Most of us may be sceptical about using castor oil on our skin or hair, owing to its densely viscous texture and distinct odour. However, its miraculous properties are what makes holistic naturopaths and modern dermatologists vouch for it. From Helen Mirren to Malaika Arora and Hailey Beiber, this golden elixir is a global favourite for people of all ages.
With India being the largest producer of castor beans in the world, it has been a staple in our mother and grandmother’s kitty when it comes to for hair and skin concerns. Additionally, it is also used in the many cosmetics like soaps, creams and moisturisers.
According to a study published by the International Journal of Naturopathic Medicine, repeated application of castor oil on your skin may help to reduce surface tension stress and improve elasticity.
While the benefits of including castor oil into your regime are umpteen, let us look at five big reasons why its a miracle worker for your skin.
5 Reasons To Use Castor Oil For Skincare
1. Helps to Treat Discolouration:
According to research conducted by the Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, applying castor oil twice daily helps subside the symptoms of infra-orbital hyperpigmentation, a skin condition identified by brownish discolouration of the skin due to sun exposure, stress and sleep deprivation. It helps and encourages glutathione production in the liver, an anti-oxidant which is a dermatology favourite for its commendable anti-melanogenic powers. Moreover, it also contains carotenoids that help increase the skin’s resistance to UV rays and reduces the chances of sun damage.
2. Remarkable Anti-Inflammatory Superpowers:
Castor oil consists of many active compounds, like oleic acid, stearic acid and palmitic acid, which help to reduce inflammation that can be caused due to environmental factors like sunlight, temperature, etc. It has a deep penetrating formulation that releases oxidative stress trapped within the skin cells and aids in reducing intrinsic and extrinsic inflammation.
3. Rich Source of Anti-Oxidants:
Castor oil is a rich source of tocopherols, which have potent anti-ageing and anti-proliferative properties that help neutralise the free radicals in your body. Moreover, it also acts as a natural sealant and prevents moisture loss from the dermal layers due to external stress.
4. Helps To Treat Wounds:
Castor oil is also an excellent remedy for cut, wound and acne scars. In fact, even open wounds and bruises can be treated using castor oil as the ricinoleic acid present in it prevents the accumulation of dead skin cells and has analgesic properties that help to elevate pain. Moreover, it also helps increase localised blood flow to the affected area and encourages platelet and thrombin formation, thereby reducing the risk of infections.
5. Prevents Chapping And Flaking:
Castor oil is a treasure trove of vitamin E, omega and ricinoleic fatty acids that help to prevent excessive dehydration of the skin by replenishing oils present in the protective barrier of the epidermal cells, making the skin potent enough to battle bacterial and fungal invasion.
