Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the castor plant, also known as Ricinuscommunis, a plant native to Africa and India.
If we think about this oil, it will possibly come to mind as a remedy used by our grandparents as a purgative, but the benefits of this oil go much further.
It is used in various cosmetic products, massage oils, soaps and also medicines, because it offers many benefits for the skin, hair and general health.
Castor oil is a triglyceride, composed of essential fatty acids. 90% of these fatty acids are composed of ricinoleic acid (omega 9). This unique fatty acid is found in lower concentrations in some other seeds and oils (0.27% in cottonseed oil and 0.03% in soybean oil) and is believed to be responsible for the unique properties of castor oil.
It also contains a huge amount of vitamin E, proteins, minerals and has antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It has been the remedy traditionally used to combat all kinds of problems related to the skin and hair.
Let’s see its possible uses:
#1. Facial cleansing:
According to many dermatologists, cleaning with castor oil is an effective method of deep cleaning the pores, toning and hydrating at the same time.
How to use it
It is convenient to mix the castor oil with a lighter oil, such as apricot, olive or jojoba oil and massage the skin of the face in circles for a couple of minutes.
The fatty acids of castor oil will dissolve the remains of grease and dirt that cause blackheads and acne.
To remove the oil we will use a soft microfiber cloth, wet in warm water, drain the excess water and apply it to the face without rubbing, with gentle touches. This will help eliminate makeup, dirt and all substances that contribute to clog pores.
#2. Natural moisturizer and anti-wrinkle:
Castor oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, which penetrate deeply into the skin and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which soften and hydrate the skin.
This helps delay the signs of aging, wrinkles, blemishes and fine lines in the eyes and gives the skin a smoother, younger appearance. Do not abuse because it is a very rich oil, with a couple of drops will be enough for the entire face.
Castor oil is an important component of many cosmetic creams and lotions for its excellent anti-aging properties and we will generally find it in the composition under the name of “castor oil”
#3. Anti-acne:
Ricinoleic acid from castor oil reduces inflammation and helps fight the bacteria that cause acne.
How to use
To treat acne with castor oil, you must first wash your face with warm water to open the pores and then apply the oil over the problem areas. Leave on overnight and wash the next morning. However, care should be taken not to use too much oil as this could cause the opposite effect to that desired: clog the pores and create more problems for the skin.
#4. Reduces stretch marks and scars:
Castor oil contains fatty acids which helps to blur the stretch marks of the abdomen and thighs by providing elasticity to the skin.
The appearance of the scars is also benefited by its use. Fatty acids penetrate the epidermis to the scar layer and erased it while stimulating the growth of new cells. Like most natural remedies, you need time and consistency to see the results, but it is very effective.
#5. Soothing insect bites and sunburn:
The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of castor oil, make it ideal for the treatment of rashes, irritations and insect bites.
It also helps soothe the skin in case of sunburn.
Application
If the affected area is small, you can wet a plaster soaked with castor oil and apply it to the area. For larger areas, wet a cotton or gauze in castor oil and apply directly on the affected area. Leave on for an hour (or overnight for irritations and sunburn) and wash afterwards. Repeat several times during the day to get results faster.
#6. Massage oil:
Castor oil has a large number of health benefits to the body, not only for the skin. It helps relax muscle tension and helps promote blood circulation. These qualities make it ideal to be used in therapeutic massages.
It is a good base oil to dilute essential oils and enhance the effect of massage.
#7. Stimulate the growth of eyelashes:
In case of weak or sparse eyelashes, apply a small amount every night at the root of clean lashes gently until absorbed.
You have to use a very small amount since it is a very dense oil and it spreads a lot, and with care that it does not enter the eyes.
We can also use it in the eyebrows, in case of having them thin or with depopulated zones and we want to stimulate their growth.
#8. Stimulates hair growth:
In the case of hair, it is recommended to warm it up a little before applying it and give a massage on the scalp for about 5 minutes.
It is desirable to repeat this treatment every day and do it before going to sleep, to act overnight and the next morning, remove the oil in the shower.
The oil stimulates blood circulation to hair follicles, allowing faster growth. It is also rich in Omega-9 fatty acid, responsible for the normal state of capillary health.
#9. Contribute to prevent split ends and improve dry or damaged hair:
It will also help to keep the hair in good condition .
Usage
Mix a few drops in our usual shampoo, using a couple of spoonfuls as a half-to-tip mask once a week will keep it healthy and shiny.
Another trick is to apply a couple of drops on the tips as a remedy to repair the split ends.
Read: Powerful hair care tips for every women
#10. Enhances the natural color of hair and prevents gray hair:
Castor oil can make the natural color of our hair look deeper and richer.
This oil is very moisturizing, and when applied, seals moisture inside the hair cuticle, avoiding the loss of pigment, making each hair look thicker and darker.
Usage
After washing the hair, dry it with a towel and divide the hair into sections. Heat slightly one or two tablespoons of castor oil and apply it with your fingers along the hair, rubbing between the palms the separate strands to cover all the hair with the oil.
#11. Nail moisturizer:
It is an excellent cuticle moisturizer.
Usage
Every night, massaging a few drops on the nails of the hands and feet will help us achieve hydrated, strong and healthy-looking nails.
#12. Adjuvant in case of corns and calluses:
Massaging a little castor oil in the calluses will help relieve pain and inflammation caused by their anti-inflammatory action.
You have to be constant but it is a very effective remedy.
Those are my 12 amazing benefits of Castor oil. I hope you enjoy reading through? If so, why not help us reach more other people by sharing the post
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