Rightly called ‘healing oil for all purposes’ due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Castor oil is effective in alleviating a variety of skin complaints.
‘C’ for Healthy Skin
Content of vitamin C in guava is 4-fold higher than that of oranges. So, make sure to include guavas in your diet to keep the skin young and radiant.
Castor oil is obtained from the seeds of the castor oil plant, and has plenty of health benefits. Its remarkable healing abilities can treat a variety of conditions naturally. This unique substance has been thoroughly investigated for its medicinal use and is recommended for the treatment of gastrointestinal problems like dysentery and constipation. More importantly, it is a popular healing agent for various skin problems.
Using castor oil is one of the best ways to maintain the beauty of the skin for years to come. Applying it on a regular basis is an easy way to prevent appearance of wrinkles that occur with age. Jam packed with skin friendly ingredients, castor oil can certainly help to increase the lifespan of your youthful skin.
Why to Use Castor Oil
Castor oil is an excellent source of essential nutrients such as vitamin E, antioxidants and minerals that boost skin health. All these nutrients are abundantly found in healthy meals. However, only a small amount of nutrients from food are absorbed by the skin. Hence, external application of natural moisturizers such as castor oil that nourish the skin from within is recommended.
Castor Oil for Skin
Castor oil contains triglyceride fatty acids that are well-known for their antiviral and antibacterial properties. The topical application of castor oil is very effective in curing skin infections. People suffering from skin inflammation, itching and skin irritation, are often advised to use castor oil to ease the discomfort. Keratene ( benign skin growth) can also be treated by applying Castor oil over the affected part.
For Dry Skin
Castor oil is a natural remedy for dry skin. The triglyceride fatty acids present in Castor oil helps the skin to restore the natural moisture balance, thus preventing unnecessary dryness. When used in winter it prevents the skin from drying up. People with cracked ankles or dry skin on the feet should massage castor oil over the affected portion and then soak them in hot water for some time for softer skin.
For Acne
Castor oil can also be helpful in treating acne. It can control acne and even clear up the skin. Topical application of this oil can improve the skin’s appearance. Castor oil is an active ingredient of anti-acne soap bars that help moisturize and purify the skin. The oil has the ability to heal skin quickly. Massaging with Castor oil can eliminate rashes, blemishes and acne.
The antibacterial activity of castor oil comes from ricinoleic acid, an important compound present in this viscous liquid. Ricinoleic acid is categorized as a omega 9 fatty acid that is found to be lethal weapon against viruses and bacteria. It is extremely effective when it comes to restricting growth of harmful microbes. Hence, topical application of castor oil can work wonders to get rid of acne.
For Warts
If warts are giving you sleepless nights then it’s time you opt for castor oil. Ricinoleic acid acts as a natural antiviral drug and so whether it’s deep plantar warts or common warts, one can certainly expect positive results from usage of castor oil. For usage, applying a band-aid soaked in castor oil on the infected area at night and remove it in the morning. Repeat this everyday till the wart heals completely.
For Skin Moles
Moles can appear anywhere on the skin and are in various shapes and sizes. Usually black or brown in color, they can be removed by expensive surgical methods. One of the many natural remedies involve the usage of castor oil. A paste made from a pinch of baking soda and small amount of castor oil is applied on the affected part and kept overnight. This helps to get rid of moles after regular application.
For Fungal Infections
Ricinoleic acid, present in castor oil, is effective in inhibiting yeast growth. So, if you are looking for an easy home remedy for skin fungal infections like athlete’s foot then use this natural antifungicide. Stubborn infections such as toenail fungus can also be treated successfully with castor oil. For skin diseases, a cloth is soaked in Castor oil and the affected area is then wrapped with this cloth and left overnight.
Caution
Castor oil that is minimally processed is the one beneficial for your skin. The refining process rob off the essential nutrients of castor oil. The refining process involves heating the oil, which kills its nutrients. So, applying refined castor oil would be of little use to enhance skin health. Instead, go for cold pressed castor oil as most of the nutrients are not lost and its medicinal value remains intact.
Oil that is to be used in skin care must be of the highest quality. The same is applicable to castor oil. You can go to a drugstore or a local health food store to buy this oil for topical use. A large bottle of castor oil is quite inexpensive and can last for years depending on the usage.
