What is castor oil?

Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis).

What are the potential health benefits of castor oil?

Lymphatic system benefits

Castor oil is traditionally used for creating movement in the lymphatic system and used as packs to support the health of of the liver and lymph nodes. It is also well thought of for using as hair treatments for hair growth and strength too.

Lymph nodes are located throughout the body, including the neck, armpits, groin, around the gut, and between the lungs. A clogged lymphatic system may be associated with chronic illness and can cause breast tenderness, eczema, skin problems, constipation, cold limbs, bloating and headaches.

Unlike the cardiovascular system, the lymphatic system has no pump. Therefore it needs to be stimulated by movement or breath to prevent inflammation from building up. One of our favourite ways to support movement is by using castor oil packs. It's an easy and effective home remedy to support the health of the lymphatic system because castor oil may allow for the proper removal of toxins, dead cells and metals. In doing so it reduces the swelling in lymph nodes and increases the flow of the lymph.

When using castor oil topically, it’s best to start slowly and perform a skin patch test on a small area of your skin before applying larger amounts. Castor Oil can be applied onto the liver and to lymph nodes you can relax and rest on your bed or if you would like the option to multitask while enjoying the benefits of castoroil a great idea is to invest in a castor oil pack.

Skin health

Castor oil has moisturising capabilities and can be used topically to nourish and hydrate the skin. It may help improve dry and damaged skin, promote healing of wounds, reduce inflammation, even alleviating certain skin conditions like acne or eczema.

Healthy hair

The oil is often used in hair treatments to improve scalp health and stimulate hair growth. It can help moisturise the scalp, reduce dandruff, and promote healthier-looking, even longer hair.

Joint and muscle pain

Castor oil is sometimes used in topical products to help relive joint and muscle pain and inflammation. This is because the anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce swelling and provide some temporary relief.

Antimicrobial properties

Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, which has antimicrobial properties. It may help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making it useful in topical applications for infections of the skin or helping in wound healing.

5 steps to apply a castor oil

Step one: Drizzle a small amount of castor oil about a tablespoon onto the area you would either like to treat or onto the scalp for a hair treatment.

Step two: Massage it in for a couple of minutes.

Step three: If using on the body, place a damp flannel over area that the oil has been applied.

Step four: When using a castor oil pack apply wrap apply that next over the top of the flannel.

Step five: Place a hot water bottle over the top of the wrap (the heat applied helps the castor oil to work its way into deeper areas of the skin).