We know it tastes bad, but the health benefits for arthritis and skin problems make it worth holding your nose. Better is that it can be used externally and you don't have to taste a thing.
Castor oil is a light-colored, dense oil that’s extracted from castor seeds (Ricinus communis). As a native Indian product, it’s been used for centuries owing to its powerful antioxidant and healing purposes. Due to these amazing properties, castor oil has been used extensively in cosmetics, massage oils, and more.Castor oil has many uses and benefits!
Arthritis
Arthritis is mainly caused by a poor immune system and inflammation of the body at a cellular level. Castor oil is great for arthritis when used as a massage oil. It helps in reducing soreness and inflammation and in lubricating joints.
How to Use
- Pour some castor oil over a piece of cotton flannel
- Slowly place the flannel on your tummy or the required area
- Put a towel over it and then a hot-water bag on top
- Make sure you don’t burn your skin by directly applying heat over the oil
- Let it stay on for 30–45 minutes
(NOTE: Castor oil is great for helping with arthritis. Here are the 14 best foods to help your arthritis and joint problems. Find it right here.)
Constipation
Castor oil is well known for its laxative effects.
How to Use
- Take a teaspoon of castor oil mixed with orange juice or lemon juice to avoid the bitterness and heaviness of castor oil
- Remember to drink some warm water and to stay home for a few hours. Castor oil works at a slow pace over a period of time. Using too much of it can disrupt your colon and remove the natural flora in it
- Make sure to use castor oil once a month or only when needed. Take in a probiotic to replenish your gut flora as well. Be sure not to ingest too much, and always check with your doctor before trying new foods that affect the body.
Skin Problems
Castor oil works miracles on many skin issues because of its antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Problems such as acne, ringworm, scars, and wounds heal at a faster rate with the application of a little castor oil.
How to Use
- Rinse your skin with some lukewarm water and pat dry
- Take some castor oil and massage into the affected area
- You can let it sit for a while or, using a warm washcloth, wipe it off immediately depending on your need.
Oil Bath
According to Ayurvedic practices, taking an oil bath once a week is considered to be healing, detoxifying and cooling. Taking a castor oil bath cools down your body, lubricates your joints, relaxes your nervous system, and removes the excess lactic acid that’s built up due to immense physical activity.
How to Use
- Using a double boiler, heat up the castor oil to a lukewarm temperature
- Apply it all over your body, including your hair and a little bit on your face
- You can start by leaving it on for 10 minutes and then build up your time
- Wash it off using a soap nut or neem soap (castor oil is tough to remove, rinse twice if needed)
Buying the Right Castor Oil
Castor oil has a toxic content called ricin. When more than is required is ingested, it can lead to fatal conditions. It’s important that you buy food-grade castor oil and a cold-pressed version of it that most health stores carry.
