Castor Oil

Castor oil is well known for both, its medicinal as well as, non medicinal uses. The highlight of this article is castor oil uses and benefits.

Basically, castor oil is a non-toxic vegetable oil. It is extracted from castor beans. These beans are nothing but the seeds of the castor plant which is native to eastern and central parts of Africa. It is also grown in various other tropical as well as subtropical zones of the world. It is pale yellow in color and has a very thick consistency. It may have a mild odor but mostly it is odorless and tasteless. The unique properties of the castor oil are due to the presence of a large amount of unsaturated fatty acids in it. The major constituents of castor oil are ricinoleic acid, oleic acid and linoleic acid.

Health Benefits of Castor Oil

Castor oil benefits are known to mankind since ancient times. Hence, it is considered as an excellent folk medicine. Since old times, it is being used as laxative and helps people who are suffering from constipation. It can also treat various digestive problems that are caused by bacterial growth. Regular consumption of castor oil can keep irritable bowel syndrome in check. When it is applied on the painful joints of arthritic patients, it can provide substantial relief to the pain and inflammation. Its germicidal properties and antioxidant properties have a positive impact on the overall immune system of the body.

Castor oil can be used safely on the eyes as well. It can reduce the infection of the oil glands of the eyelid which is also known as eye stye. It is also used for treating blepharitis which causes inflammation and reddening of the eyes. When castor oil is applied, it will have a soothing effect on both the symptoms. If there is an irritation inside the eye due to presence of some debris, it can be eliminated by putting a few drops of castor oil into the eyes.

Castor can fight various skin infections caused by bacteria or fungus. It includes skin rashes, warts, ringworm and so on. Besides, there are several uses of castor oil for skin care. It fights various dry skin problems like cracked heels that often develop in winters. It helps to get rid of wrinkles on facial skin. This is possible as it improves the production of collagen and elastin which in turn helps to restore the youthful appearance of the skin. It can also be applied on the scalp to control problems like dandruff, hair loss, head lice, etc. While using castor oil for hair, you can dilute it with some other oils like almond oil or olive oil. It will make the oil lighter and it will be easier to apply.

Other Castor Oil Uses

Apart from the therapeutic uses, there are many other uses of castor oil. Due to its amazing effect on the skin and hair, castor oil is used as a component for making soaps, shampoos, lipsticks and various other cosmetics and skin care products. It is also used as a constituent in various medicinal drugs and ointments. It has excellent lubricating properties. For this reason, it was widely used to lubricate wheels of wagons in the early part of the twentieth century. In fact, during the first world war, castor oil was even used as aircraft lubricant as well. Now, it is used for manufacturing various lubricants. It helps in making of paints, dyes, varnishes, synthetic resins, sealants etc. It is used in treatment of leather. As it is fit for human consumption, it is used as an ingredients in several food additives.

The biggest castor oil advantages are that it is obtained from renewable energy sources and is biodegradable. The castor plants are perennial and thus, the seeds can are available throughout the year. Thus we can get constant supply of the oil. The disadvantage is that it can badly stain the clothes and furniture. So, it should be handled with care. Excess intake of castor oil can lead to diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc. Those who have any underlying health problem should take castor oil only after consulting their doctor.