What it is
Castor oil is the vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the Ricinus Communis plant.
What it does
When castor oil is dry, it forms a barrier on the skin, which protects it from the environmental conditions, like wind, and also has water-binding properties. It draws moisture from the air to the skin. It softens hair and skin and is ideal for dry skin and chapped and dry lips, fingernails and cuticles.
Side effects
It can have a slightly sticky feel on skin.
Skin irritation or allergic reactions are rare, but can occur.
{ 10 comments… read them below or add one }
People are constantly asking us in my store if we sell this. We don’t, but it’s supposed to be very good to hair. Much like olive oil (not the cooking version) or sweet almond oil, you rub it into your hair, wear a showercap overnight, shower it off and it makes yer hair all soft and whatnot.
yes, castor oil is great for hair. It makes them all soft and silky. I also heard that it is supposed to make your hair grow faster but unfortunately that is not true.
Is castor oil carcingenic
Sandra: no, it isn’t.
Actual beautifulwithbrains. Castor oil does make your hair grow fast. I actually use it. My hair had grown an inch in 3 weeks. You should research it a little more.
Emily, thank you for your comment. I did research it and I couldn’t find any scientific studies that proved castor oil can make hair grow so, until then, I’ll remain sceptical. Anecdotal evidence is important too, but it is not as accurate because there are so many variables to consider. It may be that there are other factors that are contributing to your hair growth. Without a proper scientific test, we can’t know for sure. In any case, I’m glad castor oil works so well for you.
Castro oil is good for whats ails you. It does stimulate the hair and it does help it grow faster.
Claretha, thanks for your comment. I believe there is some anecdotal evidence that castor oil makes hair grow faster, but until I see a scientific study confirming it, I’ll remain sceptical. It’s still a wonderful and very beneficial oil though.
Why don’t you try it then
Emily, because at the moment, I’m not interested in making my hair grow faster. In fact, I’m thinking of cutting it!