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.
{ 4 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.