Castor oil: Amazing health benefits

This article throws light on castor oil and its numerous benefits and uses.

By: Editorial Team | | Updated: April 18, 2016 1:29 pm

Read this in Hindi. Also Read - Try castor oil for acne free skin during summer

Castor oil can be characterised as a yellow liquid that is extracted from castor seeds, scientifically referred to as Ricinus Communis. It contains important antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which have made it popular for use over the years. Therefore, by using it in proportion, you can reap the medical and therapeutic benefits it possesses. Also Read - 15 health benefits of methi or fenugreek seeds and leaves

Also, it should be noted that most of its benefits stem from the fact that it contains unsaturated fatty acids. While it may be true that it does have a displeasing taste and strong odour, it is still used in a many products – soaps, cosmetics, massage oils, and textiles, among others. Also Read - What is bentonite clay and what are its health benefits?

Listed below are some of health benefits associated with castor oil:

Helps improve immunity

Those who follow naturopathy ardently are aware that castor oil can effectively help improve the immune system. It helps increase white blood cells, thereby helping your body fight infections.

Castor oil is also known to increase the T-11 cell (a kind of white blood cell) count, in addition to producing lymphocytes in the blood after it is applied. Therefore, the oil stimulates the body to manufacture antibodies in order to combat viruses, bacteria as well as cancer cells.

Aids in inducing labour for pregnant women

Castor oil can also be administered orally to most pregnant women who have reached full term of pregnancy. The oil helps induce labour by exerting pressure on uterus contraction, say leading gynaecologists. The oil contains ricinoleic acid which activates EP3 prostanoid receptor in the uterus, making delivery an easier and smoother process.

However, it should be noted that administering castor oil is not recommended in a majority of cases as it has a strong smell, making most women feel nauseous.

Helps get rid of cysts and moles

Castor oil can be applied with a bit of baking soda on the area which has been affected by a mole or cyst as it helps in removing it effectively within minutes.

Also, take note of the fact that a topical application of the oil can help dissolve cysts and corns effectively because it contains certain qualities which treats the infection from within.

It is also believed that castor oil can help dissolve ovarian cysts. This is because castor oil contains fatty acids which are absorbed by the skin quite easily. Therefore, it works from within ^[1].

Helps with constipation

You can also consume castor oil as it is an effective laxative when digested orally. The oil helps release ricinoleic acid, which is present in the intestine. After releasing the acid, it works well as a laxative. Castor oil contains quite a lot of heat, which is assimilated to stimulate digestion also helping cleanse your internal system through proper bowel movement.

Helps treat joint pains

If you are currently suffering from joint pains which make it difficult to move, you can make use of castor oil. The oil can be used effectively to treat arthritis, since it contains anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it can be used as a massage oil to relieve joint pains, which can cause discomfort in addition to sore muscles and inflamed nerves ^[2].

You can heat castor oil and use it to massage the joint. You could also place it in a hot water bag and keep it on the joint to get relief. If you are suffering from arthritis, you can repeat this process at least twice a week to ensure effective and healing results.

How to use castor oil for health purposes?

For joint pains and arthritis

In order to experience relief when suffering joint pains or arthritis pain, you can soak castor oil in a cotton fabric cloth. Squeeze the excess oil out and apply the cloth to the joint that is affected. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on it. Keep it on for close to an hour. You can store the oil pad in the fridge by placing it in a bag for reuse. Continue with this treatment twice a week for two weeks.

For skin problems

In order to get rid of skin problems like warts, fungal or yeast infections or even acne, add castor oil dipped in cotton on the skin. Let it stay on the skin for about an hour before washing your face off. Continue this routine at least twice a day.

References:

[1] Beckles Willson N, Elliott TM, Everard ML. Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oils) for cystic fibrosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2002;(3):CD002201. Review. Update in: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2007;(4):CD002201. PubMed PMID: 12137649.

[2] Basisht, G. K., Singh, R. H., & Chandola, H. (2012). Management of rheumatoid arthritis (Aamavata) using symbiohealth healthcare system. Ayu,33(4), 466–474. doi:10.4103/0974-8520.110513

Photo source: Getty images

Published : November 29, 2014 3:09 pm | Updated:April 18, 2016 1:29 pm

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