What is castor oil good for?
Cleopatra may well have been right – many users of castor oil claim it softens and soothes the skin and potentially nourishes the hair. It can be used both as a carrier oil in aromatherapy or as a massage oil and is reputed to be an effective laxative.
Health benefits of castor oil include:
- An effective laxative
- Is anti-microbial
- May have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects
- May support healthy skin
- May support healthy hair
- May help wounds heal
Discover our full range of health benefit guides including the benefits of rosemary oil and the benefits of coconut oil.
Nutritional profile of castor oil
Figures per tbsp (15ml) of castor oil:
- 126kcal / 527 KJ
- 0.0g Protein
- 14g Fat
- 0.0g Carbohydrates
- 0.0g Fibre
Castor oil is a rich source of fatty acids, the most abundant being ricinoleic acid (about 90%) as well as lesser amounts of linoleic, oleic, stearic and linolenic fatty acids. It is this fatty acid profile that is thought to be responsible for oil’s moisturising properties. When buying castor oil check the product is labelled ‘hexane-free’, this solvent is commonly used during the extraction process.
6 potential benefits of castor oil
1. An effective laxative
In otherwise healthy individuals, castor oil can be used orally for the relief of occasional constipation when it can be expected to stimulate a bowel movement within 6-12 hours. If you are considering castor oil for this purpose always read the label and check the oil is food grade and has been cold-pressed. Castor oil was originally thought to be toxic because the seeds of the plant contain a toxic protein called ricin, however, we now know that ricin does not separate into the oil, making it a safe and effective option for occasional use. That said, castor oil should not be used regularly or long term and is contraindicated for those with bowel disease. Taken orally it acts as a potent laxative, and as such it may compromise the absorption of prescribed medications. For those who would prefer not to take the oil internally, one 2011 trial looked at the effects of topical administration via a castor oil pack (flannels soaked in oil and applied to the skin). The trial reported that although bowel movements were not increased, the oil may make faeces easier to pass and it appeared to alleviate some of the discomfort associated with constipation.
2. Is anti-microbial
Ricinoleic acid, the predominant fatty acid in castor oil, is said to inhibit the growth of certain microbes including bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Propionibacterium acnes, as well as certain yeasts and moulds. Consequently. laboratory tests have suggested a possible use as a component in denture cleaning products and anecdotal reports suggest the oil may help manage acne and spot outbreaks, that said, caution should be exercised because the oil may clog pores and potentially promote blemishes.
3. May have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects
While there is limited clinical evidence that applying a castor oil pack promotes relief through an anti-inflammatory and analgesic action, many report these packs to be helpful for alleviating menstrual cramps, joint pain and sunburn. One possible explanation for this, as demonstrated by animal models, is that topical application of ricinoleic acid may have a similar effect to that of capsaicin, the anti-inflammatory and analgesic compound found in chilli peppers.
4. May support healthy skin
Thanks to the moisturising effects of ricinoleic acid, castor oil appears to promote hydration, may protect the skin barrier and may potentially soothe inflammatory disorders such as dermatitis and psoriasis.
A 2024 trial that looked at the effect of a cream containing castor oil on reducing infraorbital hyperpigmentation (dark circles under the eyes) reported that the castor oil cream appeared to be an effective treatment. Notwithstanding, these promising findings and the fact that castor oil is approved for use as an ingredient in skincare products and cosmetics, there remains limited research on the oil’s direct application to the skin.
5. May support healthy hair
Despite a long history of use, castor oil has only weak evidence to support its value as a natural hair conditioner and limited evidence to suggest it promotes hair growth. Nevertheless, many users believe it supports the appearance of shiny, smooth hair and can, they believe, help with the appearance of eyebrows and eyelashes too. Others suggest that its use may minimise the damage associated with heat styling tools and alleviate a dry and flaky scalp.
6. May help wounds heal
A 2018 animal study found ricinoleic acid may promote wound healing, these effects may be thanks to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Potential side effects
Oral use of castor oil should be avoided during pregnancy because it may induce contractions, and during breastfeeding because its effects on the infant are not fully understood. Furthermore, oral administration presents an increased risk of adverse effects for the older population because kidney and heart function may be impaired. Castor oil should only be used as directed because when consumed in quantity it may result in severe nausea, vomiting and colic. Avoid use late in the day as the effects of the oil are likely to disrupt sleep.
When using topically for the first time, do a skin patch test, this is important because some people may experience a reaction including contact dermatitis. If this is relevant to you, be sure to check labels because many skin, hair and make-up products contain castor oil.
Overall, is castor oil healthy?
Many allude to castor oil’s benefits but to date the evidence remains limited. However, when used appropriately such as a short-term remedy for constipation or as a moisturiser for skin and hair, it may be useful. If you are considering it for oral administration and you are pregnant or breastfeeding, elderly or on prescribed medication you should check first with your GP to ensure it is safe for you to do so.
Enjoyed this? Now try…
Eat these dietary fats to improve your skin
What to eat for healthy hair
Is olive oil healthy?
Are seed oils bad for you?
Is sunflower oil healthy?
Kerry Torrens BSc. (Hons) PgCert MBANT is a BANT Registered Nutritionist® with a post graduate diploma in Personalised Nutrition & Nutritional Therapy. She is a member of the British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine (BANT) and a member of the Guild of Food Writers. Over the last 15 years she has been a contributing author to a number of nutritional and cookery publications including Good Food.
All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information.