8 Castor Oil Uses

A New Look at an Old Remedy

Baby boomers may remember mom’s or grandma’s reliance on a dose of castor oil to ease a tummy ache. To a young child, the taste of this purgative could feel like a punishment, but that old remedy has gotten a new image. Keep reading to learn about this old standby, and how it can become part of your beauty and wellness routine.

What Is Castor Oil?

This essential oil is derived from seeds of the castor bean plant, Ricinus communis, a fast-growing plant that is an evergreen shrub in tropical climates and is an annual in cooler areas. “The oil from the seeds has been used for centuries for digestive and anti-inflammation assistance,” says Victoria Rivera, MD, a physician in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands. In the 21st century, castor oil is a common ingredient in many cosmetics, and in shampoos, conditioners and other hair-care products.

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Types of Castor Oil

Oils differ based on the method used to extract the oil from the seeds. Cold-pressed oil is produced without using heat, and therefore remains high in its natural therapeutic properties. Look for cold-pressed castor oil, which has a pale yellow color, for skin- and hair-care treatments. Oil that is produced through chemical extraction or through a refining process may not have the therapeutic properties of cold-pressed oil.

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Moisturize Skin

“Castor oil is high in vitamin E and a couple of different types of omega fatty acids. It is easily absorbed into the skin, coating and sealing it, so it prevents moisture loss,” Dr. Rivera explains. For skin application, it’s best to mix it into another “carrier” oil like coconut, jojoba, grapeseed, almond or olive oil. Mix the oils in a 2:1 ratio: Two parts of carrier oil to one part castor oil. “Try it on a small patch of skin at first to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction to it,” says Dr. Rivera.

Take Care of Your Hair

Castor oil is said to soften, moisturize and provide essential nutrients for hair. “It’s great for the ends of my hair to prevent dryness and breaking off,” says Charlotte, North Carolina, makeup artist Jami Svay. Jamaican black castor oil, found in many hair products, is pressed from seeds that have been roasted, giving the oil a darker color, and has higher purifying properties due to a higher pH level. “Pure Jamaican castor oil has been used in my family for generations,” Svay says. “My grandmother used it, and now my sons tame their frizzy mane with it.”

Facial Cleanse + Eyebrow Treatment

“It seems counter-intuitive, but it’s like when women used to use cold cream to cleanse the face,” says Stacy Haynes, MD, a dermatologist in Birmingham, Alabama. Castor oil helps to clean pores, pull out dirt and bacteria and lock in moisture. “Put it on a cotton pad and cleanse with that. Follow up with a toner to get the residue off and clean the pores,” Dr. Haynes says. Claims that a daily application of the oil to eyebrows will promote hair growth are strictly anecdotal. “Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it could stop any inflammation in the eyebrow area and allow the hair to grow,” Dr. Haynes says in explaning why some might think it can help eyebrow hair grow. “But there are no studies that show it’s effective.”

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Don't Hide Your Hands

A dab of castor oil can help soften the skin around your nails and reduce dryness. “I use it as a cuticle softener,” says makeup artist Jami Svay. Because it’s a potent oil, Dr. Rivera suggests mixing it with mineral oil, coconut, grapeseed or other neutral oils for any topical application on skin.

After Sunburn or Windburn

The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil may help after you’ve spent too much time in the sun. “There are no studies, so everything is from people using it and reporting on the benefits, but if the sunburn is minimal and there are no other issues, castor oil can help put moisture back in the skin,” says Dr. Haynes. Likewise, if skin is dry from windburn after a road trip in an open convertible or too much time on the slopes, it might offer "skin benefits from the vitamins and minerals castor oil provides," she says.

Ease Aches and Pains

Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and a castor oil pack – a cloth soaked in castor oil and applied directly to skin -- may ease arthritis pain, strained muscles and minor injuries. “It is readily absorbed and can give relief to that area,” Dr. Rivera says. To make a castor oil pack, place a folded piece of dye-free cotton flannel in a clean jar and add castor oil, a small amount at a time to allow it to saturate the cloth. Place the pack on the affected area and cover with plastic wrap to keep the oil in place, and leave it on for 45 minutes to an hour. Store the pack in the jar. Replace the fabric and oil when you see discoloration or notice a rancid smell.

Help With Healing

“You can use castor oil for inflammation, for mild fungal infections and for wound healing because of its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties,” Dr. Rivera says. Applied to the skin after minor injuries, these properties are said to prevent or reduce infection and inflammation by improving localized blood flow. “It’s a triglyceride – not good in blood vessels but great on our skin.”

And About That Old Remedy...

For many people, its laxative action was once the primary use of castor oil. The oil works to relieve occasional constipation by stimulating the colon and softening the stool to allow easier elimination. Its use as a laxative has declined as more effective laxatives with fewer “adverse effects” have become available, according to the National Institutes of Health. Side effects can include abdominal cramping, vomiting, bloating and dizziness. The laxative should not be used during pregnancy, NIH cautions, as it could cause premature contractions. For safety, consult your physician before ingesting castor oil.

Before You Grow It: A Note Of Caution

Castor bean plants have large, star-shaped leaves and unusual flowers. If you’re considering growing it in the garden, take note: While Ricinus communis can be an interesting, fast-growing ornamental in the landscape, be aware that all parts of the plant are toxic (though its toxicity does not transfer to the oil). Children or pets may be tempted to sample the seeds, which are extremely poisonous.

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