Hair problems are a universal problem, you can say! We will find hardly anyone who does not have hair or scalp problems. There are multiple and expensive products that we used with absolutely no results. Hence, in recent years more and more beauty enthusiasts have begun praising natural remedies that have more benefits and fewer side to no side effects.

Castor oil is one of the best home remedies that might help with hair issues. Yes, castor oil! We have heard this oil since childhood, granny’s favourite oil for many problems. Castor oil offers a gamut of health and beauty benefits, both of which transcend a superficial level and offer medicinal gain, sorting out any problem from the root. 

Castor oil is commonly used as a laxative. But castor oil’s natural antiviral and antimicrobial properties are beneficial for skin health. It is essential for hair growth too.

What is Castor Oil?

Researchers have found the use of castor oil to not only reduce hair fall but provide lustre as well. Castor oil is known for its age-old traditional benefits for hair growth. Regular use of castor oil in combination with coconut oil may enhance the volume of hair.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

Castor oil is also known as Ricinus communis, is a nutrient-rich vegetable oil that comes from castor beans. Although, it originates in tropical east Africa. It is widely used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes in India and the West Indies. 

Castor oil is usually clear or pale yellow. However, when it is derived through roasting or boiling, it is known as black castor oil. There are several varieties of castor plants. However, while the oil has benefits, the seeds and beans are poisonous and can sometimes even be deadly, so ingesting these should be avoided. 

Benefits of Castor Oil for Hair

Castor oil is known for its pH balancing, anti-dandruff qualities, saving you from tangled hair and dryness, and bringing a cooling result to hair. For ages, castor oil has been serving as a shield against dirt and impurities and protecting the hair from damage. I strongly recommend the regular use of castor oil to keep your tresses lustrous and healthy.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

1: Hydrate and moisturize your hair strands

 Like other natural oils, castor oil provides hydration to your hair and scalp. It is rich in essential amino acid – ricinoleic acid that is a natural emollient for the hair. It is also rich in Omega 6 and Omega 9 fatty acids, which fortify the hair with moisture. Castor oil helps trap moisture and natural oils in the hair, sealing it into the strands.

2: Healthy and shiny hair 

Castor oil is a natural conditioner that keeps your hair healthy, shiny, and soft. This oil contains amounts of oleic and linoleic acids and can restore normalcy to hair. When massaged this oil, helps in increasing blood circulation that improves hair growth. Castor oil has emollient properties making it ideal for dry and damaged hair.

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3: Has antibacterial and antifungal properties 

Scalp infections are common in the rainy and winter season. Poor hygiene of the scalp may increase the risk of getting scalp infections that cause dandruff, itching, eruptions, etc. The application of castor oil to the scalp ensures that you inhibit and arrest the growth of several bacterial and fungal infections that may plague scalp health. 

Castor oils can reduce inflammation. It may be an effective treatment for dandruff caused by seborrhoeic dermatitis and eczema.

Also Read: Peppermint Oil For Hair: A Research-Backed Guide To Benefits And Usage

4: Rich in vitamin E 

Castor oil is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids that are beneficial for hair health. Castor oil also helps with protein synthesis that ensures that your hair has a normal growing and resting cycle. It makes hair shiny and reduces excessive hair loss. 

5: Boost hair growth 

Your scalp has hair follicles. So how you nourish it and how healthy it is has a direct impact on your hair follicle health. Poor hygiene and hydration may lead to dead hair follicles and dry scalp. If you have a dry scalp, then daily scalp oiling is a must, and those with oily scalps can get it done once or twice a week. Massaging the scalp with castor oil can also increase blood circulation and boost hair growth. Apply warm oil for better results. 

Also Read: Canola Oil vs Vegetable Oil: Which is Healthier?

Other Benefits of Castor Oil –

• Natural moisturizer
• Great laxative that treats constipation
• Promote wound healing
• Reduces acne
• Treats wrinkles

Read more about: 5 Ayurveda Herbs That Are Great For Hair Growth!

Precautions With Castor Oil

While it is considered safe in most cases, there are a few things you need to be mindful of if you plan on using castor oil. 

• Castor oil is sticky by itself, with a fragrance that most people do not like. It is best to dilute castor oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oils. This will make the application process easier as well as cut down on the unpleasant smell. 
• Like most oils, castor oil will eventually go rancid, be sure to check the expiry date on your bottle before using it.
• Castor oil is a staining substance, it can leave permanent stains on clothing so use caution when you apply it to your hair. 
• You may need multiple rounds of shampooing to remove all traces of this oil from your hair.
• If you plan on using castor oil for hair growth, keep in mind that there is very little scientific data backing most of the hair growth claims. It may or may not work, depending on each case. The potential castor oil benefits for hair come from its healthy constituents like fatty acids and antioxidants. These may improve hair health, but this has not yet been confirmed in clinical studies. 
• If you are experiencing extensive hair loss, using castor oil may not help with it. You may have an existing condition that results in poor hair health. In this case, you’ll need to speak with a doctor or dermatologist for help in curing the underlying causes, rather than use products to combat your symptoms. 

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