Castor Oil – The Old-Fashioned Therapy Making a Modern Comeback

Castor oil, the good old fashioned powerhouse remedy used at home by many generations including our grandparents for all things from constipation to help going into labour… is also now the new kid on the block again. But this time it’s being marketed as a jack of all trades…

But what really is Castor oil used for?

I get asked this question all the time, in the salon and on the road. It seems in just one, maybe two generations the uses and benefits of Castor oil have fallen off the band wagon and been forgotten.

With the use of pharmaceutical products that are cheap and widely marketed the good old-fashioned remedies of old have been replaced with convenience. But not so when it comes to Castor oil. This cult classic is fast becoming a favourite staple in everyone’s home again and here’s why…

Castor Oil and Its Benefits

It’s a strong, and viscous oil rich in Ricineolic acid, Oleic acid, Linoleic acid (omega 6 fatty acid) a-Lineolienic acid (omega 3 fatty acid) and Stearic acid and Pamitic acid…what a mouth full…

Which makes it not only hugely moisturising and hydrating it will also penetrate deeper than any other oil. As a carrier oil it helps to carry other herbs and essential oils to deeper parts of the body including deep tissue, scar tissue, and organs. Making this oil a very valuable remedy to keep in the cupboard at home.

Why Do You Want Your Castor Oil to Penetrate Deep into the Tissue?

Because of this fun fact, your grandmother could use Castor oil to help detox the liver after a long winter of too many whiskeys or wine. By creating a Castor oil pack with a clean flannel and hot water bottle, Castor oil would penetrate deep into the liver to help break down the fatty tissue deposits and stimulate bile flow.

It has been known to help break up kidney stones, gallstones, and even bone spurs. Because of the deep penetrating effects of Castor oil it can help with softening stools in constipation and heal inflammation and cleanse the colon.

How Can Castor Oil Benefit Women?

Castor oil has been used traditionally to break up fibroids, PCOS, endometriosis, cysts, lumps and inflammation and assist with heavy periods.

I can safely say from my own experience that the regular use of Castor oil wraps and packs on my uterus has shortened the length of my bleed during my cycle. I don’t have pain like I used to and I am not living on painkillers at that time of the month.

Its anti-inflammatory effects are legendary and are being talked about out publicly to help support sisters in their menstrual battles with inflammation and our everyday lifestyles.

What About Castor Oil for My Skin?

Due to the richness in Ricineolic acid and carrying the Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, Castor oil is very nourishing and lubricating to the skin, softens the skin and minimises pores.

It is anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory so it’s wonderful to use on sensitive acne prone teenage skin.

It’s high in Vitamin E and antioxidants and can be used on the eyes to heal irritated skin due to allergies, redness and swelling and to lubricate dry eyes after long days in front of a screen.

It makes an effective and cheap great anti-wrinkle remedy, just ask grandma!

What Then Is a Castor Oil Pack?

A Castor oil pack is when you take a clean flannel, towel or a specifically designed Castor oil wrap and apply generous amounts of Castor oil to one side and apply it directly to the skin where the pack is required.

This could be over the liver area, the womb area, knee etc…

Then put a fresh hot water bottle or heat pack directly over the clean side of the flannel or towel or Castor oil wrap. Leave it on for 15-30 mins to penetrate the required area.

Keep repeating this daily for a few weeks to see the best results.

What Is the Difference Between a Castor Oil Pack and a Castor Oil Wrap?

A Castor oil pack is generally home made using a clean towel or flannel that you may have on hand. Sometimes, just a face washer or strong cotton material will do the trick.

A Castor oil wrap is a specifically designed product that has absorbent, waterproof material on one side, usually the outside part of the wrap, with cotton or soft material on the inside of the wrap to hold the castor oil against the skin of the required body part that needs the Castor oil.

Some Castor oil wraps have belts, elastic or ribbon ties to hold them in place with the Castor oil.

What Are the Benefits of Castor Oil on My Hair and Scalp?

Castor oil is full of antioxidants and Vitamin E, so it helps keep the hair supple and moisturised and boosts keratin.

The Omega 3 and 6 helps to increase circulation to the scalp and therefore stimulate hair growth.

It’s antibacterial and antifungal, which can help fight dandruff, scalp infections and folliculitis. It’s linked to balancing the pH levels of the scalp.

By nourishing the hair shaft it can help prevent breakage at the root and help encourage and strengthen new growth.

It helps to reduce inflammation, prevent infections and create an environment for strong, healthy hair growth.

How Do I Use Castor Oil on My Hair?

Castor oil can be applied to all the hair length or just the scalp.

Because Castor oil is a viscous oil It can be quite messy to apply but when you have done it a few times it will become easier to manage.

It can be applied to the fingertips and massaged into the scalp and left on overnight or rubbed through the lengths of the hair and massaged into the ends and left in a plait for long hair to soak in and nourish the ends of the hair.

The longer the hair, the older the ends are, I always say that they need to be treated like an old lady. Ha!

How Do I Use the Castor Oil on My Scalp as a Castor Pack?

By applying Castor oil generously to the scalp and massaged in to prevent it from running down your face and neck, put a shower cap or swimming cap over the top to keep all the hair up and out of the way.

Leave for as long as comfortable, overnight is good if you can bear it.

Is Castor Oil Safe to Use on My Children?

Yes, castor oil packs can be helpful with constipation, detoxing and indigestion.

It makes a great moisturiser for the skin with sensitive skin babies, heals rashes and dry skin.

Also great for cradle cap, and a great vehicle for massaging the feet with essential oils like lavender to promote deep sleep.

Ready to try Castor Oil?

We have a range of castor oil sizes for you to choose from…

Soul Sister Box and Hair Care Box coming soon!