Castor oil has been used for medicinal purposes since a long, long time. It also finds a place in the industrial sector because of its lubricating property and viscosity. However, its list of usage does not end here, and in fact, it can be used in so many different ways that it finds a place in almost every household. Let us now discover top 10 Castor Oil Uses: Some awesome reasons why everyone is using this oil and you also should if you are not already.
10. Ease muscle soreness
Castor oil is a warm oil that helps promote the fluid circulation in the body. It is perfect to be used as massage oil, and if you have overworked muscles that have caused soreness then this oil can certainly help relieve the same. All you need to do is take some oil, apply it on the aching area and rub it in. You can add a few drops of peppermint or chamomile oil to one tablespoon of castor oil and enjoy an even better and relaxing massage.
9. Helps in hair growth
Massaging your scalp with this wonderful oil will definitely promote hair growth. Heat the oil until it is warm, and then apply it on your scalp with the help of your fingertips. Make sure you follow this process at least 2-3 times a week at night and then wash off next morning. If you do this regularly, you are sure to notice results in just a few weeks. If you are not happy with your eyebrow growth then you can apply a little castor oil on your eyebrow with the help of a cotton swab every night, and wash it off the next morning. Very soon you will enjoy dense hair growth in this area.
See also; Top 10 Healthy Hair SuperFoods.
8. Cures fungal infection
Castor oil also has fungicidal properties because of which you can use it to cure common fungal infections like tinea cruris, athlete’s foot, and ringworm. It creates a similar effect like the azole drugs which are commonly used to cure fungal infections, but it does not pose any risk of side effects. You just need to heat the oil and let it reach a temperature where it is warm to touch. Apply this warm oil on the affected area and let it stay overnight. Follow this procedure for a week and you should see significant results.
7. Enjoy better hair color
Castor oil easily enhances the natural hair color making it look thick and rich. Since this oil is a humectant, it locks in moisture, and thus when applied to the hair, it makes each strand look darker and thicker. To enjoy the results you simply need to dampen your hair slightly and then apply the oil to your scalp and let it stay overnight. Wash your hair the next day like you normally do.
See also; 10 Interesting Ways to Use Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
6. Moisturizes skin deeply
If you have dry skin then castor oil can prove to be your best friend. Since the oil is very viscous it penetrates into the skin tissue properly and nourishes it with its fatty acids. First, rub a little oil in between your palm and then apply it on your body. This will help a little oil go a long way. You can also combine it with coconut oil for easier application.
5. Helps you sleep better
A good night’s sleep is very important for your overall health. However, if you find it difficult to sleep well, then before using any medications, give castor oil a try. Most people who apply this oil around their eyes or on their scalp have reported enjoying a better night’s sleep. So, either give yourself a head massage with this oil or apply a little bit of it on your eyelids and you are sure to sleep better.
4. Spot treatment for your skin
You can use this amazing oil to treat warts, skin tags, and acne. Wherever you have these skin problems just dab a tiny amount of castor oil with the help of a cotton swab and allow it to stay at least for a few hours before washing it off. It will be ideal to leave it overnight to enjoy best results.
3. Use it as a preservative
Because of its anti-fungal properties, castor oil has gained a popular place in the food industry. Many dried pulses and grains are coated with this oil when they need to be stored for long. If you too are stocking such foods for emergencies and do not want to use chemical preservatives, you may use castor oil instead.
See also; 10 Different Ways To Use Coconut Oil.
2. Make your mascara at home
Just three ingredients – charcoal powder, beeswax, and castor oil can help you make a perfect mascara. You just need to take a double boiler and melt one tablespoon of beeswax in it. Once it melts, take it off the boiler and add 2 tablespoons of castor oil. Next, add charcoal powder (or cocoa powder if you want brown color) and mix it well and your mascara is ready to use.
1. Cures skin problems on pets
Cats and dogs often lick their wounds and areas on their skin that has become infected. This can further enhance the condition and thus must be stopped. You can apply a little castor oil on the infected area and it will help heal the place quickly. Furthermore, your pets are not going to like the smell and will thus not lick it off. Even if they do, it will just cause loose stools to a maximum. However, it will be a good idea to share this idea with your veterinarian before following.
See also; 10 Essential Puppy Products Every Dog Owner Should Have.
These reasons sure are enough to lure you into getting yourself a bottle of castor oil right away, and if you already have one, you now know in how many different and helpful ways you can start using it right away.