Table of Content
These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Castor oil falls into category X for pregnant women, so if you’re pregnant you should not take it to induce labor without speaking to your doctor first. You also avoid using it to relieve constipation during pregnancy.
Castor oil and other natural occlusive moisturizers are said to create a barrier on the skin that locks in moisture and prevents dry skin. Based on its use in traditional and alternative medicine, the researchers wanted to further investigate. The dosage of castor oil taken internally depends on what you’re using it for, along with factors like your age, existing medical conditions and response to laxative-type treatments. Studies suggest that many of castor oil’s benefits come down to its chemical composition. It’s classified as a type of triglyceride fatty acid, and almost 90 percent of its fatty acid content is a specific and rare compound called ricinoleic acid.
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Acid, a type of fatty acid shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Of these women, almost 91% had a subsequent vaginal birth with few complications or side effects related to using castor oil. You should follow dosage recommendations from your healthcare provider or as listed on the supplement label. However, while other plant oils have been well investigated for potential skin benefits, castor oil has not. This means that any skin benefits of castor oil have yet to be scientifically proven.
Castor Oil
So we hope you got your answer to “how to use castor oil internally? Unfortunately, even small amounts of castor oil could induce some serious health concerns. We have to first examine the claims that these people are making before we can reach a conclusion of how you can use castor oil for internal use. Research has been mixed regarding the use of castor oil for hair.
It may seem safe since it is primarily plant-based but there is potential danger lurking under the surface. If you take it internally, castor oil’s potent fatty acids can pose health risks. Food and Drug Administration as a way to relieve temporary constipation, but it isn’t suitable for long-term treatment. Use castor oil in small amounts and be sure to consult with your doctor to make sure it’s safe for you. Studies show that castor oil’s ricinoleic acid reduces swelling and pain caused by inflammation. Research suggests that, when applied to the skin, castor oil may reduce arthritis symptoms more effectively than prescription topical treatments.
What Are the Side Effects of Castor Oil?
Has been traditionally used by midwives for the natural induction of labor. However, it is recommended that pregnant people use black cohosh with caution and speak with their healthcare provider before using it. Aside from the lack of evidence, interactions with castor oil may still exist. You should discuss any potential interactions between castor oil and the medications or supplements you're taking with your healthcare provider.
Although it can be used to relieve occasional constipation, castor oil is not recommended as a treatment for long-term health concerns. Because castor oil may help induce labor, pregnant women should avoid it. There is also a lack of research on its effects on infants, children, and breastfeeding women. Castor oil has also been used to help pregnant women with delivery for centuries. In fact, a survey from 1999 found that 93% of midwives in the U.S. used castor oil to induce labor. While further research is needed, one study found that castor oil initiated labor in 91% of women with little to no childbirth complications.
Of course, castor oil is great for your skin, but this healthy oil can be ingested as well. Perhaps some of you were force-fed a spoonful of this oil in your childhood and since then, you’ve never touched the stuff. If you can relate, you’ll be happy to know that your guardian meant well.
We also cover its use as a hair treatment and precautions to consider. Long-term laxative use can cause damage to your digestive system and can even cause electrolyte abnormalities or dehydration. While castor oil can provide occasional constipation relief, you should talk to your doctor to discuss treatment options before consuming it. Check out these 10 best natural products that can replace castor oil.
This article discusses poisoning from swallowing a large amount of castor oil. A common warning is to not use castor oil for more than a week since side effects can be serious with overuse. Cover the oiled cloth with another hand towel or a plastic wrap to prevent oil getting on clothes or furniture. To make your own pack, saturate a piece of flannel and place it over your abdomen or other painful areas.

However, the heating process that castor oil undergoes during production deactivates the ricin, allowing the oil to be used safely. Castor oil is a triglyceride that has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. You can put the oil directly on your skin or take it orally in small amounts. Some people also make castor “oil packs.” Castor oil packs are made of cloth that is soaked in castor oil and applied to affected areas.
Many people mix it with water or another beverage before drinking. While Egyptian doctors are said to have employed castor oil in order to protect the eyes from irritation, not all experts today encourage the use of castor oil in place of eye drops. As it penetrates deep into the skin, it fights bacteria overgrowth that can clog pores, while softening and hydrating irritated skin at the same time.
It is also best to keep castor oil and other supplements out of reach of any children or pets in your home. Ricin is a potent toxin derived from part of the waste mash produced when beans from the castor plant are processed to make castor oil. Ricin is contained in the hull of the bean, which is discarded in the oil manufacturing process.
Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. It also has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and it may help improve skin and oral health. There's only anecdotal proof that you can use castor oil for hair growth. Some people use castor oil for eyelash growth, but no scientific research has shown this is actually effective. One study found that soaking contaminated acrylic teeth in a solution containing 10% castor oil for 20 minutes helped reduce the number of C. Albicans as well as other harmful bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus .
Pure castor oil is also available at many specialty health stores. More than 90% of castor oil’s fatty acid content is ricinoleic acid. Research shows that this omega-9 has pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. When applied to the skin may help relieve issues like joint pain and menstrual cramps. Even if your primary goal isn’t weight loss, you may still be tempted to use castor oil for internal use as a laxative. Patients suffering from constipation related to irritable bowel syndrome may hear this home remedy fairly often.
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