Used by Cleopatra to Brighten Her Eye Whites... What Are the Health Benefits of Castor Oil?

SadaNews - Castor oil is a thick, odorless oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant. Its use dates back to ancient Egypt, where it is believed to have been used as fuel for lamps, in addition to medical and cosmetic purposes. Cleopatra is said to have used it to lighten the whites of her eyes.

Most castor oil produced today comes from India. It is still used as a laxative and in skin and hair care products. It is also an ingredient in motor oil, among other products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration declares it safe for treating constipation, but researchers are still investigating its other potential health benefits.

Castor oil is not edible and has a very unpleasant taste. However, some people take it in small amounts for medical purposes, according to the "WebMD" website. Its most notable benefits include:

Castor oil for constipation

The only health-related use of castor oil approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is its use as a natural laxative to relieve temporary constipation.

The ricinoleic acid present in it is associated with receptors in the intestines, leading to muscle contractions that push stool through the colon.

It is sometimes used to cleanse the colon before procedures such as colonoscopy. However, your doctor may prescribe other laxatives that could yield better results.

Do not use it for long-term relief of constipation, as it may cause side effects such as cramping and bloating.

Castor oil to stimulate labor

Castor oil has been used for centuries to assist during labor and delivery. In fact, a 1999 study found that 93 percent of midwives in the United States used it to stimulate labor. However, while some studies have shown it may be beneficial, other studies have found no effectiveness. If you are pregnant, do not try castor oil without consulting your doctor.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Ricinoleic acid in castor oil may help combat swelling and pain from inflammation when applied to your skin.

Accelerating wound healing

Castor oil has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that may help speed up wound healing, especially when combined with other ingredients.

The oil might help prevent infection by keeping wounds moist, while ricinoleic acid reduces inflammation.

Do not use castor oil on minor cuts or burns at home. It is advised to use it for wound care only in medical clinics and hospitals.

Benefits for the skin

Due to its richness in fatty acids, castor oil has moisturizing effects on the skin. You can find it in many commercial cosmetic products. You can also use it in its natural form, free from fragrances and dyes. Since it may cause skin irritation, try diluting it with another neutral oil.

Some believe that the antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties of castor oil may help in combating acne. However, there is no research evidence to support this.

Castor oil for hair growth

Castor oil is sometimes marketed as a remedy for dry scalp, hair growth, and dandruff. It may moisturize your scalp and hair. However, there is no scientific evidence that it treats dandruff.

In fact, using castor oil on hair may cause a rare condition where hair becomes so tangled that it must be cut.

Are there benefits to applying castor oil on the belly button?

This idea is based on an Ayurvedic treatment that suggests the nearby pituatary gland can absorb substances like essential oils through the navel. However, there is no scientific evidence for the existence of this gland. Therefore, likely, there is no benefit to applying castor oil on the navel.