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Castor oil -

One of the most popular, multi-purpose beauty oils, castor oil has gained an even bigger following in recent years thanks to internet stardom. 

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Castor oil cultivation -

Castor oil is derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant, scientifically known as Ricinus communis. It's a species of perennial flowering plant.

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Castor oil cultivation -

The plant is believed to be native to the southeastern Mediterranean Basin, Eastern Africa, and India, but it is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

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Extraction -

The oil is extracted from castor seeds, which are encased in spiky, greenish-to-reddish-purple capsules. Each capsule contains large, oval seeds. They have a mottled pattern that can vary in color.

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Extraction -

The harvesting of castor beans is done by hand when the pods are fully ripe. After the outer hull is removed, the seeds are pressed to extract the oil.

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Cold-pressed is best -

Cold-pressed castor oil, obtained without the application of heat, is generally considered to be of higher quality and purity.

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Color and texture -

The oil itself is colorless or very pale yellow with a distinct taste and odor. Its high viscosity is a notable characteristic, making it thicker than many other oils.

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Beauty benefits -

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid. This fatty acid makes up around 90% of the oil's composition and is believed to be responsible for its unique properties.

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Beauty benefits -

The oil also contains other fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acids, as well as vitamin E, minerals, and proteins. It's known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

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Promotes hair health -

While there is no conclusive proof that castor oil promotes hair health, there are anecdotal reports that castor oil can be used to improve the health of your hair. 

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Promotes hair health -

The ricinoleic acid in castor oil may help to boost circulation in the scalp. This in turn might promote healthier or stronger hair.

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Eyelash and brow growth -

Castor oil is often touted as a miracle product when it comes to eyelash and eyebrow growth. However, again, there is only anecdotal evidence. 

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Eyelash and brow growth -

By coating the hairs and moisturizing them, it's possible castor oil is helping to prevent breakage. In this way, castor oil assists with healthy hair growth.

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Skin hydration and moisture -

The triglycerides (fatty acids) in castor oil can help the skin to retain moisture, locking it in. This makes the oil a great final step in your skincare routine, sealing in serums and moisturizers, or used alone.

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Skin hydration and moisture -

Castor oil may also help to keep the skin hydrated by drawing moisture from the air to the skin, due to humectant qualities.

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Dark circles -

In some studies, castor oil has been shown to encourage the skin's production of collagen and elastin. As the area under the eyes is more visible because there's less collagen here, perhaps this is why it's credited for helping to reduce dark under-eye circles.

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Fades blemishes and pigmentation -

One of the most effective nutrients for treating pigmentation, the omega-3 fatty acids in castor oil help to grow new skin tissue, for "cleaner" looking skin.

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Healthy nails -

Castor oil can potentially promote nail growth. Its fatty acid, vitamin E, and protein content helps to strengthen the nails.

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Healthy nails -

Healthy nails are stronger and more resilient. The antimicrobial properties of castor oil help to prevent infection in the nail bed too.

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Acne and acne scarring -

Those same antimicrobial properties make it an effective treatment for some against acne. Castor oil decreases inflammation and helps heal scar tissue, which means it can aid in the reduction of acne scarring.

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Massage into sore muscles -

The anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil make it a great choice for massaging into sore muscles. It helps to reduce heat and relieve tension.

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Eczema relief -

Its role in helping to ease inflammation also makes it a natural option for relief from eczema. Castor oil has antiproliferative qualities too. In other words, it can slow down skin cell growth and promote cell repair.

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Lip care -

As well as giving lips a healthy shine and helping to reduce pigmentation, castor oil can seal in moisture to prevent dryness and chapping.

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Oil cleansing -

Castor oil is a wonderful option for anyone with an oil-cleansing routine. It can penetrate deep down into pores to dissolve impurities. Oil cleansing is a great option for those seeking to balance their skin's oil production.

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Protective barrier -

Castor oil is an occlusive moisturizer. This means it prevents the evaporation of water from the skin, forming a protective barrier that reduces water loss. Apply it directly after a shower to reap the benefits of this moisturizing action.

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Insect bites and stings -

Castor oil's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action helps to relieve the itching and stinging from insect bites. You can apply it directly onto the skin or soak a cotton ball in castor oil to apply to the bite/sting for relief.

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Diaper rash -

As well as being anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, castor oil also has anti-fungal properties. You can gently massage castor oil onto the skin to help relieve nappy rash.

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Aromatherapy -

Combine castor oil with soothing and relaxing oils like rosemary and lavender for a home spa effect. De-stressing is good for your skin and well-being too! 

Sources: (Vogue Scandinavia) (CNN) (Allure) (Gya Labs) (Medical News Today)

See also: The most common skin conditions, and their cures

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