Castor oil was used six thousand years ago (4000b.c) in ancient Egypt to protect eyes from irritation. 

As well as use in facial oils and in lamps. 

Fast forward to 2021 and we’re still using castor oil for a wide range of natural health purposes. 

Castor oil is made out of castor beans taken from the castor plant (Ricinus communis).

The castor plant is native to East Africa and thrives in warm regions. 

A fun fact about castor beans is that the botanical name Ricinus is Latin for tick, and the second word Communis is Latin for common. 

Castor beans look like a common tick.

The seeds or beans in their natural state are poisonous thanks to the protein lectin. However, extraction of the oil in warm temperatures makes castor oil completely safe. 

Castor oil is used in medical settings as a laxative when patients require an abdominal x-ray. Best taken on an empty stomach, castor oil is fast-acting and produces a laxative effect within two to six hours. 

Castor oil has many uses both internally and externally. 

While castor oil can induce labour, be used during menstruation externally and be applied to bumps, cuts and bruises. Does castor oil really help hair growth? Let’s find out…

Using Castor Oil for Hair Growth

Many people use castor oil in their scalp, eyebrows and eyelashes to promote hair growth. Castor oil is a fatty acid that provides essential proteins and nutrients to hair follicles. Preventing 

hair follicle inflammation (Folliculitis) usually caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. This can lead to permanent hair loss or scarring. Folliculitis can be avoided by wearing loose clothing, avoiding shaving, and using clean hot tubs and pools. Hair expert Bridgette Hill (A.K.A The Scalp Therapist) states that castor oil can prevent hair follicle inflammation. 

Castor oil dilates blood vessels increasing nutrient flow to the root of the hair. Castor oil indirectly promotes hair growth by creating a healthy environment for the hair and scalp. As a natural moisturiser, castor oil can be used to promote hydration of the skin. If you have a dry scalp or dandruff, then castor oil is your friend. Applying castor oil to your scalp once a month can lubricate the hair shaft, strengthening the hair and increasing flexibility. 

How Often Should You Use Castor Oil for Hair Growth?

If you’ve patch tested and you’re not sensitive to castor oil, then you can use it once a week, once a fortnight or once a month. It’s not advisable to use it more than once a week because residue can build up in your scalp. If you’re using castor oil to treat hair loss, then you’ll need to apply it more frequently – up to four times a week. You can apply a loading dose of castor oil by doing it every couple of days for the first few weeks, before dropping down to a couple of times a month. 

You don’t need lots of castor oil for your hair, three tablespoons should suffice. Then two tablespoons of your chosen mixer oil. The essential oils rosemary and peppermint stimulate hair growth. Rosemary has been used successfully in research studies to increase hair counts in men. Another natural ingredient that has been proven to promote hair growth is Saw Palmetto. Saw palmetto can be used internally or externally, along with castor oil, to increase hair density by up to 60%. 

Applying Castor Oil, Directly on Hair (or Not?)

While you can apply castor oil directly to your scalp, it’s quite a thick sticky substance. Diluting the castor oil with another oil can make it easier to apply. Commonly people use jojoba oil or coconut oil along with castor oil. You can also try avocado oil or hemp oil. Make sure to choose organic products where possible. You can also add a few drops of essential oil to make the smell of your hair mask more pleasant. 

It’s a good idea to warm up the castor oil mixture before applying it. This will make it even easier to apply. Plus it feels nice on your head! Warm up the oil by placing the jar of castor oil in a large bowl and filling it with warm water. Leave the jar in hot water for two to five minutes, ensuring that no water gets into the oil. Once warm you can pour the oil into a bowl, dropper or a bottle with a nozzle for easy application. 

How long should I leave castor oil in my hair?

Castor oil should be left on your hair for 30 minutes to three hours. If you put a shower cap on, you can keep it on overnight. It’s a good idea to put on a shower cap in any case. If you wrap a warm towel around the cap to enhance the effects. You can simply soak your towel in warm water, wring it out then wrap it around your head on top of your shower cap.

Continue a regular practice of castor oil masks for your hair for maximum effect. You probably won’t see effects overnight. However, if you’re consistent and apply it once or twice a week for a month, then you should begin to see improvements in your hair. Castor oil most likely won’t make a difference in healthy hair, it’s best applied on nutrient deficient, dry or damaged hair. 

In Conclusion

If your hair is thinning or in need of a boost, then castor oil hair masks could be the answer. It’s not an overnight fix but applied consistently, castor oil hair masks can do wonders for your hair. Especially for those lacking in nutrition. People with thick, healthy hair need not use castor oil regularly, if ever. Castor oil hair masks can thicken thinning hair and promote healthy hair growth. 

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