Castor oil is made from seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, and people have been using this thick, odorless oil for 1000s of years, modern research backs up some of its traditional uses from its anti-inflammatory properties to the ability to help induce labor.
There are still studies investigating more of its potential health benefits, but castor oil is completely safe when used as directed. It’s found in a range of skin and hair products sold all over the world, and even pure castor oil can be found at some specialty health stores.
A Natural Laxative
One of the more well-known uses of castor oil is to help relieve constipation. Just mix a tablespoon of castor oil into some fruit juice to get things moving again, castor oil is rich in fatty acids that are not easily absorbed within the intestines, and it moves through them quickly without bringing other wastes along with it. Too much can do more harm than good. So as with all things, it should not be consumed in moderation.
Improve sleep
Insomnia is not a new condition, but with the fast-paced stress-inducing lives we lead nowadays full of screens, it’s no wonder so many more people suffer from sleeping problems. If you have insomnia, rub a bit of castor oil over your eyelids before you go to sleep, instead of relying on harmful habit-forming medications, your body absorbs the oil and promotes healthy circulation, helping you become more relaxed and fall asleep easier.
Fights Fungal Infections
Castor oil also contains undecylenic acid that helps block the development of fungal infections. Some health practitioners believe that it can even cure yeast infections and athletes. It’s able to fend off ringworm as well, without having to undergo potential side effects of prescription medications. Simply mix with coconut oil and apply it to the affected area and leave it on overnight until the fungus heals.
Reduce Hair Loss
Hair loss affects many people, and the search for a cure is still underway, castor oil is a cheap, effective natural option for dealing with hair loss. Thanks to its Vitamin E, omega-six, omega-nine fatty acids, and oleic acid content. Apply castor oil to your roots regularly to improve your hair quality and encourage growth.
Eases Migraines
Castor oil is a natural pain reliever and therefore, a great remedy for headaches and migraines. Just massage a teaspoon of the oil into your forehead for a minute or so, and you should feel relief from the painful symptoms within a few minutes.
Treats Arthritis
Some natural health practitioners claim that castor oil can alleviate joint pain due to arthritis as well, its anti-inflammatory properties and oleic acid content can reduce pain and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis, these beneficial effects can be achieved by massaging the affected joints with castor oil or drinking a few teaspoons and some warm water.
Reduce Stretch Marks
Thanks to its moisturizing properties, castor oil can help to lessen the visibility of stretch marks. Research shows that castor oil minimizes the appearance of stretch marks, by keeping the skin from drying out. To achieve the best results, massaged onto the affected areas once in the morning and once at night.
Boosts The Immune System
If your immune system is not working as it should. It’s impossible to maintain a happy, healthy life. Consuming a bit of castor oil regularly can improve your immune system, helping with things like allergies or rashes, better usually due to your body’s unhealthy inflammatory response.
Applying a cloth soaked in castor oil to your abdomen increases your body’s absorption of the oil, castor oil is a healthy, natural remedy for many things, and has been deemed safe to use. However, you should always make sure to consume it in moderation.
To avoid any unwanted side effects, before applying any significant amount of castor oil to your skin always patch test by placing a small amount on your arm and letting it sit for 24 hours with any reaction, even slight redness or itching means you should avoid using it altogether.
Despite all of its incredible benefits, don’t go overboard with castor oil and always exercise caution while using it.
