Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant Ricinus communis. The castor oil plant is primarily grown in Africa, South America, and India. India is actually known as the world leader in castor oil production. The United States and China are the primary importers.
Castor oil is produced by cold-pressing castor seeds and then applying heat. It’s not considered an edible oil, and makes up only a fraction of the world’s vegetable oil production.
Historically, castor oil has been used as an effective laxative. It’s also been used to induce labor. But today, castor oil is widely used as an ingredient in cosmetics. According to a safety review for castor oil, castor oil was used in over 900 cosmetic products in 2002.
Castor oil has many potential benefits. These include:
Preventing wrinkles
Castor oil contains antioxidants that fight free radicals in your body. Free radicals are responsible for accelerating the aging process, making wrinkles appear sooner.
Fighting acne
Castor oil has antibacterial properties. Bacteria on your face can clog pores and lead to acne.
Reducing puffiness
Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and puffiness. It could reduce the size of inflamed pimples or eye bags as well.
Moisturizing
Moisture keeps your skin looking young, shiny, and healthy. Moisture also prevents wrinkles.
Soothing sunburn
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, castor oil may ease the pain associated with sunburn. Its moisturizing qualities may also reduce peeling.
Fighting dry lips
Castor oil is a very common ingredient in both lipstick and lip gloss. If you have dry lips, skip the color and use castor oil. But you may want to mix it with a better-tasting oil, like coconut oil.
Promoting overall skin health
Castor oil is full of healthy fatty acids. Fatty acids are essential to maintaining good skin health.
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