Castor oil is a natural oil made from castor seeds (Ricinus communis). The castor beans (technically seeds) are pressed into a versatile, pale yellow vegetable oil with a very distinct taste and smell. The main component of castor oil is ricinoleic acid, a type of fatty acid proven to have anti-inflammatory properties and has long been used in traditional medicine.
Castor oil has a soothing effect and helps smooth flaky skin. It can also form a barrier on the skin, protecting against moisture loss. For hair, it acts as a conditioner and coating to improve smoothness and shine.
Benefits of castor oil
Due to its many benefits for the skin, castor oil is a popular ingredient in massage oil. Here are some of its advantages:
- Anti-inflammatory: Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties, making it highly suitable for treating irritated skin.
- Antimicrobial: Castor oil helps protect against bacterial infections by keeping out microbes that can cause diseases.
- Moisturizing: Castor oil contains triglycerides, which help retain moisture in the skin, making it effective against dry skin.
- Hydration: Castor oil has humectant properties, meaning it can draw moisture from the air into the skin, keeping it hydrated.
- Cleansing: The triglycerides in castor oil also serve another function—they are effective in removing dirt from the skin.
