Dioscorides already knew the purgative properties of castor bean oil in the 1st century A.D.; however, the castor bean plant was not used in Europe until the 18th century.
- Castor bean zanzibariensis plants are an annual green foliage plant which can grow up to 96 inches tall in USDA Zones 3 – 11.
- Ricinus communis, or Castor Bean, known more as Castor oil plant, is a tropical annual that makes quite a stunning presence in the flower garden.
Castor Bean Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name – Ricinus communis L.
- Other Names – Bofareira, castor-oil plant, Mexico seed, oil plant, palma Christi.
- French – Ricin, palma Christi.
- Spanish – Ricino, palmacristi.
- Environment—It is native to tropical Africa and has spread worldwide to warm regions. It is farmed for medicinal purposes.
- Description—A herbaceous plant growing in warm climates, it is a shrub and even tree-like in tropical regions. It belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and has large, palm-shaped leaves and thorny fruit with three seeds inside.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The leaves and the seed oil.
Healing Properties
Castor bean seeds contain around 50 percent oil, ricinine (an alkaloid), and ricin, a toxic glycoprotein that agglutinates red blood cells but remains in the seed’s flesh after extracting its oil.
At the recommended doses, castor bean oil produces a mild purgative effect some two hours after intake. It is non-irritant, with no colic or cramps. It effectively heals any constipation case, even those in children. However, in the case of chronic constipation, we recommend adopting dietary measures as well as employing milder laxative substances. It is also helpful to expel intestinal parasites.
Externally used, both the plant’s oil and seeds have emollient and healing properties. They are applied as lotions and poultices for eczema, herpes, wounds, burns, and skin rashes to fight hair loss.
Warning
An intake of three seeds can cause death to a child and 10 to 15 seeds to an adult person.
How to use Castor Bean
- As a laxative, the dose is 5 to 10 grams of oil for children and 15 to 30 grams for adults, taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Lotion with the oil on the affected skin area.
- Poultices with mashed fresh leaves.
Frequently Asked Question
What are castor bean oil’s primary active compounds, and how do they work?
Ricinoleic acid: The main element of castor oil (nearly 90%), this fatty acid has significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. These effects make castor oil helpful in reducing swelling joint pain, and managing some skin conditions.
Can castor bean oil be used for constipation relief?
Are there scientific studies backing the use of castor oil for skin care?
The moisturizing and anti-inflammatory benefits are why it’s found in many skincare products. There is limited research suggesting it might help manage acne or wound healing. Always do a patch test before widespread use, as it can irritate some.
I’ve heard castor oil can induce labor – is this true?
It’s possible but not recommended. The way castor oil stimulates intestinal contractions can also potentially affect the uterus. However, this method is not medically advised, can be dangerous, and should only be considered under strict medical supervision.
Is it safe to use castor oil around the eyes?
Generally, yes, but with caution. Small amounts of castor oil are sometimes used to promote eyelash growth, and some eye drops for dry eyes are used as lubricants. However, always dilute it and consult a doctor first, as some people experience irritation.
Can castor oil help hair growth or reduce hair loss?
Potentially, but there’s no guarantee. Castor oil’s moisturizing and potentially anti-inflammatory effects might improve scalp health, indirectly aiding hair growth. However, no scientific consensus exists that it directly stimulates growth or prevents breakage.
Are there different types of castor oil?
Yes. While all are cold-pressed from castor beans, they differ in processing:
Pale Yellow: Standard castor oil suitable for most uses.
Jamaican Black: Roasted beans give it a darker color and potentially enhance some properties.
Hydrogenated: Chemically altered for cosmetics where a more solid form is needed.
Does castor oil have any antibacterial or antifungal properties?
Yes, some studies suggest this. Castor oil and ricinoleic acid may fight off certain bacteria and yeast-based fungal infections. More research is needed, but it has potential uses in wound care or managing conditions like athlete’s foot.
Are there significant side effects or risks to using castor oil?
For most people, minimal. Side effects can include nausea, diarrhea, or skin irritation. Long-term oral use is NOT advised. Pregnant people and those on certain medications should avoid castor oil.
Where can I find reliable information on castor oil research?
Reputable medical websites: Mayo Clinic, WebMD, Healthline
Scientific journals: Search databases like PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 531. Print.
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/castor-oil-health-benefits
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/castor-oil
- Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319844
- Health: https://www.health.com/castor-oil-benefits-6827595
Last update on 2024-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API