No doubt that the world knows Castor oil as a powerful and effective laxative. But there is more to this light yellow coloured magic oil, than being a laxative. Whether it is to moisturize the skin or condition the hair, there are many castor oil benefits for skin and hair.

So, keep reading to find out what are those benefits of castor oil that everyone is talking about and which celebrity is endorsing castor oil as their skin and hair care regime?

Extracted from the plant Ricinus communis or castor oil plant, the beans of it are grounded to produce a pale-yellow oil, which has a very distinct flavour and smell. In ancient times, castor oil is used to treat ailments like eye irritation and even given to pregnant women to stimulate labour.

I know you all have come to this blog to know the skin and hair care benefits of castor oil. So, let’s get on with it.

Skin care Benefits of Castor Oil

Whether it’s moisturizing the skin and preventing dryness, Castor oil offers many benefits. There are famous celebrities who are a fan of essential oils like castor oil. And you would think why?

Well, it’s because the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of castor oil make it a perfect choice for people with sensitive skin. 

When applied to the skin, the fatty acids in the oil helps moisturize and nourish the skin from both inside and out.

Other skin care benefits of Castor oil are:

• Helps treat Acne by inhibiting the growth of acne causing bacteria
• Softens and smoothens the skin
• Treats wrinkles by applying castor oil on face overnight
• Improves the skin tone by restoring the uneven skin tones
• Reduces blackheads
• Keeps the skin hydrated for longer time
• Relieves dry and irritated skin
• Acts as a natural humectant and locks the moisture into the skin
• Castor oil also works perfectly for combination skin.

Hair care Benefits of Castor Oil

The benefits of castor oil don’t stop with the skin, because it offers great hair benefits too. When it comes to hair, some of the most common hair problems are dandruff and hair fall.

The antifungal and antibacterial properties of castor oil treat the fungal infection of the scalp, which is one of the main reasons of dandruff and also helps cure scalp infections.

Castor oil also offers benefits for hair growth, as applying the oil onto the hair ends two to three times a week, prevents the hair breakage.

Even Charlize Theron in her interview with Harper Bazaar calls Castor oil her hair secret and says, “Some-one told me about it. I put it on my brows and scalp once or twice a week. It definitely made my hair thicker.”

Applying the oil to your hair can also treats and prevents the problem of hair oil and makes the hair roots stronger as well.

So, there is no doubt that castor oil serves many benefits and uses for hair care. We might as well call it a hair miracle oil!

Castor oil for Eyelashes and Eyebrows

Before using castor oil on your eyelashes or eyebrows, make sure that you use pure castor and not the mixed one. As, the one blended with other oils or ingredients may cause irritation, or not give you the results you’re looking for.

With that out of the way, let’s move forward with the benefits.

Although there is no research supporting the role of castor oil in eyelash hair growth. But there are several studies that have shown that castor oil can support hair growth. This shows that applying castor oil to your eyelash and eyebrow makes them thick and strong.

Make sure that you thoroughly clean your eyebrows and lashes before using the castor oil on them and be very careful that it doesn’t get into your eye.

Different Brands of Castor oil in India

Castor oil is available in two different varieties in the market – one is cold-pressed castor oil, which is clear in colour. While the other one is Jamaican black castor oil, which is dark brown in colour.

Some of the well-known brands of castor oil are:

• Soulflower Cold Pressed Castor Oil
• Nature’s Absolutes Cold Pressed Castor Oil
• Mamaearth Castor Oil for Healthier Skin, Hair & Nails
• Hill Dews Castor Oil
• Pure and Sure Organic Castor Oil

Castor Oil Side Effects

Don’t worry, it is highly unlikely that the side effects occur to people who use the castor oil in a required and limited use. But, like any other oil or product, there can be some side effects that can happen to people.

There are some side effects of castor oil that are reported, relating to allergic reactions, such as:

• skin rashes
• swelling
• itching.

People who experiences the above mentioned or any other reactions, after applying the oil, they should seek medical help immediately.

I hope that you guys find the blog interesting and helpful to you. If you do then, like and share it among family and friends. To give your suggestions on it, feel free to write in the comment section.