Castor Oil

Description

Botanical Name: Ricinus communis
Common Name: Castor Oil
Type: Vegetable oil
Extraction Method: Cold-pressed or expeller-pressed from castor beans (seeds of the castor plant)
Appearance: Pale yellow, thick, and viscous oil with a mild odour
Taste: Slightly nutty or neutral (not typically consumed for flavour)

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Description:

Castor oil is a nutrient-rich plant oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant. Known for its high ricinoleic acid content, it has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, skin and hair care, and industrial applications.

Although the raw castor seed contains ricin, a toxic compound, the oil itself is safe for external and internal use when properly processed. Castor oil is valued for its moisturising, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and laxative properties.

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Key Components:

• Ricinoleic acid (85–90%) – A rare fatty acid known for anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits

• Linoleic acid, Oleic acid, Stearic acid

• Vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids

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Uses:

1. Health & Medicinal:

• Natural Laxative: Traditionally used to relieve occasional constipation (FDA-approved in small medicinal doses).

• Anti-inflammatory: Applied to reduce swelling, joint pain, or menstrual cramps (as a castor oil pack).

• Detox & Immunity: Castor packs are used in holistic medicine for liver detox and lymphatic circulation.

2. Cosmetic & Personal Care:

• Hair Care: Promotes hair growth, strengthens roots, and reduces dandruff.

• Skin Care: Deep moisturiser for dry skin, heals chapped lips, softens calluses, and reduces acne inflammation.

• Eyelashes & Brows: Applied to encourage thicker, fuller growth.

• Soaps & Balms: Used in DIY soaps, lip balms, and body butters.

3. Industrial:

• Used in lubricants, coatings, plastics, paints, and biodiesel manufacturing due to its viscosity and stability.

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Health Benefits:

• Supports skin healing (wounds, burns, dermatitis)

• Stimulates hair follicles and scalp circulation

• Fights fungal infections (e.g. ringworm)

• Mildly antimicrobial and analgesic

• Promotes collagen and elastin production

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How to Use:

• Topical: Apply directly to skin, hair, or nails; can be blended with lighter oils like coconut or jojoba for easier application.

• Internal (with caution): When labeled “food grade” or “pharmaceutical grade,” castor oil can be taken orally as a laxative. Always consult a health professional before internal use.

• Castor Oil Pack: Soak a cloth in warm castor oil, place on the abdomen or area of concern, cover with plastic wrap, and apply heat for 30–60 mins.

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Storage:

• Store in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed bottle.

• Shelf life: ~1–2 years if stored properly.

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Cautions & Contraindications:

• Pregnancy: Not advised to use internally as it may stimulate uterine contractions.

• Allergy: Perform a patch test before topical use.

• Not for infants internally unless under medical advice.

• Raw castor seeds are toxic – never consume or press your own oil without proper processing.

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Allergen & Dietary Info:

• 100% plant-based

• Gluten-free

• Vegan & cruelty-free

• Non-GMO (if sourced responsibly)

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Cultural & Historical Use:

Used in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and ancient Egyptian remedies, castor oil has long been regarded as a multi-purpose healing elixir.