5 Benefits of Castor Oil

1. Powerful Laxative

Perhaps one of the best-known medicinal uses for castor oil is as a natural laxative. It’s classified as a stimulant laxative, meaning that it increases the movement of the muscles that push material through the intestines, helping clear the bowels.

2. A Natural Moisturizer

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid. These types of fats act as humectants and can be used to moisturize the skin. Humectants retain moisture by preventing water loss through the outer layer of the skin. Castor oil is often used in cosmetics to promote hydration and often added to products like lotions, makeup and cleansers.

3. Promotes Wound Healing

Applying castor oil to wounds creates a moist environment that promotes healing and prevents sores from drying out.

Venelex, a popular ointment used in clinical settings to treat wounds, contains a mixture of castor oil and Peru balsam, a balm derived from the Myroxylon tree.

Castor oil stimulates tissue growth so that a barrier can be formed between the wound and the environment, decreasing the risk of infection.

4. Impressive AntiInflammatory Effects

Ricinoleic acid, the main fatty acid found in castor oil, has impressive anti- inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that when castor oil is applied topically, it reduces inflammation and relieves pain. The pain-reducing and antiinflammatory qualities of castor oil may be particularly helpful to those with an inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis.

5. Reduces Acne

Acne is a skin condition that can cause blackheads, pus-filled pimples and large, painful bumps on the face and body.

It’s most common in teens and young adults and can negatively impact self-esteem.

Castor oil has several qualities that may help reduce acne symptoms.

Inflammation is thought to be a factor in the development and severity of acne, so applying castor oil to the skin may help reduce inflammation-related symptoms.