The Many Uses of Castor Oil
If you have ever taken castor oil as a
child, you'll know just how unpleasant it can be. And while you may not
enjoy its taste, it's actually pretty nutritious. This medicinal
concoction is filled with Vitamin E, making it a suitable remedy for a
number of other things (which don't require you to take it orally). It
is also packed with proteins, minerals and has anti-fungal and
antibacterial properties.
As this list will come to show, there are a
number of seemingly abnormal uses for this medicine - some of which
will surely surprise you!
Use it to relieve arthritis pain
To get some relief from pain caused by arthritis, massage castor oil
onto those achy joints. For added benefits, create a paste by mixing
some castor oil with turmeric or cayenne pepper. Be sure to keep it away
from your eyes, particularly if using cayenne pepper.
Use it to promote hair growth
Whether you want thicker hair, or would like to cover up a balding area
on your scalp, massage some castor oil into the area for about 6 minutes
every day to promote natural hair growth. It can also be used on the
eyebrows. For a thicker brow line, just massage a few drops for a couple
of minutes every day.
Use it to promote healthy bowels
Ingesting castor oil is a great way to alleviate constipation. On this
note, however, caution is advised - the oil does work extremely well as a
laxative. Simply mix a teaspoon into orange or cranberry juice each
morning to keep your bowels working regularly.
Use it to remove warts and skin tags
To remove unsightly warts and skin tags, opt for castor oil. Just apply
the oil to the wart or skin tag every day for a few weeks - you should
begin to see the mark disappear. Unfortunately, castor oil will not work
on moles, so be sure you know what you are trying to remove before
using it.
Use it to perk up ferns
If your ferns haven't been looking their best, a mixture including
castor oil will perk them right up. Just combine a tablespoon of the oil
with 4 cups of warm water and a tablespoon of baby shampoo. Drip about 3
tablespoons into the soil around the fern, then follow with regular
water.
Use it to relieve calluses and corns
When applied directly to the affected area, castor oil will help get rid
of calluses. Simply massage a bit of the oil into the corns to help
alleviate the pain and the swelling that they cause. Though it may take a
couple of applications, you will see them disappear over time.
Use it to promote healthy skin
One of its lesser-known uses, castor oil works wonderfully at
eliminating and preventing wrinkles. It is also ideal for pregnant women
- rubbing castor oil onto the skin can help improve elasticity and
prevent stretch marks caused by pregnancy. For a youthful glow, just
apply it directly to your skin.
Use it to relieve pain from scratches
To relieve pain from scratches and other abrasions, opt for castor oil.
Simply add a few drops to your scratches, allowing the healing
properties of the oils to heal them. Castor oil is also a great option
for treating ringworm and other fungal ailments.
Use it to relieve sore muscles
Castor oil makes for a wonderful massage oil that can be used to
alleviate sore muscles. Just apply it to the affected area and massage.
It may also be used as an oil for general massages - due to its Vitamin E
content, it is great for your skin.
Use it to treat hemorrhoids
Castor oil is great at shrinking hemorrhoids and alleviating the pain
and itching that they cause. Simply soak a cotton ball in the oil and
apply it to your hemorrhoids. You may leave the cotton ball for about 15
minutes or so. It is important to note, however, that this only works
for hemorrhoids that are outside the body.
Use it to treat insomnia
If you've been suffering from sleepless nights of late, castor oil is an
effective remedy. Just rub a bit on your eyelids before getting into
bed (make sure that you don't actually get any in your eyes). The castor
oil will help bring about a peaceful night's sleep and will have you
feeling refreshed in the morning.
Use it to soothe tired eyes
In removing tiredness from around the eyes, castor oil works much like
petroleum jelly. Before you go to bed at night, rub a little around your
eyes and just a tad on your eyelashes, allowing the oil to soak in
overnight, leaving you looking and feeling a little more refreshed in
the morning. Again, just be careful not to get it in your eyes.