Castor oil benefits have taken social media by storm. Can it encourage hair growth? Does it enhance skin health? Will it help the condition of my brows and lashes? And why are people massaging it in their belly buttons? While there are trending questions about the multitasking vegetable-based oil, not everyone knows the full range of ways it's being utilised. In this blog, we explore how individuals are using castor oil.
What is Castor Oil?
Let's start with the basics. Castor oil is a thick, yellowish, odour-free oil that derives from the castor plant, otherwise known as Ricinus communis. A plant-based solution, it's extracted from Ricinus seeds and has been applied for diverse purposes for millennia.
The thing that makes castor oil so unique is its composition, particularly ricinoleic acid, a powerful fatty acid that gives the oil its moisturising and anti-inflammatory qualities.
5 Ways People Are Using Castor Oil Today
1. Castor oil for constipation
One of the most well-documented and traditional roles of castor oil that dates back thousands of years is its use as an organic laxative. Thanks to the ricinoleic acid stimulating muscle contractions in the intestines, it's traditionally taken for temporary constipation relief, which has been noted for centuries and continues to be a popular home remedy.
2. Castor oil benefits for skin
Due to its moisturising properties, castor oil is also commonly used for skincare. A fan favourite amongst social media influencers, it's been featured in videos attempting to address various skin conditions and boost skin hydration. For those with a dry complexion, many dilute it with a lighter oil due to its thick consistency.
3. Castor oil for wound healing
The ricinoleic acid found in castor oil has additionally been suggested to potentially assist in reducing skin inflammation and aid healing when applied topically to minor irritations. However, for persistent dermal issues or severe wounds, it's always best to see a health practitioner.
4. Castor oil for hair growth
Although there's little research-based evidence to suggest that castor oil promotes hair growth, improves scalp disorders, or reduces hair loss, countless users still use it as a hair treatment. Individuals report that it moisturises and smooths hair, adds shine and helps prevent breakage, incorporating it as part of regular hair and scalp care routines. For the same nourishing reasons, numerous people also use castor oil on their lashes and brows, too.
5. Are there advantages to applying castor oil to your belly button?
Another TikTok trend that puts castor oil under the spotlight is a movement called navel pulling. Based on concepts of Ayurvedic medicine – India's ancient holistic health system – it involves rubbing oil into the belly button, with the belief that it may improve digestion, reduce bloating and aid weight loss when combined with a healthy lifestyle. However, there's no scientific data to support these claims.
If you're interested in trying the oil yourself, our cold-pressed castor oil is one of the natural remedies users worldwide are turning to for a wide variety of uses. View it here.
Always consult a professional before using castor oil, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medications. Don't use it for more than seven days unless instructed by a healthcare practitioner. Overuse can cause serious side effects. If constipation persists, seek medical attention.
