Castor oil is a natural oil that comes from the castor plant, formally known as Ricinus communis. The oil is commonly found in both lubricant and laxative products, including Emulsoil, Laxopol and Fleet Flavored Castor Oil. Castor oil has been used not only as a lubricant, but in the treatment of several skin conditions as well.
The Castor Bean Plant
The castor bean plant is the only plant considered to be a member of the Ricinus genus family, but it is also considered a member of the Spurge family. The plant is native to Africa, but has been transported to other countries around the world. The castor bean plant can now be found in the Pacific Islands, Australia, and in more than 25 states in the US.
The castor bean plant grows very quickly and can grow as tall as 40 feet. In some areas, they’re planted as annuals while in other areas, like New Jersey, they are considered ornamentals that can be planted outdoors in the spring.
The seeds of the castor bean plant contain 50% oil. The oil contains linoleic, dihydroxystearic, oleic, and stearic acids. While it is commonly used to create plastic, soaps, linoleum, wax, candles, ink, and candles, it has also been used for a wide variety of medicinal purposes. Castor oil can and has been used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions.
Castor Oil and the Oil Cleansing Method
The oil cleansing method (OCM) is a popular method for cleansing one's face without the use of commercially manufactured soaps. Those who use the oil cleansing method for a period of time end up with clear skin free of pimples, blackheads, and overactive oil glands.
The method works because oil is dissolved not by water, but by other types of oil. Most people fear that oil will cause the skin to break out, but oil alone doesn't cause problems. Real skin problems are caused by dead skin cells, hormones, and bacteria.
While it is not used alone, castor oil is the main ingredient in the OCM process because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Because it is so thick, the castor oil is usually diluted with another moisturizing oil, such as sunflower seed or extra virgin olive oil, for easier application.
Effects of Castor Oil on the Skin and Scalp
Because of its moisturizing abilities, castor oil is great for softening calluses that have become very thick. Some people slather castor oil on their feet and put on socks before going to sleep at night. The moisture will help to soften your skin while the anti-inflammatory properties will help to soothe the aches and pains associated with being on your feet all day.
Castor oil has been used successfully in the treatment of dry scalp and dandruff, especially in African American and bi-racial children. To treat dry or flaky skin at the scalp, you'll need to massage castor oil into the dry areas. Do this before shampooing your hair. Because castor oil is derived from natural plants, it will not harm your scalp's natural ability to produce oil.
Effects of Castor Oil on Ringworm
Ringworm is a fungal skin condition that many find difficult to treat. Castor oil contains a compound known as undecylenic acid, which has been found helpful in treating this type of fungus. Applying castor oil to the skin for at least an hour each evening may help to clear up your infection naturally. It's best to leave the oil on overnight, if possible.
Castor Oil Safety Considerations
The castor bean seed contains ricin, a toxic poison found in the seed and in some other parts of the plant. While most people are exposed to the oil alone, after it has been extracted from the seed, it is important to remember that there is no reason to touch or ingest castor oil seeds that have not been processed in a safe environment. A single seed contains enough poison to kill a child, and only a few more would offer enough poison to kill an adult.
The use of castor oil to treat eczema, ringworm, acne, and any other skin condition is considered an alternative therapy. Consult with your doctor or physician before attempting to treat any skin condition with castor oil.
References:
- Hair and Skin Care for African American and Biracial Children
- University of Maryland: Castor Oil Overdose Overview
- The Oil Cleansing Method
- Skinverse: Castor Oil
- Home Remedies Web: Castor Oil Health Benefits
- Castor Bean Plant
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