Castor oil isn't just grandma's idea. In fact, castor oil has been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits. Ayurvedic medicine practitioners often look to castor oil to heal the skin and soothe the digestive system. It's made up of almost 90% fatty acids, including ricinoleic acid, which helps promote healthy skin and hair. Additionally, castor oil benefits include the ability to boost the immune system, balance hormones, heal skin infections, and more. (1)
Castor Oil Benefits
1. Improves Immune Function
Yes, castor oil is good when applied to the skin, but it is also used internally. By boosting the immune system and killing harmful bacteria, castor oil can help lower inflammation to prevent infection. How does it do this? Well, one study shows that castor oil may help improve lymphatic drainage and rid the body of harmful toxins. (2)
Another study shows how fatty acids, ricinoleic acid in particular, helps to regulate the body's immune responses. Therefore, castor oil may improve immune function. (3)
2. Boosts Circulation
In addition to improved immunity, castor oil benefits include the ability to naturally boost circulation and improve cardiovascular health. In fact, 90% of castor seed oil is an Omega 9 fatty acid, so it is healthier than industrial fats. "Research has shown that omega-9 fatty acids, commonly referred to as monounsaturated fatty acids, can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke." Therefore, castor oil also benefits heart health. (4)
3. Fights Skin Infections
Castor oil benefits include the ability to fight wounds and skin infections. Because castor oil is easily absorbed through the skin, this helps increase circulation and promote healing. In addition, it works as a natural antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antimicrobial agent to reduce swelling, fight inflammation, and prevent infection. (5)
4. Helps Balance Hormones
Yes, this amazing oil helps balance hormones, too. Castor oil benefits include the ability to balance hormones naturally. For example, it helps enhance the absorption of fat molecules in the digestive tract, which plays an important role in hormone production. And hormones made from omega 9 or omega 3 fatty acids function better in the body than those made from omega 6s. (6)
5. Induces Labor
For centuries, castor oil has been used as a natural remedy to induce labor. It works by speeding up contractions. Thanks to the ricinoleic acid it contains, castor oil benefits include the ability to activate receptors in the uterus that stimulate contractions. (7)
6. Heals Dry, Sunburned, and Acne-Prone Skin
Castor oil works similar to coconut oil when it comes to healing skin conditions. Thanks to its antibacterial properties, castor oil benefits include the ability to fight bacteria that cause acne. To treat acne naturally, try applying castor oil to the affected areas using a cotton swab.
You can also try mixing apple cider vinegar with frankincense essential oil and pure coconut oil. The ingredients will help reduce redness and inflammation while fighting off harmful bacteria.
7. Reduces Nail Fungus, Moles and Cysts
Castor oil can be used as a natural treatment for toenail fungus, as well as moles and cysts. Simply mix a small amount of castor oil with a little bit of baking soda, then apply the mixture to the affected area to kill fungus and bacteria.
8. Relives Constipation
Castor oil benefits include the ability to relieve constipation. When taken orally, castor oil works as a mild laxative. It helps stimulate regular bowel movements while increasing circulation. Castor oil also improves gut health by riding the body of harmful bacteria, which can help reduce cramping, bloating, leaky gut syndrome and IBS. (8)
9. Lowers Symptoms of Arthritis
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, castor oil benefits include the ability to reduce symptoms of arthritis. Massaging painful areas with castor oil can help lower inflammation and reduce pain in joints, muscles, and tissues. In one comparative study, castor oil was found to be as effective as a pharmaceutical without any side effects. (9)
10. Encourages Hair Growth
Similar to the benefits of coconut oil for your hair, castor oil benefits include the ability to encourage hair growth. The fatty acids it contains help stimulate growth and encourage healthier, shinier hair. (10)
