Benefits of Castor Oil

Castor oil is known to have many anti-inflammatory benefits.

Castor oil is a type of vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of a castor plant. It has been utilized topically in various cultures for ages due to its potential health and wellness benefits. Let's go over these benefits in more detail, how to use castor oil, and what precautions to take!

What is castor oil?

Castor oil is a vegetable oil extracted from a castor plant's seeds. Castor oil includes ricinoleic acid, which is an omega-9 fatty acid. Omega 9 fatty acids help lower the risk of heart disease, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy blood sugar levels. The origin of this substance dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was widely used as lamp fuel, as well as for medical and cosmetic purposes. Castor oil has a variety of roles in medical, industry, and pharmaceuticals. It can be found in food, medicine, and skincare, as well as in industrial lubricants and biodiesel components for example.

What are the anti-inflammatory benefits of castor oil?

Castor oil is excellent for topical application and contains numerous anti-inflammatory properties. Anti-inflammatory agents reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is the body's reaction to an injury or infection. Prolonged inflammation can lead to damaged cells tissues and organs, which castor oil can help repair. The anti-inflammatory properties of this special oil may also help with bodily aches and pains. Castor oil is thought to enhance lymphatic function, which can boost immunity and help with fat metabolism. Our lymphatic system supplies cells and tissues with proteins and nutrients. If applied topically to the liver and thyroid, castor oil application may be beneficial for detoxification.

What other benefits does castor oil provide?

Castor oil is well-known for its laxative qualities when taken internally; in fact, the FDA has approved it for this use! It works quickly by stimulating muscle movement in the intestines, making it a good choice for temporary constipation treatment or colon cleansing before medical procedures. However, it's not recommended to consume castor oil directly as it can lead to diarrhea, cramping, and dehydration. While it can help with occasional constipation, it should not be used for long-term health issues without first visiting a healthcare professional, as overuse can result in potentially serious adverse effects.

Castor oil is also the active ingredient in the popular go-to Midwives brew, which is a blend of ingredients including castor oil thought to induce labor. If ingested, castor oil can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration, nausea, and, in the case of pregnancy, fetal distress. We do not recommend consuming castor oil. Castor oil has also been used for centuries to help induce labor and delivery. While some research suggests it may be beneficial, others have found it ineffective. If you're pregnant, talk to your doctor before using castor oil.

Castor oil is commonly used in skincare because of its ability to hydrate the skin, reducing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties also make it helpful for those with acne. Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid that is known for its moisturizing effects. It can be used alone or in combination with other oils as a natural substitute for store-bought moisturizers. Unlike commercial products, it contains no toxic chemicals and is safe for both the face and body. However, it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals, so you should always dilute it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and perform a tiny skin patch test before applying it to larger sections of skin.

It can also be applied topically to promote the healing of cuts and scrapes. Castor oil promotes wound healing by maintaining a moist environment and preventing dryness. Venelex, a popular clinical ointment, blends castor oil with Peru balsam, a balm derived from the Myroxylon balsamum tree, to cure wounds. Keep in mind that castor oil topical wound treatments contain a combination of ingredients, not just castor oil. You should not apply castor oil to any wound without checking with a healthcare professional first.

Are there any precautions to be aware of?

Castor oil is often used to treat a variety of ailments. While typically harmless, it may cause side effects in certain people.

If you're considering taking castor oil, keep the following potential effects in mind:

• Medical experts occasionally use castor oil to induce labor in pregnant women. As a result, pregnant women shouldn't consume castor oil at any point.

• While castor oil can help with constipation, it can also produce gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, and bloating. It may also result in dizziness. It should only be used for constipation under physician supervision.

• It may cause an allergic reaction in some people when applied to the skin. First, test a small amount on a small patch of skin to observe how your body reacts.

• It should not be used to treat any medical condition unless advised by a physician. Misusing it can be dangerous. Consult a healthcare professional before using it for any health condition or symptom.

In Conclusion

Castor oil has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy for a wide range of health issues. It can aid with constipation and can also be used to moisturize skin and treat dentures. If you want to use castor oil for constipation or any other health concern, consult with your doctor first to see if it is appropriate and safe for your individual needs.

By: Dr. Megan Stavalone, CACCP

Webster & Perinatal Certified Chiropractor

VBAC Certified Birth Doula

Medical Disclaimer: All of the information in this blog is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used in its place. Please consult with your provider before using castor oil or any adjacent therapies.

Sources: Castor Oil https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31869090/ Castor Oil Plant (Ricinus communis L.) Leaves Improve Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy via Nrf2 Activation https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9294160/