The very thought of this oil makes me queasy. And while you may not enjoy its taste, it’s pretty nutritious. This medicinal concoction is filled with Vitamin E, making it a suitable remedy for a number of other things (which don’t require you to take it orally). It is also packed with proteins, minerals and has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties.
Many believe that Cleopatra used the pale yellow liquid to brighten the whites of her eyes. Castor oil is simple to use and isn’t harsh on your skin, making it an excellent remedy for many different ailments.
As this list will come to show, there are a number of seemingly abnormal uses for this medicine – some of which will surely surprise you!
Topical Uses for Castor Oil
- Arthritis treatment
- Strengthen and grow hair
- Acne treatment
- Skin moisturizer
- Deep cleanser
- Eliminate fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduce swelling and inflammation
- Support lymphatic system
- Increase circulation
- Heal wounds and abrasions
- Relieve menstrual cramps
Oral Uses for Castor Oil
- Relieve constipation
- Clean out intestines before surgery
- Induction of labor
Use it to treat acne
The common skin condition, acne, is a result of impurities accumulating in your pores, causing the skin to become irritated and inflamed. Many of the acne remedies on the market today contain benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, which tend to dry out the skin. Castor oil, similar to using neem oil, is a natural resource that draws out dirt, dead skin cells, excess oils, and bacteria without drying out your skin.
Use it to relieve arthritis pain
To get some relief from pain caused by arthritis, massage castor oil onto those achy joints. For added benefits, create a paste by mixing some castor oil with turmeric or cayenne pepper. Be sure to keep it away from your eyes, particularly if using cayenne pepper.
Use it to promote hair growth
Whether you want thicker hair, or would like to cover up a balding area on your scalp, massage some castor oil into the area for about 6 minutes every day to promote natural hair growth. It can also be used on the eyebrows. For a thicker brow line, just massage a few drops for a couple of minutes every day.
Use it to promote healthy bowels
Ingesting castor oil is a great way to alleviate constipation. On this note, however, caution is advised – the oil does work extremely well as a laxative. Simply mix a teaspoon into orange or cranberry juice each morning to keep your bowels working regularly.
Use it to kill ringworms
A relatively common skin condition, ringworm is caused by a fungus and grows into a ring-shaped, red rash. Studies show that nearly 20 percent of the population has suffered from ringworm at least once in their life. The undecylenic acid found in the castor oil acts as an antifungal agent that kills the infection.
Use it to remove warts and skin tags
To remove unsightly warts and skin tags, opt for castor oil. Just apply the oil to the wart or skin tag every day for a few weeks – you should begin to see the mark disappear. Unfortunately, castor oil will not work on moles, so be sure you know what you are trying to remove before using it.
Use it to relieve calluses and corns
When applied directly to the affected area, castor oil will help get rid of calluses. Simply massage a bit of the oil into the corns to help alleviate the pain and the swelling that they cause. Though it may take a couple of applications, you will see them disappear over time.
Use it to promote healthy skin
One of its lesser-known uses, castor oil works wonderfully at eliminating and preventing wrinkles. It is also ideal for pregnant women – rubbing castor oil onto the skin can help improve elasticity and prevent stretch marks caused by pregnancy. For a youthful glow, just apply it directly to your skin. Castor oil’s miraculous ability to hydrate the skin makes it a perfect remedy for treating cracked heels. It is rich in vitamins, and essential nutrients help to hydrate dry, cracked skin. Simply rub castor oil on your feet, put on a pair of socks, and leave on overnight.
Use it to treat sunburn
With the same cooling sensation as aloe, castor oil is great for alleviating painful sunburns. The ricinoleic acid will protect any blisters that pop up from becoming infected and reduce the inflammation associated with sunburns.
Use it to relieve pain from scratches
To relieve pain from scratches and other abrasions, opt for castor oil. Simply add a few drops to your scratches, allowing the healing properties of the oils to heal them. Castor oil is also a great option for treating ringworm and other fungal ailments.
Use it to relieve sore muscles
Castor oil makes for a wonderful massage oil that can be used to alleviate sore muscles. Just apply it to the affected area and massage. It may also be used as an oil for general massages – due to its Vitamin E content, it is great for your skin.
Use it to treat hemorrhoids
Castor oil is great at shrinking hemorrhoids and alleviating the pain and itching that they cause. Simply soak a cotton ball in the oil and apply it to your hemorrhoids. You may leave the cotton ball for about 15 minutes or so. It is important to note, however, that this only works for hemorrhoids that are outside the body.
Use it to treat insomnia
If you’ve been suffering from sleepless nights of late, castor oil is an effective remedy. Just rub a bit on your eyelids before getting into bed (make sure that you don’t actually get any in your eyes). The castor oil will help bring about a peaceful night’s sleep and will have you feeling refreshed in the morning.
Use it to treat toenail fungus
The undecylenic acid found in castor oil is an active ingredient that is great for relieving fungus in the body. To treat toenail fungus, soak your feet in warm water and Epsom salt for five minutes. Follow the soak by liberally applying castor oil to the affected toenail.
Use it to soothe tired eyes
In removing tiredness from around the eyes, castor oil works much like petroleum jelly. Before you go to bed at night, rub a little around your eyes and just a tad on your eyelashes, allowing the oil to soak in overnight, leaving you looking and feeling a little more refreshed in the morning. Again, just be careful not to get it in your eyes.
Source: Internet & Others
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The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
