Castor Seed
Castor seed oil is derived from the bean of the Ricinus communis plant. Castor seed produces a thick, highly viscous oil that doesn’t break down easily. Essentially, it’s a sturdy, natural lubricant, and because of that, there are a ton of medicinal uses.
This natural oil has a range of medicinal uses and is used internally for the gut and externally as a topical remedy.
What is castor seed oil?
Castor seed oil, obtained from the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis), has a long history of use in various cultures, dating back to ancient civilizations. Known for its incredible hydrating properties, this natural oil has gained popularity in the skincare industry.
Castor seed oil is known to help constipation because the oil moisturizes and soothes the digestive tract. Castor seed naturally contains ricin, which causes organ damage.. so I recommend sticking to external remedies.
How does castor seed help skin?
1. Hydrating but lightweight
2. Regulates oil production
3. Hair hydration and growth
Castor seed oil has emollient properties make it an excellent remedy for dry and irritated skin conditions. Increased hydration, especially from a lightweight oil, can immensely help the skin stay plump; and emollients are lightweight but seal the skin effectively - think of castor as the vaseline of plant oils.
Castor oil can help relieve inflammatory skin conditions like dry patches, eczema, or dermatitis - it also helps soothe itching, reduce redness, and calm irritation.
Castor seed oil's high content of fatty acids, especially ricinoleic acid, makes it an excellent moisturizer for the skin. When applied topically, it penetrates deep into the skin, nourishing and hydrating the cells from within. The oil forms a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss, leaving the skin supple, soft, and well-hydrated (1).
Castor also has natural plant antioxidants, which reduce oxidative stress (that can look like dull or dry skin) The oil stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, essential proteins responsible for maintaining the skin's elasticity and firmness (1).
Although castor oil is thick, it is also a low-comedogenic oil that can help moisturize skin without triggering a reaction or breakout. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help prevent bacteria growth, reduce inflammation, and control excess oil production.
How can I use castor seed in my routine?
Castor seed oil is viscous, so you can use it to boost hydration, which can combat aging and soothe inflammatory or reactive skin conditions. Castor is just one way to hydrate the skin, but it is an effective, natural, and low-cost option!
You can add castor seed oil to your conditioner or as a scalp treatment. One of my favorite DIY recipes is a mix of castor seed and a few drops of rosemary oil applied to the scalp 15 minutes before washing. Always do a patch test in case of an unknown sensitivity!
1. Patel, Vinay R et al. “Castor Oil: Properties, Uses, and Optimization of Processing Parameters in Commercial Production.” Lipid insights vol. 9 1-12. 7 Sep. 2016, doi:10.4137/LPI.S40233