From ancient beauty secrets to modern skincare routines, the benefits of castor oil have evolved over time, offering a holistic approach to nourishing and revitalizing the body, skin, hair, and so much more.
Castor oil stands out as a unique carrier oil due to it’s incredible overall body benefits. This viscous, golden oil boasts an intriguing blend of properties, making it a versatile go-to for a multitude of beauty and wellness needs. The seeds or “beans” have been used in the past as a laxative, to treat skin inflammation, for headaches, to induce labour, and help with leprosy and syphilis.
Let’s explore the numerous ways it can enhance your personal wellness plan. From skin and hair to overall health, wellness and body detox, prepare to be amazed by castor oil, a plant that was at one point considered a weed.
“Castor oil will leave the body in better condition than it found it.” Edgar Cayce
Unveiling the Mysteries of Castor Oil
A Remarkable Fatty Acid Profile: Castor oil is truly one-of-a-kind, thanks to its unique fatty acid profile. Comprising a whopping 90% ricinoleic acid, an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, this oil feels heavier and stickier than most carriers. But don’t let its unique texture deter you; this is where its magic begins.
Cold-Pressed Purity: Derived from the seeds of the castor plant through cold-pressing, castor oil retains its pure essence, free from the interference of heat or chemicals. The plant grows in tropical regions, native the Mediterranean region, and also grows in India and Africa.
Subtle Yet Effective: Like many other carrier oils, castor oil’s scent is barely detectable, making it a perfect base for various cosmetic applications.
A Versatile Emulsifier: Beyond its use as a carrier, castor oil doubles as an effective emulsifier, effortlessly blending different ingredients together.
The Beauty Secret of Ancient Egypt: Castor oil’s history traces back to the Ebers Papyrus of ancient Egypt, (a collection of herbal remedies c. 1550 BC.) Egyptians used it for various ailments, from soothing skin inflammation to keeping lamps lit. The beans have been found in tombs dating back to 4000 BC.
Edgar Cayce’s Healing Revelation: The 20th century witnessed the resurgence of castor oil’s healing properties, thanks to Edgar Cayce (1877-1945), known as the “father of holistic medicine.” He illuminated its virtues to a broader audience, further solidifying its status as a natural remedy.
With so many benefits, how do we make the best use of castor oil?
A beneficial companion for the skin
- Soothing to inflamed, irritated skin
- Helpful for acne prone skin due to antimicrobial properties
- Moisturizing for the skin and boosts skin elasticity
- Helps to reduce the signs of aging by softening fine lines and wrinkles
- Protects the skin from environmental damage with the help of antioxidants
- May help decrease the look of cellulite and the appearance of stretch marks
Castor oil’s soothing touch calms inflamed skin, heals minor cuts and wounds, and combats fungal infections. Acne-prone skin finds relief in its antimicrobial properties, while its moisturizing properties soften fine lines, reduces wrinkles, and enhance skin elasticity. Shielding your skin from environmental damage, it even dares to challenge cellulite and stretch marks, making you feel even more beautiful than you already are.
A History in Hair Care
- Boosts hair growth and encourages the growth of stronger hair by stimulating circulation
- Softens the hair
- Repairs breakage in hair
- May add luster to your locks
- Provides dandruff control while easing dry scalp and itching
- May slow the growth of greying hairs
If you’re looking to glow up your hair game, castor oil is a true blessing. It promotes hair growth, repairs breakage, and stimulates circulation for stronger, shinier strands. It can also provide relief from dandruff and greying hairs. Try this hair oil treatment on your road to healthier, smoother, stronger hair.
DIY Hair oil treatment
What you will need:
Small glass bowl or jar
Small silicone spatula
120 ml Glass bottle with dropper or PET squeezable container
Castor oil 50g
Jojoba oil 25g
Olive oil 25g
Sandalwood essential oil 22 drops
Rosemary essential oil 8 drops
Directions: Combine all ingredients into the small glass bowl and stir well. Carefully pour the mixture into your glass jar or PET plastic container.
Apply a small amount of the oil to the palm of your hand. Rub hands together to warm up the oil and apply to the hair. Don’t forget to apply the oil to your fingertips and give yourself a scalp massage. I prefer to apply this to dry hair at night. Wash it out in the morning.
We use castor oil as a key ingredient in our solid shampoo bars. Check them out below!
Wellness Benefits
- The omega 9 component of castor oil helps to ease stiffness and inflammation thereby reducing joint and muscle aches and pains
- Boosts circulation and can help clear congestion
- Can help balance hormones
- Helps support the immune system
- Can help support the lymphatic system and eliminate toxins
- It is a warming oil making it a good option for massage blends
An overall tonic for the body
The benefits of castor oil extend to your overall well-being. Its omega-9 component eases joint and muscle pain, clears congestion, and boosts circulation. It helps balance hormones, fortify the immune system, and supports the lymphatic system in eliminating toxins. Its warming properties make it a delightful addition to massage blends, acting as an overall tonic for your body.
Demystifying Castor Oil Packs
Castor oil packs are cloths, soaked in castor oil, that are applied topically to the abdominal area, typically over the liver. Said to bring forth healing benefits like relief from constipation, inflammation, and liver congestion, they work their wonders by stimulating the movement of fluids within your body. 30 minutes of this soothing ritual daily can lead to a release of toxins from your liver and other organs.
A Word of Caution
Expecting or Nursing?: Avoid using castor oil packs during pregnancy or nursing, as their effects on your body may not align with your current needs.
Handle with Care: Never heat castor oil packs in the microwave, as it can lead to fire hazards. Always prioritize safety in your wellness journey.
In the world of natural remedies, castor oil emerges as a true superstar. Its rich history, unique composition, and multifaceted benefits make it a must-have in your beauty and wellness arsenal. So, whether you’re looking to enhance your skin’s radiance, revitalize your hair, or embark on a mystical healing journey, castor oil is your trusted companion, ready to work its magic in every drop.
