Castor oil is one of those ancient home remedies. Growing up, you might have been force-fed a spoonful before bed. It also made perfect sense! This oil is used to treat nausea, relieve constipation, and stimulate the lymphatic system. On the hair, the benefits are even better.
What Is Castor Oil?
The castor plant, Ricinus communis, can be found in tropical areas like India and Eastern Africa. Castor oil is extracted from the seeds. It’s sticky, thick, translucent, and pale yellow. The oil is also practically odorless, but the flavor isn’t pleasant. Aside from its famous laxative effect, castor oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.1 These benefits come from its active component, ricinoleic acid. It’s also why castor oil is about to be your new favorite hair product.
What Does Castor Oil Do For The Hair?
1. Controls Dandruff
If you can’t seem to get rid of those pesky white flakes, try castor oil. It targets multiple possible causes of dandruff. Is your scalp too dry? Castor oil will add and retain moisture. Its anti-inflammatory properties will also control seborrheic dermatitis, an inflammatory skin condition that causes dandruff.
Sometimes, the reason behind dandruff is an overgrowth of the fungus Malassezia globosa. And as an anti-fungal remedy, castor oil can help that as well.2
2. Prevents Hair Loss
Balding is linked to high levels of prostaglandin D2 synthase, or PTGDS.3 However, inhibiting PTGDS can actually treat hair loss! And according to a 2015 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, ricinoleic acid can do just that.4 Remember, this is the active compound in castor oil. It’s a great reason to swap out those harsh chemical products.
3. Conditions Hair
The thick consistency of castor oil makes it an excellent conditioner. All you need is a tiny amount for a full hair treatment. Struggling with frizzy strands? Castor can help that, too. The sticky consistency will actually prevent stray strands from sticking up, one of the biggest problems of frizziness.
How To Use Castor Oil For The Hair
Castor oil works great on its own. If you want even more benefits, make one of these natural hair serums.
DIY Anti-Frizz Hair Serum
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons castor oil
- 2 tablespoons argan, grapeseed, or jojoba oil
- 5 drops vitamin E oil
- 5 to 10 drops essential oils for scent
Directions:
- Add all of the ingredients in an amber bottle.
- Mix well.
- Massage 2 to 3 drops between the palms of your hands. Apply evenly throughout your strands.
DIY Hair Growth Serum
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons castor oil
- 2 tablespoons argan, grapeseed, or jojoba oil
- 5 drops rosemary oil
- 5 drops peppermint oil
Directions:
- Add all of the ingredients in an amber bottle.
- Mix well.
- Part your hair and add 1 or 2 drops to your scalp. Massage.
- Make another part, and repeat. Do this 2 or 3 times total.
DIY Anti-Dandruff Serum
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons castor oil
- 5 drops
Directions:
- Add all of the ingredients in an amber bottle.
- Mix well.
- Massage 2 or 3 drops into your scalp.
Apply these serums at night. Castor oil can get on furniture or bed sheets, so consider wearing a shower cap to sleep. In the morning, wash out with shampoo and water.
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