Castor oil is one of Mother Nature’s best offerings for hair maintenance and rejuvenation. It’s a wholly organic substance rich in proteins, minerals, amino acids, omega fatty acids and vitamin E. Castor oil is a derivative of the plant that shares its name, the oil is extracted from its beans and seeds. Castor oil enjoys a long history as a multi-purpose aid and a reputation as an antibacterial and antifungal.
Common Uses
Castor oil treats hair by addressing problems with moisture, circulation and integrity. Castor oil is used during scalp massages and overnight leave-in treatments. When used with a water-based hair product, castor oil acts as a natural moisture sealant. Its omega-6 fatty acids prevent dryness of the scalp which is necessary for stronger, thicker hair, but it must be used regularly.
Castor oil is an integral component of many shampoos and hot oil treatments as a rejuvenator. It’s usually left in for hours or overnight to hasten maximum penetration of its nutritive palette into the epidermis. These applications can be considered medicinal and in some cases interventional. Castor oil’s primary function is to restore and preserve hair resiliency which results in it becoming firmer and longer.
Castor Oil’s Role in Circulation
Circulation is another overlooked factor in hair growth and maintenance. Often falling hair or thin, brittle hair owes to insufficient nourishment as a result of lessening or poor scalp circulation. Hair follicles starve like any other part of the body.
Castor oil is recommended to women who suffer hair loss or alopecia because it has restorative properties. When blood flow to the follicles is stimulated, hair’s anagen or growing phase is shortened. By halting the quickening towards the telogen or resting phase, and subsequent shedding, one can enjoy a fuller head of hair.
More Benefits
Hair loss is also caused by folliculitis, cellulitis, piedra and ringworm. Physicians jump to prescribe antibiotics for these problems, an action that comes with some side effects of its own. Castor oil’s antifungal and antibacterial qualities lend a hand in these cases with regular applications. Needless to say, castor oil also puts the kibosh on dandruff.Castor oil is one of the best topical treatments for this. Many cultures like the Egyptians and Indians exploited castor oil’s various uses and enjoyed its benefits for centuries. As a natural substance with no side effects, there’s no reason to avoid it when it exists to heal, restore and maintain. Meanwhile, your hair continues to break or fall out.
Castor oil’s curative properties benefit the skin all over, not just the scalp. Those who use it enjoy a thicker, fuller, longer, darker and shinier head of hair. Have you or someone you know used castor oil? Have you seen the results? Let us know.