Castor oil is extracted from a medicinal plant known as Mamona, Carrapateiro or Bafureira and can be used to treat arthritis, dandruff, constipation and promote hydration of the skin and hair.
Its scientific name is Ricinus communis and can be found in some natural products stores and manipulation pharmacies under the name of Laxol, which costs on average R $ 20.00. Learn more about castor oil (Laxol).
Benefits of castor oil
Castor oil has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and laxative properties. In addition, this oil is rich in linoleic acid, vitamin E, fatty acids and minerals, possessing great power of cleansing and hydration of the skin and scalp, for example. So the main benefits of using castor oil are:
- Moisturizing the skin, ensuring a softer appearance, due to the elimination of free radicals and stimulation of the production of elastin and collagen, delaying the appearance of expression lines;
- Hydration of the scalp and fight against falling and breaking of the threads;
- Regulation of the bowel because of its laxative property, and can be used to treat digestive problems, such as constipation, for example;
- Prevention and control of bacterial or fungal infections due to their antimicrobial capacity;
- Fight against dandruff and lice ;
- Decreased pain and discomfort caused by arthritis, arthritis and gout, for example, since it is analgesic and anti-inflammatory;
In addition, castor oil can be used to treat itching, rashes, warts and migraines.
Currently, castor oil is being used primarily to improve hair health, promote its growth and keep it hydrated. Although results related to hair growth and oil use have been described, there are no scientific studies to prove this effect. Find out the best homemade mask to moisturize each type of hair.
How to use
Castor oil is extracted from castor leaves and seeds and is used according to its purpose:
- To moisturize the hair: Castor oil can be applied directly to the scalp or placed in a mask for hydration;
- To moisturize the skin: The oil can be applied directly to the skin, gently massaging it;
- To treat constipation: Take 1 tablespoon castor oil per day;
- To Treat Gallbladder Stone: It is recommended to take 25 mL of Castor Oil after dinner - see other home remedy options for gallbladder stone.
Side effects
The indiscriminate use of castor oil can cause severe cramps, nausea, vomiting and dehydration. In addition, if applied in large amounts on the skin or scalp, it may cause irritation or lead to blemishes if the area is exposed to the sun for a long time.
Castor leaves and seeds are toxic and should only be used under medical supervision
The use of castor oil is contraindicated for young children, people who have irritable bowel and intestinal obstruction, infants and pregnant women, since this oil can induce labor.
