Why castor oil is a must-have for hair growth and skin glow: Tips to use, benefits, and more |

Castor oil has proven to be a natural wonder for healthy, thick, and shiny hair and skin. It is full of nutrients that nourish and hydrate the scalp, as well as improve the strength of hair from root to tip. Castor oil has been used in traditional medicine, skin care, and hair care for centuries. It also provides health benefits for the face or skin, like managing acne, moisturising, and reducing inflammation. Castor oil is a great source for improving scalp health, essentially for promoting hair growth. Let us find out how to use castor oil and why it’s beneficial.

What is castor oil?

Source: Canva

Castor oil, not popularly known by everyone, is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). It is rich in ricinoleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid that gives castor oil its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is also used in hair and skin care products, with potential benefits for skin health.

How to use castor oil for hair growth?

Mix it with other oilsCastor oil has a very thick consistency. Mix it with other light oils coconut oil, jojoba, or almond oil, to improve its spreadability and reduce thickness. This mix provides balanced nourishment and hydration

Source: Canva

Scalp massageRegular scalp massages with castor oil can improve circulation and relax the scalp muscles. This promotes hair growth and reduces stress-related hair fall.Hair masksYou can prepare your hair mask to promote growth and scalp health. Mix castor oil with honey, aloe vera, or essential oils, like rosemary or peppermint, for amazing results. Pre-shampoo treatmentBefore shampoo, apply warm castor oil directly to your scalp and hair. Massage gently for 5-10 minutes to stimulate blood flow. Live it on for at least 30 minutes for deep conditioning. Wash thoroughly with a mild shampoo.

Tips to achieve the best results with castor oil:

Top benefits of castor oil for hair

1. Stimulates hair growthCastor oil deeply nourishes hair, and its unique fatty acid content strengthens roots, reducing hair thinning and breakage.2. Conditions hairCastor oil acts as a natural conditioner that locks in moisture. It smooths the hair cuticles, reduces frizz, and leaves hair soft and manageable.

Source: Canva

3. Prevents hair fall and breakageThe antioxidants and fatty acids in castor oil help repair damaged hair and reduce split ends. Regular application strengthens hair strands and prevents hair fall caused by breakage.4. Prevents scalp infections and dandruffCastor oil’s antimicrobial properties help combat fungal infections and dandruff, promoting a healthier scalp environment. It soothes itchiness. 5. Adds shine and volumeUsing castor oil regularly can enhance the natural shine of your hair while adding volume and thickness.

How castor oil can treat your skin better

Treat acne: Castor oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, which may help treat and prevent acne

Source: Medical News Today

Improve skin texture and complexion: The fatty acids in castor oil might help to cleanse, moisturise, and hydrate the skin, and promote healthy pores Heal chapped lips: Castor seed oil can be used as a source to heal chapped lips Heal wounds: Ricinoleic acid, present in castor oil, may help promote wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Reduce dark circles: Creams containing castor oil as an ingredient appeared to be an effective treatment alternative for infraorbital hyperpigmentationAlso read | Say goodbye to frizzy hair this monsoon: 10 easy ways to keep them smooth and healthy